It’s a story that is equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming, a reminder of the strength of friendship and the beauty of selfless love. Two young girls, Finley Edwards and Everlee Benefield, both from Gadsden, Alabama, have bonded in a way that will last a lifetime. The bond they share was solidified in the most touching way just two days ago, when they both made a life-changing decision — to shave their heads in solidarity with each other.
Finley and Everlee have been the best of friends for as long as they can remember. Their families have known each other for years, with their mothers, Becca Edwards and Samantha Benefield, being best friends since childhood. Becca and Samantha met in second grade, graduated together from Hokes Bluff High School in 2009, and have supported each other through all of life’s milestones.
They both married, started families, and built lives filled with love and laughter. Their daughters grew up together, and the connection between Finley and Everlee is as deep as it gets.
“They are one in the same person,” Becca Edwards said, reflecting on the close bond between her daughter and Everlee. “Maybe it’s because me and Everlee’s mother are best of friends.”
But their friendship would soon be tested in ways neither family could have imagined. Just six weeks ago, Finley, who was six at the time, began complaining of headaches. What seemed like an ordinary issue at first soon became something far more serious.
After a series of tests, the Edwards family received the devastating diagnosis — Finley had B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. The diagnosis was confirmed on February 27, 2025, and Finley began chemotherapy the very next day.
For Becca and Adam Edwards, parents to four children under the age of 9, it was a whirlwind of emotions. “She faces two-and-a-half years of chemotherapy,” Becca explained, the weight of the words heavy on her heart. They knew that Finley’s journey would be difficult, but they also knew that she was strong — and with the love and support of her family, she would fight this battle with all her might.
As Finley began her chemotherapy, her best friend, Everlee, watched with a heavy heart. Everlee, eight years old, is a sweet soul with a deep sense of empathy. When Finley’s hair started to fall out in clumps, Everlee wanted to do something to show her friend that she was there for her. “If Finley is going to lose her hair, then I’m going to lose mine,” Everlee said to her parents, Samantha and Jordan.
It wasn’t a decision made lightly. “We had a heart-to-heart talk with Everlee about having her hair cut,” Samantha shared. “We knew it would be an emotional day for Finley, and we wanted to make sure Finley was OK with it.” The bond of friendship between these two girls was about to be tested in the most visible and profound way possible — by shaving their heads together.
Two days ago, the moment arrived. Finley, with bravery in her eyes and a smile on her face, sat still as her mother, Becca, carefully shaved the last remnants of her beautiful blonde hair. Finley’s bravery was evident, and her smile, though filled with the sadness of what was happening, was a testament to her inner strength. As Finley looked at her new reflection, it was time for Everlee to step up, too. Everlee sat patiently, her heart full of love for her friend, as her hair was shaved off in solidarity.
The sight of these two girls, sitting together in the quiet strength of their decision, was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. They are no longer just friends; they are sisters in arms, facing a battle together that no child should have to endure. The scene was touching in so many ways — a reminder of the purity of childhood, the power of friendship, and the beauty that lies in kindness and selflessness.
In a world that often places too much emphasis on appearance, Finley and Everlee’s decision serves as a powerful reminder that beauty comes from within. They both looked beautiful, not because of their hair, but because of the strength and love they share. Their smiles, their courage, and their bond are what truly define them — not their outward appearance. In that moment, the world saw what true beauty really looks like.
This story is a reminder to us all of the kindness of children and the incredible strength that comes from love and friendship. Finley and Everlee’s bravery in the face of such a difficult situation is inspiring, and their unwavering support for one another is a beacon of hope in a world that sometimes feels uncertain. The two girls have shown us that no matter the challenge, we can always find strength in the people we love, and we can always find beauty in the bonds that connect us.
As Finley continues her treatment and faces the journey ahead, she will carry with her the love and support of her best friend, Everlee, who has shown her that no battle is ever faced alone. Together, they are a force to be reckoned with, and their friendship will continue to inspire those who hear their story.
Let’s all take a moment to celebrate the courage of Finley and Everlee, two young girls who remind us all of the power of friendship, kindness, and the beauty of living life with love in our hearts.
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