April 13, 2018 marked the passing of Riley Rose Sherman, a 6-year-old La Quinta resident, who suffered from a rare form of a cancerous tumor called neuroblastoma.

Her passing occurred in a Texas hospital, after bravely fighting off cancer twice with two remissions. In her short time here, Riley became an important part of the community in the Coachella Valley.

Through the Facebook page, “Riley Rose’s Journey,” almost ten thousand people followed her fight against cancer. More than $70,000 were raised through her YouCaring crowdfunding page.

Her loss was felt deeply by many, especially by the members of the Sacred Heart parish, who have supported the Sherman family throughout their ordeal. The Sherman family has expressed their gratitude for the community and have stated that they are very glad to have their faith, as it has allowed them to stay strong during this fight and even strengthen their beliefs along the way.

It is because of this faith that her family has been able to accept Riley’s passing and the fact that she is no longer in pain. Her family continues to speak about her bravery and kindness throughout the battle, staying positive. She was described as having a “fun, loving spirit.”

Most recently, Riley Rose was honored at Stagecoach during a performance by Garth Brooks. Riley Rose’s funeral was held on May 1 at Sacred Heart Church, followed by a celebration of her life later that day at Southwest Church. Her family has since committed to raising $1 million to combat and find a cure for neuroblastoma. ­­­­­