29°
It all began last year when Brittney complained of an earache. Her parents — Elena and Brian Bliss — assumed it was nothing more than an ear infection and took her to see a physician, but after some tests, doctors came back with a devastating diagnosis.
Her treatment began right away. And despite the rigorous chemotherapy and radiation sessions over the next year, Brittney never gave up or gave in to her illness, her obituary said.
She remained the sweet and caring girl who could beguile a stranger with her smile and enjoyed having dance parties in the kitchen with her family.
Though her life was short, she made a lasting impression on all that were blessed to know her. Brittney had a light that shined so bright, she had the most beautiful smile and the bluest eyes that sparkled, her laugh could brighten any dark day. She gave the best eyebrow rubs and wasn't afraid to let you know who the boss was. She was the sweetest little girl with just a dash of sass, was smart beyond her years and had the best comedic timing.
In the weeks leading up to her fifth birthday, Brittney's parents asked for cards and well-wishes, and within days their P.O. Box was inundated with mail from across the country. They received cards from all 50 states shortly before she died, her mother, Elena Bliss, told MassLive.
Her parents spent the past month reading them to her — something Brittney loved very much, they said.
Brittney's grandparents created a GoFundMe to help cover the cost of her treatment and her parents' bills. Brian and Elena were not working to focus on their daughter's health, the description said.
It raised more than $23,300 of its $25,000 goal from nearly 350 donors. The family posted updates on her progress on the campaign.
Elena Bliss shared the news of her passing on the fundraising site last week.
She deserved so much more than this! She was suppose to start kindergarten this fall, we should have been able to watch her grow up, see her sister graduate next year, and just be a kid!Sadly she will now be forever 5, but the joy and love she received leading up to her birthday was extraordinary. Thank you to everyone that sent her a card or gift, it truly was a bright light during this past month.I pray that my mom wrapped her in the biggest hug and takes care of our girl, till the day we meet again.
Her family laid her to rest on Tuesday, June 13.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Amherst and receive free news updates.
