Max and Emily met in 2019 in Washington, DC, and have since built a life together in Chicago with their Goldendoodle puppy, Melo (named in honor of Carmelo Anthony, a nod to Max’s hometown, Syracuse).

Before meeting Max, Emily learned that she inherited the CHEK2 mutation from her mother, who tragically lost her battle with breast cancer at the age of 38. This mutation, if passed down to their children, could significantly elevate their risk for breast and colorectal cancer.

To ensure their children do not inherit this mutation, they have been advised to undergo IVF with PGT to test embryos and select those that do not have the CHEK2 mutation. Emily and Max are so grateful that the CCFB Magnolia Tree Grant will help them pursue a healthy future for their family!

Emily and Max are recipients of a Magnolia Tree Grant.