Meet a Miracle Kid – Max!

We have families that go above and beyond to share how Stormont Vail’s programs and services have helped them. When you give to Children’s Miracle Network at Stormont Vail Health, you’re helping kids like Max, one of our miracle kids. Each day, 43 families in the United States will hear the words “your child has cancer.” In September, groups across the world focus their attention on pediatric cancer by mobilizing during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month; we want to join the movement and celebrate Max, his family, and their strength. Check out Max’s story below!

On a typical Tuesday evening, Max was eating supper with his mom when he told her he wasn’t feeling well. Upon sneezing, Max’s nose began to bleed uncontrollably, and continued for the next two hours. After being admitted to Stormont Vail Health, and undergoing numerous tests, Max’s parents were told he had leukemia. He was 2 ½ years old.

For the next three years, Max underwent chemo and steroid treatments, while his parents took turns staying home from work to be with him. It was a long journey back to health, but Max was strong and never gave up.  Neither did his parents.

Max was treated at Stormont Vail Health partly because of one doctor’s extraordinary actions.  The first night at the hospital, the doctors were having trouble putting in his pic line. They headed to radiology and, amidst the chaos, Max lost his pacifier. As they were frantically looking for it, the doctor left the hospital, went to a local grocery store, and bought him the exact one he lost.

Today, Max is cancer free! He is a passionate and excited 8-year-old. When he grows up, Max wants to be a scientist, chef, race car driver, and rock-star, all at the same time. He loves to draw, play soccer, and also play games! He is excited to join thousands of gamers this fall who will be playing games through Extra Life in support of their local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Extra Life gamers register to play at extra-life.org, and encourage family and friends to play games with them or donate to the cause. They then choose a date to play games for 24-hours, raising funds every hour to help kids like Max get better. Max will be at our local Extra Life gaming marathons on October 19 (at Huscarl Hobbies and Games) and November 2 (at various locations). To find out more, please reach out at 785.357.2838.