Help us give Jake McGuire A Wish

As many of you may know, our nephew Jake McGuire of Mansfield was diagnosed with cancer this past September, days after his 18th birthday. Jake had been excited for a “normal” senior year, after having 3 years impacted by Covid; but an MRI on August 30 showed a 4-inch tumor in his abdomen. After further testing and a biopsy, he was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare pediatric cancer.

To date, Jake has endured 9 rounds of chemotherapy through his implanted chest port often as an inpatient at Boston Children’s Hospital. He’s had numerous blood and platelet transfusions, sometimes with adverse reactions. He’s been on IV antibiotics 5 different times from complications. On two occasions, complications led him to be admitted to the ICU for septic shock. He’s currently undergoing a grueling 6 weeks of daily radiation to his entire abdomen, in addition to his chemotherapy regimen. He has five rounds of chemotherapy left and is hoping to finish all of his treatments by this Spring. It has been incredibly heart wrenching to watch him endure all of this.

He amazes our whole family with his strength and ability to maintain a “glass half full” mentality despite all he is going through. This is exactly who his is—someone with amazing resilience and someone who is always thinking of others. He has been known to bring extra anti-nausea candy with him to the chemo clinic to share with the other kids! We are all heartbroken to watch him endure this, yet he is the one that tries to encourage us and lift up our spirits, reminding us that this is all temporary. Jake has been attacking his treatment with never, ever, give up attitude. His favorite song is “Riser” by Dierks Bentley. On one of his nights in the ICU, his nurse played it on her computer for him while he was having an arterial line placed and he sang along…

He is relying on his own positivity, his faith and all the amazing support and prayers he has received from his hometown, his high school Bishop Feehan, his family and friends. Jake applied early decision to Holy Cross College and plans to attend there this Fall. We know he has a bright future, but seeing him endure this pain, suffering and uncertainly is beyond heartbreaking.

Jake’s home infusion nurse nominated him for Make A-Wish, but due to the fact he was diagnosed after his 18th birthday, he does not quality. His Make a Wish was denied. My sister Aimee and I decided to make a fundraiser effort to see if we could surprise him with funds this Spring when he finishes treatment, so he can have a Wish of his own! Please help us give him a Wish!

This incredible kid continues to inspire us everyday, but has been through so much. Please keep him, Katie, Mark, Luke and Annie in your prayers!