Stories
A Journey of Courage and Family Bonds
In the face of adversity, the Blackwell’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and family. Goodness Village is honored to provide a comforting oasis during their darkest hours.
At just 9 years old, Max Blackwell faced a terrifying leukemia diagnosis, setting the stage for a relentless three-year battle. By August 2020, Max, his dad Jeff, his mom Dee, and his younger brother Tyson celebrated his victory over cancer. He returned to normal life – school, music, and academic success.
Fast forward to May 2023, nearly six years to the day from the initial diagnosis, and Max approached his parents with a lump on his neck. A few weeks later, they received the heart-wrenching news that Max’s cancer had relapsed. This devastating news came at a time when Max’s mother, Dee, was battling her own cancer, having recently undergone a double mastectomy.
Max’s path to recovery would now involve a bone marrow transplant. After 28 days of intensive treatment, Max achieved remission, making him eligible for the transplant. But first, they needed to find a donor.
It was then that 14-year-old Tyson, Max’s younger brother, stepped forward to be his brother’s donor. Dee described Tyson’s bravery, saying, “Tyson never wavered, he was there and all in, 100%. He will always be a hero in my eyes.” Tyson underwent a successful stem cell harvesting procedure, while Max was admitted to the hospital to prepare for the gift of life from his younger brother.
During these trying times, the Blackwell family finds comfort in their Goodness Village apartment. “Spending countless days and nights in a hospital can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. Goodness Village offers respite for my husband and me as we alternate between our son’s bedside and caring for our younger child at the apartment. It allows us to briefly escape the hospital environment and regain a sense of normalcy.”
On September 29th, transplant day marked a fresh start for the family. Currently, they await news of the transplant’s success, with their Goodness Village apartment serving as a sanctuary for rest between hospital stays.
The Blackwells anticipate needing their Goodness Village apartment even after Max’s inpatient discharge, as daily monitoring remains crucial. They feel the apartment will help him transition back to normalcy.
Staying near the hospital during a medical crisis isn’t a luxury, it’s a requirement! Join us in supporting families like the Blackwells. From now until December 31st, your contribution will be doubled thanks to our generous matching donor. Together, we can keep families within arm’s reach of the hospital during their medical treatment. Help us reach our $100,000 goal by December 31st by donating at www.goodnessvillage.org/donate