Help Max in his brave cancer battle

Hello everyone. My name is Meghan and I am Max's "bonus" Mom.

I am reaching out to you with a heavy heart, hoping to provide support for a brave 14-year-old boy named Maximus, who has been battling terminal brain cancer for the past three years. On 2.2.22, Maximus was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer called diffuse midline glioma (DMG). The tumor was inoperable and terminal upon diagnosis. At the young age of 11, Maximus was given 12-18 months to live. Despite the median survival time of this type of cancer being 9 months, Maximus has defied the odds and remains fighting over 3 years later. Thanks to the amazing care he has received at Seattle Children's Hospital, he has been able to travel, attend school and even walk his mom down the aisle in the summer of 2024.

In recent scans, Maximus's tumor showed new areas of growth. He had already lost the ability to walk independently but now with these new changes, his mobility has decreased further. He needs help with all daily activities. As his doctors continue to try and find medications and treatments to prolong his life, it is a constant battle of fighting side effects and trouble shooting his evolving symptoms. Though he resides with his family in Portland, they travel up to Seattle Children's often to his Oncology Team.

Despite his incredible courage and relentless fight, we have become aware that his time is running out. Maximus has fought with everything he has, but as his battle draws to a close, I am hoping to provide some support to his family. We're hoping to get him a customized wheelchair. We're needing medical cost support. We're needing counseling support. If you know Katy, she will NEVER ask for ANYTHING. This has been her journey and she has done so much on her own as a single mom until recently. Now is the time that we (as her community) can step up and assist.

Over the past three years, Maximus has gone through countless treatments, surgeries, and hospital stays. Katy has been by his side every step of the way while still working but the financial burden of medical bills, medications, and specialized care has been overwhelming. As the family prepares for the difficult road ahead, they are facing new challenges, including loss of wages as his mom Katy steps back from work to care for Maximus for whatever time he may have remaining, final medical expenses and funeral costs.

We are asking for your support to ease the financial strain and help provide Maximus with the peaceful and loving environment he deserves. The funds raised will be used for:

Ongoing medical care (copays, items not covered by insurance, ect)

Funeral and memorial expenses

Grief Counseling for the Family

Any additional costs that may arise during this difficult time

Every contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a significant impact. Even if you are unable to donate, sharing this campaign with others can help spread the word and give this family the support they so desperately need.

Please keep Maximus and his family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this heartbreaking time. We are so grateful for your kindness, compassion, and generosity. The family is forever grateful for any assistance and hope for the opportunity to pay it forward in the future.

With gratitude,

Meghan Borden "bonus mom"