Madi's Battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Hi! My name is Mariah, and I’m fundraising for my little sister, Madi.

Madi is two years younger than me and truly one of the strongest people I know. She’s always been kind, caring, and full of light. Her personality is one of the brightest I’ve ever known—she brings warmth to every room she walks into.

On March 20th, 2025, Madi was officially diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Since then, she has started an intense treatment journey, including a long-term hospital stay (about 30 days) and her first round of chemotherapy.

Our family has been doing everything we can to support her—spending time with her in the hospital, bringing her things to keep her entertained while she recovers, and making sure she gets her Starbucks and non hospital food during her long stay. My mom, Trudy Skinner, and her boyfriend Joey are at the hospital every day, comforting her and keeping her company through the hard days.

So many people have reached out to ask what we need or how they can help. And honestly, the best way to support Madi right now is financially.

Before her diagnosis, Madi was working as a contract dog groomer without employment benefits. Her boyfriend Joey, who had been recovering from a workplace injury, had just returned to part-time work when Madi was diagnosed. He now spends most of his free time at the hospital by her side. During her stay in the hospital and for at least the next year Madi will not be able to work, not only was her work physically demanding but she will be having ongoing chemotherapy throughout the year.

Even though life has slowed down for us, the bills haven’t. We’re raising funds to help Madi cover her rent, utilities, groceries, and everything we can to bring her joy during this next year of her battle.

We also hope to buy her a comfortable couch to rest on at home between outpatient chemo treatments—something cozy and supportive, since most of their current furniture is hand-me-downs. Her doctors also gave us a list of ways to make her home more chemo-friendly: air filters, new makeup every month, headscarves, transportation support, and other comfort and safety needs.

If you’ve made it this far—thank you. Madi is my little sister, and I love her so much. This journey has been incredibly difficult, but the love and support from our community have been overwhelming in the best way. Every donation, every share, every kind message—it all means the world to us.

From the bottom of my heart, from one big sister to the rest of you, thank you for helping us make this next year a little easier for Madi. ❤️