When Maddison was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma – an aggressive cancer that forms in the skeletal muscle – at just four years old, her family’s world changed overnight.
Queensland Children’s Hospital became their second home, and Maddison faced months of intensive treatment that challenged her in ways few children could imagine.
But through it all, Maddison’s resilience and her connection to our programs helped her find moments of joy along the way.
Facing the unimaginable
Maddison’s journey began with what seemed like a broken leg, but scans revealed a large mass in her pelvis.
Transferred urgently from Bundaberg to Queensland Children’s Hospital, Maddison was diagnosed with cancer and treatment began right away.
In the following months, Maddison underwent countless rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, shrinking the tumour from the size of a grapefruit to a grain of rice – finishing treatment in July 2018.
However, follow up scans revealed she needs further treatment. Maddison bravely underwent more chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, before completing her treatment July 2019.
Over the years, Maddison has endured complications that have left lasting effects on her body such as muscle weakness, chronic pain, the challenges of being tube-fed and even sustaining significant damage to her bladder that required reconstructive surgery.
Finding joy in hospital
During long hospital stays, the Children’s Hospital Foundation became a vital source of comfort, joy and relief for Maddison.
Programs like bedside play and music therapy brought light and colour into her days, helping her focus on creativity and fun rather than treatment.,
“The Foundation’s work is such a joy for parents. It gives children back a part of their childhood that is often lost in the hospital,” shares mum, Vanessa.
The Foundation’s support also helped create a sense community for Maddison, who loved meeting other children and Foundation staff, sharing stories and finding joy in activities like Kidzone, craft packs and surprise ward visits.
Since the hospital opened in 2014, Children’s Hospital Foundation volunteers have recorded over 246,000 hours delivering impact for kids like Maddison, including more than 14,000 hours of play every year.
New milestones and a bright future
Now 12 years old, Maddison is in remission. She has returned to school, where she proudly serves as House Captain – a role she embraces with pride.
As she adjusts to life after treatment, Maddison looks forward to building new memories with her friends and family.
Now as we celebrate a decade of world-class care, Queensland Children’s Hospital has transformed countless young lives. Maddison’s story is a powerful reminder of the Foundation’s impact.
Through programs that offer support, connection and joy, the Children’s Hospital Foundation helps families like Maddison’s face each day with hope and strength – ensuring no one has to face childhood illness alone.
The difference that shapes their world
Through supporting the Children’s Hospital Foundation, you can improve childhoods and ensure all children and young people have access to treatment - sooner.
