Aaliyah’s leukemia diagnosis at age 10 was met with fear, but McMaster Children’s Hospital provided hope. From a newly renovated Oncology Unit to Child Life specialists and cutting-edge research, donor-funded care made her treatment and recovery possible. Aaliyah is now cancer-free and back to doing what she loves: cooking, playing volleyball, and spending time with loved ones.
Aaliyah is a creative child who loves her family. After experiencing severe leg pain at age 10, she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at McMaster Children’s Hospital. Over the next two years, Aaliyah underwent chemotherapy, countless tests, and regular hospital visits.
Thanks to donations in support of MacKids, Aaliyah received specialized care in a newly renovated, child-friendly Oncology Unit designed to prioritize children’s physical and emotional well-being. Donor-funded toys, games, and activities brought joy during her treatment, while trained Child Life Specialists offered emotional support. Cutting-edge research into pediatric cancers and treatments—made possible by donor generosity—were also critical to her recovery.
After completing her treatment, Aaliyah and her family marked the occasion with a traditional Indigenous ceremony in Makayla’s Room, a dedicated Indigenous healing space in the hospital open to all families.
Today, Aaliyah is cancer-free and back to doing what she loves: cooking, playing volleyball, and spending time with loved ones.
Aaliyah is a creative child who loves her family. After experiencing severe leg pain at age 10, she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at McMaster Children’s Hospital. Over the next two years, Aaliyah underwent chemotherapy, countless tests, and regular hospital visits.
Thanks to donations in support of MacKids, Aaliyah received specialized care in a newly renovated, child-friendly Oncology Unit designed to prioritize children’s physical and emotional well-being. Donor-funded toys, games, and activities brought joy during her treatment, while trained Child Life Specialists offered emotional support. Cutting-edge research into pediatric cancers and treatments—made possible by donor generosity—were also critical to her recovery.
After completing her treatment, Aaliyah and her family marked the occasion with a traditional Indigenous ceremony in Makayla’s Room, a dedicated Indigenous healing space in the hospital open to all families.
Today, Aaliyah is cancer-free and back to doing what she loves: cooking, playing volleyball, and spending time with loved ones.
Thanks to your support of MacKids, kids like Aaliyah can get the best treatment and care possible.
Aaliyah’s foundation
MacKids
Thanks to your support of MacKids, kids like Aaliyah can get the best treatment and care possible.
