Dexter, Missouri - The outpouring of support and love has amazed Riley Jo Rickman as she sits at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis "taking care of business" and getting treatments for her recently diagnosed Leukemia.

She wanted to let everyone know how thankful she is so she wrote a letter yesterday and with the help of her friend, Krysta Winstead, it was read to a packed Bearcat Event Center during the half-time show of the boys final home game tonight.

The following paragraphs are from the heart as only Riley could write:

"Since being diagnosed with leukemia 5 short days ago, God's overwhelming love has surrounded me and my family. Something that was meant to tear me down has only made me shine brighter and there is absolutely no way that I could say that without this community. Our small, but mighty town has rallied around me in an unbelievable way. There is absolutely no way to thank you for all that you have done to make this easier for me and my family but I can try. So thank you, so much, for everything."

"This town and this team have the power to do anything. So kick butt, take names, and get a little sassy tonight Bearcats."

With all my love,
Riley Jo