Happy 6 months Mighty Mack! Mackenzie Friedman, affectionately known as Mighty Mack has celebrated her 6-month milestone all while fighting her biggest battle.
Johannesburg, South Africa (06 July 2021) – Little Mackenzie Friedman, affectionately known as Mighty Mack, was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) on Wednesday, 12th of May 2021; her story has touched the hearts of South Africans and mobilised many to donate blood and register as bone marrow donors in honor of her journey.
Yesterday her parents celebrated her 6-month milestone and her community commended her fighting spirit.
“6 months of you, Mackenzie Paula Friedman
The best, bravest, most beautiful daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin & friend we could’ve imagined.
We couldn’t be more proud Gogo.
Today isn’t quite how mom and dad would’ve pictured spending your half birthday, but you better enjoy the peace & quiet while you can, because your next milestone is going to be the 1st birthday party of the century!!
We love you with all our hearts brave girl”
Mighty Mack has had a bit of trouble since our last update. She underwent surgery recently on her lung to remove a growth. The surgery was incredibly risky but thankfully, the growth was removed. Mack is back in the ICU recovering. Now that the growth is gone, her recovery may be much faster.
“On Tuesday night (last week) she battled some seizures which seem to have been infection and chemo related, and on Thursday after a CT scan the doctors picked up an abscess in her right lung. It’s great news that it has been found as this appears to be the reason for her ongoing infections and can now be treated.”
While Mighty Mack and her family focus on her recovery so she can undergo her next batch of Chemo, we can all do a little to help put the family’s minds at ease.
Due to Covid, many of the bone marrow collection drives have had to be canceled, but you can still sign up and do the process remotely.
Blood donations are also a great way to help. You can find your nearest SANBS blood bank here to make your life-saving donation. You can stay up to date on all things Mack by following her Facebook page here.
How to become a registered donor
- Register Online at www.dkms-africa.org (formally known as The Sunflower Fund) or www.sabmr.co.za.
- You will be notified if you qualify to be a donor by working through their lists.
- No blood or needles involved, just a cheek swab.
- Registering is free of charge.
To honour beautiful little Might Mack, a friend of the family and talented artist Kyle Light created a stunning drawing of Mackenzie. Take a look below.