December 2024

“Ashley Chanel was confident, compassionate, creative and courageous. Even before cancer, Ashley was no stranger to adversity. On July 4, 2018, at the age of 11, Ashley became a victim of gun violence. This incident shook her, making future July 4ths a day she feared. After recovery, Ashley went on to speak out against gun violence and shared how it impacted her life and the lives of other children. She was featured alongside her mother, Cynthia […] in the R.I.P. T-Shirts Documentary in 2021 to talk about her experience as a survivor of gun violence. In January 2021, Ashley was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer. She experienced brief months of remission between many surgeries on her leg, chest and brain. Ashley fought long and hard even though the cancer continued to return. Ashley was determined to start her own business. She graduated from the Future Moguls Academy on April 15, 2023, where she presented her business plan for A.C. Hair Company. She was also a member of the D.C. Public Schools’ CEO Program – Competitive Employment Opportunities. Ashley was always a highly intelligent scholar, amazing dancer, competitive cheerleader, budding entrepreneur, a well-rounded and well-spoken young lady. So, it was no surprise when she made it clear to her mom and her school that she would attend school as much as she could; and that she wanted to be held accountable for her school assignments. While under hospice care, Ashley was determined to earn her high school diploma. Not only did Ashley graduate from Dunbar Senior High School, in Washington, DC on June 20, 2024, but she was ranked in the Top 10 of her senior class. Ashley was an inspiration; she was committed to overcoming every fight she faced. In her final moments Ashley directed all sad faces away from her. She showered her loved ones with jokes, laughter, and love as she reclaimed the day she previously feared and made it the day she was the strongest person in the room. With a smile on her face, Ashely asked to hear, “Scars to Your Beautiful”, by Alessia Cara and she sang for a while and then said, “I’m not quitting, I’m just tired” and she peacefully passed away at 12:06 AM on July 4th, 2024.”

— Ashley’s mother, Cynthia

JUST TRYAN IT provided Ashley an emergency relief grant to cover her funeral expenses.