Northwest Arkansas Rallies for Maci McCoy in Cancer Fight

In September 2023, the life of thirteen-year-old Maci McCoy from Kingston, Arkansas, changed dramatically when she was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of pediatric cancer. This diagnosis not only altered the course of her young life but also united her community in an outpouring of support, demonstrating the profound impact of childhood cancer awareness month.

September serves as a global reminder of the challenges faced by children with cancer and their families. According to research, advances in medical technology are improving the five-year survival rates for pediatric cancer patients, yet the emotional and physical toll remains significant.

It all began during a seemingly ordinary birthday celebration for Maci, who enjoyed a pool party with friends in her small town. Known for her active lifestyle, including sports and social events, Maci’s joyful year turned somber when she noticed a knot on her leg, initially dismissed as a minor sports injury by her mother, Jennifer McCoy.

Shortly after, a call from Kingston’s school signaled a shift. The school reported that Maci’s condition had worsened, prompting Jennifer to seek medical attention. The initial diagnosis of a hematoma quickly escalated when further symptoms appeared, leading to a CT scan that resulted in a referral to Northwest Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

At the hospital, an MRI confirmed the alarming news: doctors suspected cancer, necessitating a bone biopsy in Little Rock. Shortly thereafter, Jennifer received the grim diagnosis of Ewing’s Sarcoma, marking the beginning of a challenging journey.

According to recent statistics, over 290 children in the United States are diagnosed with cancer each week, highlighting the urgency of awareness campaigns like this. Jennifer reflected on her experience, stating, “You never think that your child is going to get a cancer diagnosis. Cancer doesn’t discriminate.”

Maci’s treatment involved 119 days in the hospital, including chemotherapy, a knee replacement, and radiation therapy. Throughout this time, the McCoy family faced numerous setbacks. Jennifer recounted how Maci experienced neurotoxicity and sepsis during her final chemotherapy round, requiring extensive IV antibiotics.

Despite these challenges, the family found solace in the community’s unwavering support. “It wasn’t just my kid, but it was like their kid too,” Jennifer noted, acknowledging the town’s collective investment in Maci’s well-being. The community organized various initiatives, including blood drives and fundraisers, to support the McCoy family during this tumultuous time.

In a heartwarming display of solidarity, residents of Benton County, alongside the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Mid-South Chapter, organized a celebration for Maci upon her completion of treatment. The event attracted over 100 attendees, illustrating the profound sense of unity among those who had followed her journey closely. “To just watch that many people come together and love on each other… I was in awe,” said Lisa Day, a volunteer with the foundation.

Maci’s resilience paid off when she rang the bell at Arkansas Children’s Hospital in October 2024, marking the conclusion of her radiation therapy. Following further tests, she celebrated another milestone: remission. The community embraced this moment of victory, having supported her through every step of the battle.

The Make-A-Wish event culminated in a trip to Hawaii for Maci, fulfilling a dream that symbolized hope and recovery. Reflecting on her experiences, Maci stated, “I would not take anything for granted again. A lot of people do not get the chance to do stuff that I still get to do now.”

As the McCoy family moves forward, they acknowledge that life will never return to the normalcy they once knew. Jennifer expressed gratitude for Maci’s survival, emphasizing, “In the end, it doesn’t matter. She’s still with us, and we’re trucking along.”

As October approaches, Maci will celebrate her one-year anniversary in remission, a testament to her strength and the support of a community that rallied around her during one of life’s most difficult battles.

For families facing similar challenges, numerous resources are available in Northwest Arkansas, including Hope Cancer Resources for financial assistance and support, and the Washington Regional Cancer Support Home, which provides housing and food security for those in need.

The McCoy family’s journey reflects not only the struggles associated with pediatric cancer but also the remarkable strength of community and the importance of awareness in combating this disease.