Imagine hearing these words: “Your child has cancer,” or “Your child has a rare genetic disorder.” I can’t even wrap my head around it. But, two Maine families are dealing with this right now. It’s a constant cycle of doctors, treatments, surgeries, healthy times, setbacks, fear and hope. The families of Houlton native Makenna Ward and Levant native Maggie Rudnicki did hear those words about their children.

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Kirk and Amy Ward’s daughter, Makenna was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma in 2009 when she was just 23 months old. She's now almost 6. Neuroblastoma is a form of cancer that occurs in infants and young children that accounts for approximately 6% of all cancers in children. She’s a fighter though! Get her full story here.

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4-year-old Maggie Rudnicki was diagnosed with Diamond Blackfan Anemia when she was just a month old. DBA is a rare blood disorder in which the bone marrow fails to produce red blood cells. Maggie requires constant blood transfusions and will need a bone marrow transplant. She doesn’t stop smiling though! Get her full story here.

Together the girls’ families have created the Miracle Mile: Makenna and Maggie’s Race for Research, to raise funds to find a cure and to bring awareness to these diseases.

Jolene Wallace - TSM
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We had a chance to talk to Makenna’s Dad, Kirk, in the studio today and here’s what he had to say about the Miracle Mile.

Kirk also said that they’re hoping to do the Miracle Mile every single year until there is a cure. Let’s help these amazing families kick off this event in a HUGE way!

If you would like more information on how you can help or to donate, check out the Miracle Mile's Facebook page!

Donations can be mailed to Miracle Mile, c/o County Physical Therapy, 4 North Street, Houlton, ME 04730.

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