Meet Madison

When I was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer at just 34 years old, my world changed overnight. Along with worrying about surgeries, scans, and chemotherapy, I was suddenly faced with another heartbreaking reality—I might lose the opportunity to have children.

My husband and I had always dreamed of growing our family. Before starting chemotherapy, I made the decision to pursue fertility preservation, but the financial burden felt overwhelming at a time when we were already navigating so much uncertainty.

Receiving assistance from Team Maggie’s Dream lifted a weight off our shoulders. Because of your generosity, I was able to preserve hope for a future that cancer cannot define. Your support wasn’t just financial—it was a reminder that even during one of the hardest seasons of my life, complete strangers cared enough to help protect my dream of becoming a mom someday.

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned throughout this journey is the importance of leaning on your support system. As someone who has always liked being independent, accepting help didn’t come naturally at first. But I’ve learned that allowing the people who love you to stand beside you isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s one of the greatest gifts. My husband, family, friends, coworkers, and medical team have carried me through moments when I couldn’t carry myself. Their love, encouragement, and unwavering support have reminded me that I never have to face this alone, and I am incredibly grateful to have each of them in my life.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned that I’d want every newly diagnosed cancer patient to know, it’s this: ask questions early about fertility preservation, even if you’re overwhelmed. Many cancer treatments can affect fertility, and you may have more options than you realize—but timing is important. Also, don’t be afraid to accept help. There are incredible organizations like Team Maggie’s Dream that exist because they believe your future matters.

Cancer has taught me not to take tomorrow for granted, but it has also shown me the incredible kindness of people I’ll likely never meet. Thank you, Team Maggie’s Dream, for helping me hold onto hope and for giving my husband and me the chance to keep our dream of having a family alive. Your generosity will always be a part of our story.