FRIENDSWOOD, Texas -- The Friendswood family of a 13-year-old girl who was diagnosed with breast cancer is struggling to make ends meet, KPRC Local 2 reported Wednesday.

Katelyn Weatherford diligently did algebra problems throughout the interview, punching at the keys on her calculator with complete focus. Her determination is not a surprise for a 13-year-old who is doing ninth-grade math as a seventh-grader and is a straight-A student, all while participating in 4-H and her true passion -- softball.

It's hard to believe that less than a year ago, Weatherford was diagnosed with breast cancer at 12 years old.  Doctors said it is exceedingly rare for someone so young to have the disease.

"When I found out, it kind of brought tears to my eyes," said Weatherford. "But, then again, I was mad and saying no it's not true."

Weatherford eventually underwent a six and a half hour surgery to cut out the seven masses found in her chest and has been cancer free since August, but her mother still worries around the clock for her only child.

"It's been really stressful," said Melissa Edwards.  "Worrying everyday she's in school if something happens and she falls."

The stress has taken a toll on Edwards's health. Edwards was just released from the hospital Monday night after suffering two heart attacks over the weekend.

"They [doctors] said it was all stress-induced," said Edwards.

Medical bills have left the family strapped for cash, while Melissa's husband, Charles, was recently laid off and is desperately looking for work.  On top of their troubles, the family said they are behind on their rent and need $2,400 by Friday or they will be evicted.

"I want to cry all the time because I don't know what to do," said Melissa Edwards.

The neighborhood is reaching out the Edwards and trying to raise money.  A nearby church is starting the "24/24 Challenge," in hopes of encouraging 24 members of the congregation to donate $100.

In the meantime, the Edwards' are holding on to hope and not focusing on the future.

"We can just get through this and live one day at a time," said Melissa Edwards.

Donations for Weatherford's family may be sent to the following address:

Comerica Bank
Attention: Armando
19415 Gulf Freeway
Webster, TX 77598-2804