Malia Jusczyk

Malia Dakota Jusczyk (June 26, 2008 — June 14, 2023) was an American child recognized for her advocacy in raising awareness about childhood cancer, particularly neuroblastoma. Throughout her battle with cancer, she participated in various initiatives supporting cancer research and patient care.

Early life and diagnosis

Malia Jusczyk was born on June 26, 2008, to Megan and Glen Jusczyk in Ludlow, Massachusetts. The family later relocated to Plainville. At the age of two, Jusczyk began experiencing severe abdominal pain, which led to her diagnosis of neuroblastoma, a type of cancer affecting the nervous system. Initial misdiagnoses delayed treatment until further evaluations revealed a large tumor in her kidney that had spread to her spinal cord, bone marrow, femur, and spine​.

Jusczyk received treatment at Boston Children's Hospital, undergoing six rounds of chemotherapy, a 10-hour tumor resection surgery to remove her adrenal gland and kidney, and a stem cell transplant. The family moved from Florida to Boston to access specialized medical care. In April 2021, nine years after being declared cancer-free, Jusczyk experienced a relapse of neuroblastoma.

Cancer advocacy and activism

Malia Jusczyk was involved in cancer advocacy through the For Kids' Sake Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by her family in 2011. The foundation raises awareness for neuroblastoma, funds pediatric cancer research, and provides financial assistance to families affected by cancer. It also organizes community-based initiatives, such as the annual Super Hero Race to Crush Cancer and the Crush Cancer 5K and 10K runs in Plainville, Massachusetts, to raise funds for clinical trials and support families facing limited treatment options. Malia's story helped raise awareness for pediatric cancer, and the foundation's efforts were supported by the local community.

The Greater Baker contest

During her cancer treatment, Jusczyk developed an interest in baking and became known for her Signature Brown Butter Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies. In the spring of 2021, she won the online competition The Greatest Baker, and was awarded a $20,000 prize. She used the prize to establish her baking business, Malia's Sweet Treats, and support pediatric cancer research. Jusczyk was also featured in Bake from Scratch magazine. The contest, sponsored by various brands and professional bakers, supports charitable initiatives such as No Kid Hungry.

Soccer involvement

In 2021, Malia Jusczyk was named Honorary Captain by the New England Revolution soccer team during the Kick Childhood Cancer game. She participated in a ceremonial lap around the field, accompanied by player Matt Turner.

On May 13, 2022, the community of Medway, Massachusetts, organized a special soccer match at Lamson Field in honor of Malia Jusczyk. The event allowed her to engage in one of her favorite activities, soccer, while recognizing her resilience throughout her illness.

Death and legacy

Malia Jusczyk died on June 14, 2023, after a prolonged battle with neuroblastoma. Her connection with the New England Revolution soccer team remained significant, with former goalkeeper Matt Turner publicly paying tribute to her. Her legacy continues through the efforts of her family and the For Kids' Sake Foundation, which supports pediatric cancer research and provides assistance to families affected by the disease.

Tributes and remembrance

In memory of Malia Jusczyk, King Philip Regional Middle School established a Day of Kindness to promote kindness among students and staff through various activities. The school also installed a mural and a permanent concrete ping pong table to honor her legacy.

A candlelight vigil was held at Telford Town Park in Plainville, organized by local Catholic parishes to commemorate Malia Jusczyk's impact on the community. The event showed the community's ongoingsupport for pediatric cancer awareness and research.