A seven-year-old girl who was badly hurt during a tornado earlier this month that killed her nine-year-old sibling got an incredible gift from Donald and Melania Trump.
Avalinn Rackley reacted in a video taken by a relative when she opened gifts from the Trumps after her older sister Annistyn was killed by a storm event that also destroyed the family home in Caruthersville, Mo., Dec. 10.
“These boxes came in the mail, and they are from…President Trump! Both of these boxes. Can you believe it?” her grandmother can be heard saying in the video clip.
“Oh my God!” Avalinn shouted with excitement.
“Donald and Melania Trump sent a package! They got hats signed by Donald Trump, Presidential blankets, American Girl Dolls, books signed by President Trump and Melania, pens, bracelets and so much more!” the dad said in a social media post.
“We are so encouraged by the strength and determination you have shown during this very difficult time. You will remain in our hearts for complete care and comfort as you continue to recover,” said a letter from the Trumps that accompanied the gifts.
“With your steadfast spirit, and the unwavering strength and support of your wonderful family and many friends, your future potential is limitless,” the letter added.
Donald & Melania Trump sent gifts to 7-year-old Avalinn Rackley who was injured in the tornado that killed her 9-year-old sister.
— Joe Padula
Headline-Heartwarming moment seven-year-old Avalinn Rackley who was seriously injured by Missouri tornado which killed her sister squeals with delight as she receives boxes of Christmas gifts from Donald and Melania Trump.
— Ron Milner
The Rackley family tragically lost 9-yr-o Annistyn to last weekend’s storms. Her mother, Meghan is fighting for her life & her 7-y-o sister Avalinn is hospitalized w/injuries. Let’s lift them up in prayer & ask God to comfort & heal them as only He can.
— Franklin Graham
“It made my momma heart so happy to hear her say my name. She is such a strong fighter. She is going to continue to improve each and every day,” the father noted about his daughter in the Facebook post.
“The tornado that swept away the girls’ Caruthersville home flung them, their 3-year-old sister Alanna and their parents – Meghan and Trey – into a field, killing 9-year-old Annistyn and severely wounding Avalinn and Meghan,” the Daily Mail reported.
“The plight of the Rackley family captured the nation’s attention when a photo of Avalinn and her sisters taking shelter in their bathroom went viral after more than 30 tornadoes rampaged through Kentucky, Missouri and three other states in early December, killing at least 90 people. Sadly, their attempt at the shelter did not succeed, with horrific tragedy ensuing,” the report continued.
“Avalinn began a slow and steady stroll across her hospital room after a successful round of surgery for broken vertebrae, while family members cheered her on as they found hope amid their tragedy,” the outlet added.
“Avalinn left, was with her older sister Annistyn, 9, holding a doll in the bathtub, and little sister Alanna, 3, taking shelter in their bathroom when one of more than 30 tornadoes destroyed their Caruthersville home. Annistyn was killed in the tornado,” the report said.