TAMPA, Fla. — Community leader Tonya Lewis is a real-life energizer bunny.
What You Need To Know
Children With a Vision founder Tonya Lewis is one of four being honored at the annual MLK Parade Gala in Tampa
Lewis was diagnosed with cervical cancer for the second time in September. She documents her journey online to inspire others
A Fish Fry and BBQ will be held on Saturday, Jan. 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to raise money for Lewis’ medical and household expenses. The fundraiser will be at 4015 E. Hillsborough Ave.
To follow Lewis’ journey, click here
“She does some of everything, she all over the place,” said community partner Derrick Engram.
Lewis runs a nonprofit, Children with a Vision. For more than 30 years, she has been dedicated to helping the community — whether it’s giving away food, back-packs or celebrating grandparents.
“She has come through on so many levels, I can’t even explain to you,” said neighbor Sadie Ross.
For Lewis, it’s a good day when she can help. But not all days have been so good.
Back in September of last year, Lewis was diagnosed with cervical cancer for the second time. Her hospital bands sit on a pile on her computer desk.
“I was angry, because it wasn’t supposed to come back,” Lewis said. “After going through all that chemo, radiation, it wasn’t supposed to come back.”
Tonya Lewis said the hospital bills have been overwhelming. Now, the community is rallying to support her. (Spectrum Bay News 9/Dalia Dangerfield)
Yet, even through the anger, Lewis wanted to share her story online to inspire others. It hasn’t been easy, mentally or financially.
Lewis said the hospital bills have been overwhelming. Now, the community is rallying to support her. A fundraiser will be held Saturday, Jan. 10, to help offset some of the costs. A website has also been created for those who’d like to donate.
And while her health battle is far from over, Lewis wants to keep it moving by doing what she does best — helping others.
“It takes my mind off of everything,” Lewis said.
Her journey has inspired a community.
“Courageous woman, I can say that much,” Engram said. “Courageous.”
She is proving to the world, even when she is down, she is never out.
If you’d like to follow Lewis’ health journey, click here.
The Fish Fry & BBQ Dinner fundraiser will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 4015 E. Hillsborough Ave. in Tampa.