Nearly all cases of Wilms tumors, a rare form of pediatric kidney cancer, are diagnosed before a child turns 10 years old. When Maddie Newburn was first diagnosed, she was just a toddler. Unfortunately, shares Amo Mama, Maddie is once again facing a cancer diagnosis after 7 years of remission. Now 10 years old, Maddie’s doctors found a Wilms tumor on her kidney in April 2021. This stage 4 cancer has metastasized. As “Marvelous Maddie” now faces this new battle, her community is rallying behind her, even raising money to help support her family during this time. Interested in donating to the GoFundMe? Head here.
Wilms Tumor
Also known as nephroblastoma, Wilms tumor (sometimes written as Wilms’ tumor) is a rare form of childhood cancer which begins in the kidneys. Although this cancer is rare, it is the most common form of childhood kidney cancer, accounting for 90% of diagnoses. In many cases, the cancer first forms on one kidney, though it can form on both. Without treatment, Wilms tumors can spread. Typically, this cancer manifests between ages 3-4, with the risk dropping after 5 years old. Risk factors include a family history of Wilms tumor, having Beckwith-Wiedmann syndrome or WAGR syndrome, or being African-American. Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Appetite loss
- High blood pressure
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Mass or lump in the abdomen
- Hematuria (blood in the urine)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shortness of breath
Supporting Maddie
Unfortunately, Maddie is now facing her second battle with cancer. But, at just 10 years old, she is remaining remarkably positive and upbeat. Her father, Scott Newburn, shared on the GoFundMe page:
All of her friends, family, and others that care about her reaching out and sharing well wishes and encouragement has been a big part [of Maddie’s positive attitude.] Maddie has a smile to share and continues to bring joy to those around her.
Of course, Maddie has difficult days but is working through them through the support of her community. In fact, on August 24, 2021, her community even held a bake sale to help raise the funds for Maddie’s treatment and family support. Currently, Maddie is undergoing intensive chemotherapy to prevent the cancer from spreading further. She also recently received surgery to get rid of a 7-inch kidney and liver tumor.
So far, Maddie’s GoFundMe has raised just under $10,000, with an ultimate goal of $15,000.
