At 3 years old, one amazing Oxford resident has had to battle more than most of us do in a lifetime. But through this battle, Mary Perkins' family truly knows what it is to be thankful this Thanksgiving.

The daughter of Oxford residents John and Kim Perkins, Mary was diagnosed with a brain tumor when she was only 2 1/2 years old. Since the tumor was detected, Mary has undergone two major surgeries, four rounds of induction chemotherapy and six weeks of radiation.

Though she will soon be undergoing maintenance chemotherapy, the Perkins family will be saying an extra prayer of thanks this Thanksgiving knowing that Mary's last scans have shown that their little girl is stable.

The Perkins also are thankful for all of the love they've felt over the past months.

"We are so thankful for all of the treatment, support and care," John Perkins said.

Perkins said that the support of their church — Faith Lutheran — and Relay for Life really helped them through this trying time.

The Make a Wish foundation also reached out to the Perkins family. The family recently traveled to Disney World for a week long, all expenses paid vacation from Make a Wish. Mary and her family were able to enjoy the Magic Kingdom, Sea World and Disney's Animal Kingdom.

They stayed at the nonprofit resort Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee Fla. The resort is designed to create a magical experience for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. The Perkins were able to enjoy putt-putt, a movie theater and free meals within the resort.

But thanks to the exceptional care provided by Mary's doctors, the Perkins pray that their daughter will remember the memories of their trip for many years to come.

"We've received the best care in the world at Cincinnati's Children's Hospital," John Perkins said.

Perkins said that Mary was cared for by leading doctors in the country — her neurosurgeon Dr. Kerry Crone and oncologist Dr. Lars Wagner. Perkins also said that anyone who wishes to support the family can donate blood at any area Hoxworth Blood Center.

But through their struggle, the Perkins are most thankful for Mary's Spirit.

"We feel very blessed to have a beautiful, bright daughter to help our family through this time," John Perkins said.