Hundreds of friends, family members and strangers from throughout the Moshannon Valley gathered for a candlelight vigil and prayer service for a local girl battling leukemia on Friday night.

Family members told 6News that 6-year-old Emily Whitehead is battling acute lymphoblastic leukemia at Childrens’ Hospital of Philadelphia.

“She’s the bravest little girl I’ve ever known. She’s going to beat this,” said Emily’s Aunt, Denise Rowles.

Zachary Josefik organized the service at Cold Stream Dam after hearing about the Philipsburg girl’s battle with leukemia on social networking sites.

“Everybody wants to find a cure for cancer. It's just really amazing to help donate money and show their support,” said Josefik.

Emily’s parents have been keeping friends and family members updated on her progress through Facebook posts, and strangers have been posting messages of support that are trending on Twitter.

“Emily, you are the sweetest, cutest, strongest little six year old that I have ever known,” said Toni Gearhart. “I cannot wait until you get better so I can finally meet you and your wonderful family."

Emily’s uncle Jim Whitehead told 6News that his neice is still in critical condition but that family members are cautiously optimistic with the process of T-cell treatment.

"They've seen one miracle at CHOP before. And they told my brother hopefully there will be another one,” said Whitehead. “When you have support like that, it's beyond everything."

The Hope Volunteer Fire Department is holding a boot drive to raise money for the family along Route 322 in Philipsburg on Saturday morning, and the Mosquito Creek Sportsman Club is holding a BBQ Chicken benefit in Frenchville at noon for the Whitehead family.