Join Maddie's Journey to Overcome Leukemia

My name is Wonok, and this is my attempt to help save my family.

I have a beautiful five-year-old niece named Madison (Maddie), who lights up every room with her bright smile. She loves dressing up as Elsa and playing pretend, just like any little girl her age. But two months ago, our world changed.

We received devastating news from my brother-in-law, Poyun (Po)—Maddie was being rushed by ambulance to Riley Children’s Hospital. With no idea what was happening, we raced there with heavy hearts, fearing the worst. Anyone who knows Riley knows that when a child is taken there in an emergency, it’s serious.

When we arrived, we saw little Maddie sitting quietly on a big hospital bed, smiling. But the sight of her—so small and fragile in a bed that seemed far too big—was heartbreaking. It didn’t feel real.

After countless tests, imaging, and multiple blood transfusions, we learned that Maddie has Burkitt’s leukemia, a rare but aggressive form of lymphoma. It progresses rapidly and requires immediate and intensive treatment. For the past two months, Maddie has bravely endured two rounds of chemotherapy. Despite the grueling treatments, her white blood cell counts finally improved enough for her to come home last Monday. She was so happy to be back.

But just yesterday, she was rushed back to Riley by ambulance with a high fever. She developed yet another infection and needed treatment right away. The fight continues.

Maddie’s parents, Gemma and Po, have been doing everything they can to care for her. Three years ago, they followed their dream and opened a Korean fried chicken restaurant in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Po, a culinary school graduate from Miami who trained in New York, poured his heart into the business. In just a few years, they built a loyal community that loved their authentic food.

When Maddie got sick, they closed the restaurant so they could be by her side. Not long after, they received a second devastating blow: the building was being sold, and their lease was being terminated. With no income and a long road of treatment ahead, they are now facing financial hardship on top of everything else.

Maddie’s treatment is expected to continue through September, and frequent travel to Riley Hospital is still required.

I am humbly asking for your thoughts, your prayers, and—if you’re able—your support. Maddie is fighting a battle she never asked for and can’t fully understand. Anything you can give will go directly toward helping this incredible little girl and her family navigate the difficult months ahead.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

With gratitude,

Wonok