Makayla Campbell is only 20 years old but if she were 120 years old, she still would not have the words to express her appreciation for those who have supported her and her family with their prayers and many gifts of kindness during her battle with cancer.

“I don’t know enough words to thank people enough,” Makayla said. “When something like this happens, you find out how many friends you have. You find out that you have a bigger family – people that care about you – than you ever imagined.

“I thank everybody for all they have done for us, especially for the prayers. I just don’t know how to say how much it means to me. People with cancer aren’t different. They are special because people make us feel special.”

A benefit auction and singing was held for the Campbell family at Cattleman Park Saturday afternoon.

Dwight Berry, who organized the event, expressed appreciation to all the groups that donated their time and talents to the event. The Benton Brothers and Company, 4-Given and the Down Home Boys were the featured bands.

“We want to also thank all of those who donated items for the auction and those who bid so generously,” Berry said. “This family has been through a lot and we wanted to do something to let them know how much people care.”

Makayla was diagnosed with a brain tumor in November. Following the surgery to remove the tumor, Makayla did well until March when her system shut down and she was in critical condition and was non-responsive for almost a month. She received chemotherapy and radiation and is now recovering at home and doing well.

Makayla said nobody wants to get cancer and she’s not mad that she got cancer nor does she try to understand why she got it.

“When you get cancer, there’s nothing you can do but just go with it,” she said. “It’s a challenge and you have to take one day at time.”

But Makayla is looking forward to the day that she can ride her horse, Specs, and “get back to the auction.”

Her dad, Cowboy Campbell, is the face of the South Alabama Stockyards and she’s his right-hand girl.

“I love animals and I work the out-gates at the auction,” Makayla said. “I want to get back out there so I’m doing everything I’m supposed to do and I also do things to help improve my memory – brain games. And, for fun, I watch TV. Andy Griffith, I love that show. I watch programs like Walker Texas Ranger – old stuff. I miss being out but I’m just so thankful that I’m where I am today and that I can look forward to getting back on my horse and working with my dad and going to the stockyards. That makes me happy to think about that.”