In the world of cancer advocacy, we often talk about “the mission.” We speak about “Blood Cancer United” (formerly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) and their tireless dedication to funding lifesaving research, supporting patients and families, and advocating for better access to care.
But behind the clinical terms and the research grants are the stories of people like Amy King and Kelly Maddox, whose lives have been inextricably linked to this cause through love, loss, and survival.
A Legacy of Advocacy: Amy’s Story
For Amy King, the fight against pediatric cancer started long before it hit her own family. She grew up watching her father help found an organization to support children and families navigating these difficult diagnoses.
However, in 2015, the mission moved from her backyard into her heart. Her niece, Kaylee, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at just 18 months old.
“After 918 days of treatment, she is now 12 and thriving,” Amy shares. “Watching her endure treatment and overcome challenges solidified my commitment to this fight.”
A Lifelong Commitment: Kelly’s Story
Kelly’s connection began with a childhood loss, a close family friend taken by leukemia. That loss sparked a lifelong habit of donating blood in his honor. But the cycle of leukemia returned years later when her four-year-old nephew, Nolan, received his own ALL diagnosis.
For Kelly, being by Nolan’s side during those initial days of uncertainty wasn’t just about family; it was a reminder of how vital the community infrastructure, research funding and patient support, really is for survival.
The Goal: MAK-ing an Impact
Amy and Kelly have combined their histories and their hope to form Team MAK-ing an Impact. They aren’t just raising money; they are working to ensure that Blood Cancer United can continue providing the financial assistance and research grants that ensure no family faces a diagnosis alone.
How Your Support Helps
When you contribute to this campaign, you aren’t just hitting a fundraising goal. You are:
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Advancing Cures: Pushing toward a world where 918 days of treatment is a thing of the past.
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Supporting Families: Ensuring that the “uncertainty” Kelly felt is met with immediate resources.
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Showing Up: Standing in solidarity with the kids like Kaylee and Nolan who refuse to back down.
This campaign is about more than fundraising, it’s about showing up for those in the fight. Join Team MAK-ing an Impact today and help us turn “someday” into “today.”
Donate to the cause: The link will be live on March 19th Team IMPACT | Blood Cancer United
