Journey to Healing: Rallying for Max’s Recovery from Cancer

Story

Support for Max’s Cancer Journey

Last month, my brother Max received a diagnosis none of us could have ever imagined: cancer.

Just days following his 26th birthday and less than three weeks before his wedding and honeymoon, our world was turned upside down. For over four months, Max experienced excruciating, progressive, and debilitating pain. He went from doctor to doctor—urgent cares, ERs, specialists—pleading for answers. Again and again, he was sent home without referrals, without next steps, without being heard.

He was made to feel like a nuisance, accused of seeking pain meds when in reality he was simply begging to be taken seriously. While there’s much more to say about the failures that led to such a delayed diagnosis—painful examples of being dismissed, misjudged, and mistreated—this post isn’t about blame. It’s about asking for help.

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What Max Is Facing

Max has been diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma and has begun the long and difficult journey of treatment. In addition to mounting bills, this diagnosis has affected every part of his life—his ability to work, move with ease, and carry out everyday tasks.

The cancer has spread, with the largest mass consuming nearly half of his right tibia, and additional involvement behind his left knee and in his hips. This has profoundly impacted his daily living. He’s unable to put weight on his leg, which means walking, driving, or doing most normal activities is no longer an option. On top of that, the cancer’s presence in his bones and lymph nodes causes severe and constant pain—making even basic comfort, like sitting or lying down, incredibly difficult.

The physical, emotional, and financial toll is immense.

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How You Can Help

We’ve created this GoFundMe to help with:
• Medical bills and treatment costs
• Supportive therapies
• Emergency fund due to unexpected costs
• Living expenses and lost wages

Any amount helps. Truly.
And if you’re not in a place to give financially, sharing this page, keeping Max in your thoughts, or offering prayers are all powerful ways to show support.

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With Gratitude

We’ve already felt an outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and even complete strangers. From the bottom of our hearts—thank you. Your kindness, in all its forms, means more than we can ever express.

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Organizers :

Delanie Hergenroether is organizing this fundraiser.