She was born with Down syndrome which presented many challenges... a heart defect, low muscle tone and delayed speech. But to us, our family, and friends she was so PERFECT. In February 2009, she was diagnosed with Leukemia and prior to the start of her chemo treatments, she was also diagnosed in the hospital with RSV, a serious respiratory virus which can take the life of any child. The medical staff moved forward with the chemo treatments and unfortunately it allowed the RSV to spread aggressively in her lungs.

On February 28, 2009 McKenzie lost her battle to RSV and Leukemia and passed away.  She touched so many lives in her 3-1/2 years which was very evident the evening of her visitation and funeral the following day.  Approximately 1,000 friends and family gathered for her visitation the evening of March 4, 2009 and filled St. Joseph’s Church in York, PA the next day for her funeral.

The outpouring of support was so overwhelming that we decided to keep Mackie’s life and spirit alive by holding an annual charity event entitled “Mack Madness.” The event was family oriented and included children’s activities such as sand art, face painting, horse rides, games, and bounce houses! The day also included an auction, raffles, live music, a chicken BBQ and so much more.

All proceeds raised from the event were donated to charity. The National Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, York Area Down Syndrome Association and The Ronald McDonald House were a few of the charities we’ve donated to in the past.

On May 25th, 2019, we held our last Mack Madness event at Naylor’s Winery. Most of the proceeds from the event were donated to The National Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the American Cancer Society. We also supported Mack’s “buddies” at the York Area Down Syndrome Association. It was a day of mixed emotions but comforting to know that Mack is still making a difference from Heaven.

Our new journey with Mack began with Penn State in 2022 as we created Mack Madness Benefiting THON, a special interest org in her memory to support and be part of Penn State THON in the fight against childhood cancer.

God, Mackie, family, friends and the many prayers we’ve received will continue to provide us strength. Mackie’s life and spirit will live on and we look forward to great success at Mack Madness 2010!

God Bless, Ed and Lisa Schneider