It took just a matter of days for an online fundraiser to cover the cost of a Tsawwassen teen's experimental cancer treatment to surpass its goal.
Over the weekend, the McConkey family started a crowdfunding page in an effort to raise the $250,000 needed for 18-year-old Kyle McConkey to undergo an experimental treatment, which is only available at Seattle Children's Hospital, in his battle with leukemia.
That goal was reached by Wednesday and the donations continue to roll in. As of Thursday morning, the fund was up to more than $254,000.
"We are so humbled and thrilled," the teen's parents, Ross and Joanne McConkey, posted on the fundraiser's page. "Words can't describe how appreciative we are ... we would like to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for helping our son beat this terrible disease."
Ross McConkey told the Optimist the response has been overwhelming, adding donations have come in from across the province, throughout Canada and the U.S., and from as far away as Africa and Australia.
Kyle fell ill during a family camping trip in July of 2012 and was taken to a nearby hospital. He was soon diagnosed with hypodiploid acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It was the day before his 16th birthday.
After chemotherapy, radiation and a bone marrow transplant from younger brother Keegan, followed by several months in hospital, the cancer was in remission and life began to return to normal for the family.
The cancer returned earlier this year and was not responding to treatment. After a second transplant involving stem cells failed last month, the family was told Kyle has just weeks left.
Seemingly out of options, Ross McConkey was contacted by the mother of a young leukemia patient who has been cancer-free for 18 months following the experimental therapy. The treatment would see doctors harvest Kyle's own T cells, a white blood cell that makes up part of the immune system. The cells are then re-engineered to fight the cancer before being transplanted back into the patient.
Kyle is currently undergoing treatment for an infection as well as chemotherapy to kill enough of the cancer cells to give the treatment a chance. Ross McConkey said things appear to be going well and Kyle had some positive test results this week.
"We're heading in the right direction."
Ross McConkey said his son is tired after battling the disease for so long, but remains focused on the fight.
"He still wants to fight but his energy level is worn down."
The family is planning to travel to Seattle on Dec. 10 where Kyle will be assessed by doctors and, if all goes according to plan, the treatment will start around Dec. 17.
A fundraiser for Kyle and his family is set for next Wednesday at South Delta Secondary. The Family Fundraiser for Kyle McConkey will feature a by-donation Bollywood/Bhangra dance class, a live Elvis impersonator and silent auction. The event runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
To make an online donation, go to www.youcaring.com and search for Kyle McConkey.
