09/01/2026
In loving memory of our student Mila Smallwood. 🖤🥋
Yesterday, we heard the terrible news that one of the brightest smiles to ever step onto our mat had passed away.
Mila bravely battled Diffuse anaplastic Wilms tumor which is a rare type of kidney cancer. Throughout her journey, she continued to show us what strength, determination, and heart truly look like. We will forever miss the smile she brought to every practice and the joy she shared with her classmates.
Even while going through chemotherapy, Mila would still come to class just to watch her teammates. She wanted to be there to cheer them on, to be part of the team, and to watch everyone train. Every time, she would tell us that she’d be back on the mats soon. She never stopped believing that she would return.
Mila would always tell us, “I’m not going to try to be a black belt. I’m going to become one.” And that was Mila. She didn’t just dream about what she wanted to become, she believed in it. She had an incredible drive and a love for her classmates that was impossible not to notice.
Mila was so much more than a student. She was a teammate, a friend, and a part of our Tiger Kang family. Her courage and beautiful spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
To all of the families who supported Mila and the Smallwood family throughout her fight-through donations, prayers, messages, and acts of kindness, thank you. Your support meant more than words can express.
We ask that the Tiger Kang community continue to surround the Smallwood family with love, prayers, and support during this incredibly difficult time.
Mila, you fought with everything you had. You showed us what it means to be strong, even when things were impossibly hard. Your place on our mat will always be yours, and your memory will forever be a part of our Tiger Kang family.
You said you were going to become a black belt. We believe you did. 🥋🖤
Rest peacefully, Mila. We love you, we will miss you, and we will never forget you.🧡🙏
