Hi everyone,

We’re reaching out with full hearts and a deep sense of hope to share Maeve’s story and ask for support during an incredibly challenging time for her and her family.

Maeve is a bright, creative, and fiercely strong 4-year-old who was diagnosed in early August with Wilms tumor, a rare form of kidney cancer. What began as a simple urgent care visit quickly turned into every parent’s worst fear — doctors found a large mass in her abdomen, and she was rushed to Albany Medical Center Children’s Hospital for immediate evaluation.

Since that day, Maeve’s world has been filled with hospital rooms, scans, procedures, and more bravery than any child should ever have to show.

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Maeve’s Fight So Far

For many children with Wilms tumor, the first step is surgery. But Maeve’s tumor — lovingly nicknamed “Willy” — was so large and close to major blood vessels that surgery wasn’t safe. Her team recommended starting with chemotherapy through a clinical trial run by some of the country’s leading Wilms tumor experts.

Maeve’s body struggled with the intensity of treatment. She has endured:

• Frequent fevers leading to many ER visits and hospitalizations

• Significant side effects requiring constant monitoring and many medications

• Night terrors and anxiety that have been incredibly hard on her and her family

Still, Maeve’s spirit has remained bright — coloring, crafting, and sharing little smiles with her care team. Her family affectionately calls her their “Brave Baby Bat.”

After two cycles of chemotherapy, repeat scans showed limited response. A second opinion was requested from pediatric oncology surgeons at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. They recommended immediate surgery.

In early October, Maeve underwent a complex 12+ hour surgery to remove “Willy” along with her right kidney and to place a new port for ongoing chemotherapy. She recovered in the pediatric ICU and then the children’s unit for almost two weeks before finally returning home.

Her family is grateful to say that “Willy now lives in NYC.”

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Where Things Stand Now

Although home, Maeve continues to face a very tough road.

She is still receiving regular chemotherapy, with the goal of finishing in the spring. She completed her radiation treatments locally — a huge blessing — but the side effects have been intense.

Maeve has been experiencing:

• Ongoing ER visits, mostly due to post-chemo fevers

• Painful neuropathy in her feet

• Severe nausea, vomiting, and constipation

• Significant fatigue

• Weight loss requiring nutritional supplement drinks to avoid a feeding tube

• A long list of medications to manage symptoms

Through it all, Maeve remains the bravest little fighter.

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Why We’re Asking for Help Now

Until now, Maeve’s family has only asked for prayers — and they are so grateful for the support they’ve received.

But the financial strain has become overwhelming.

With Maeve’s frequent hospitalizations and medical needs, the family made the difficult decision for her dad to stay home. Maeve’s baby brother was born in December, and the paid family leave available for the year was already used at that time. Maeve’s mom has limited paid time off left, and while friends and coworkers have generously donated hours, she still often has to take unpaid leave for appointments, hospital stays, and emergencies.

Between lost income, travel expenses, uncovered medical costs, and caring for a newborn during crisis after crisis, the family has reached a point where they need help.

Your support will allow them to focus on Maeve — not financial stress.

Funds will go toward:

• Travel costs for appointments, ER visits, and hospital stays

• Meals and essentials during long treatment days

• Out-of-pocket medical expenses

• Nutritional supplements

• Medications and care-related supplies

• Household support so Maeve’s parents can remain present with her

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Thank You for Standing with Maeve

Maeve has shown extraordinary strength at every step of this journey. Her courage, resilience, and bright spirit continue to inspire everyone around her.

If you’re able to donate, any amount truly helps lighten the burden. If you can’t give financially, sharing this page and sending love, prayers, and encouragement means more than words can express.

Thank you for supporting Brave Maeve and her family.