Max Sych from Fairview, Alta was recently diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy type 2, a rare and debilitating disease. SMA is a rare disease which slowly takes away muscle strength in the entire body; losing the ability to walk, swallow and even breathe.
Fundraising efforts have been taking place across the region and all over the province for a life-changing drug not funded by Health Canada that costs $2.8 million dollars. Zolgensma is the most expensive one time dose therapy in the world and Max needs it before he turns two years old, which has a timeline that falls somewhere between his actual birthday in January 2021 and his due date at the beginning of May.
From January 7 to 14 at both Tim Hortons locations in Peace River and Valleyview will have “Max’s Donut”. All proceeds from the special donut will go directly to his family to get the life-changing gene therapy. 
If you are getting a dozen or more donuts, they are asking for them to be pre-ordered to ensure they will be ready for pickup.
Another fundraiser is also happening in Peace River, Grimshaw and Berwyn for “Mighty Max”.
On January 9, a contactless bottle drive will be happening with the towns, with the proceeds going towards getting Max’s much needed treatment.
To participate, put your bottles on the curb by 10 a.m for volunteers to pick them up as they will be driving around looking for them. For those who aren’t able participate on this day, you can still donate by dropping off your bottles at the Peace River Grimshaw, Fairview or Hines Creek bottle depots and labelling your bags with “Mighty Max”.
To donate online, click here.
-Erika Rolling, Trending 55 Newsroom
