Madelynn Nicole “Maddy” McInerney was born February 26, 1999, in Libertyville, Illinois. The youngest of five, Maddy loved cheerleading, especially being a flyer. She had the most amazing dimples, was instantly friends with anyone she met, and her smile lit up a room. She also had the best laugh in the world and sweet Chicago accent which I love to play back in my head.

At 15, Maddy was diagnosed with a brain tumor. She endured five brain surgeries, radiation, chemotherapy, and an experimental vaccine therapy as her cancer progressed to Stage 4 Glioblastoma. Years before her diagnosis, she had cut off her hair to support classmates and others facing cancer. After her diagnosis, she raised thousands of dollars for brain cancer research and inspired her community to stand beside her.

Maddy passed away peacefully at home on November 25, 2016, at just 17 years old, and it felt as though the stars dimmed. I replay my memories with her all the time and will never forget them. Love you MNM.