#RallyKid Maddox's Fundraiser
Join us in supporting the Rally Foundation, where every donation fuels groundbreaking research and vital support programs for children battling cancer and their families. Your generosity is a lifeline, bringing us closer to a world where childhood cancer is no longer a threat.
Maddox's Story
Maddox’s journey began in August 2018 when we noticed a lump under his left jawline. The pediatrician initially thought it was a swollen lymph node from an infection and prescribed antibiotics. An ultrasound confirmed it was a swollen lymph node, but after a few weeks and additional tests, we were referred to an ENT. Despite normal lab results, the swelling persisted, prompting a biopsy on November 2nd.
That day, while at a restaurant, I received a call with the shocking news: Maddox had cancer. We were told to return to the ER immediately for more tests and to meet with an oncologist. Maddox, who had been seemingly healthy and active, had no symptoms beyond the swollen lymph node.
The next day, Maddox was admitted to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Scottish Rite for tests, including X-rays, an EKG, an echocardiogram, more labs, and a bone marrow biopsy. On Tuesday, the diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) was confirmed. Maddox also had surgery to place a power port for chemotherapy, which began that week along with a month of steroids.
In the first eight months, Maddox underwent weekly chemotherapy infusions and lumbar punctures to administer chemotherapy to his spine. He was hospitalized again due to compromised immune function. In addition to hospital visits, he took chemotherapy pills at home and had multiple steroid pulses. His treatment continued until January 11, 2022. Midway through that year, research led to a change in protocol. Instead of infusions and steroid pulses every 4 weeks, new findings showed that administering them every 12 weeks achieved the same results with less toxicity and side effects. This update was a significant relief.
Maddox is now 2½ years off treatment and officially considered a SURVIVOR! His recent survivor clinic appointment confirmed he is still cancer-free. While it is overwhelming to consider potential lifelong side effects from the treatment, we remain hopeful and dedicated to raising awareness and supporting the Rally Foundation until better treatments with fewer side effects are found.
By making a donation, you are directly supporting childhood cancer research through the Rally Foundation.
Your donation will contribute to the ongoing efforts to develop better treatments with fewer long-term side effects, and ultimately, find cures for young patients like Maddox. Stand with us in this critical cause and help bring hope to children and families battling cancer.