Woodway cancer survivor selling soda and baked goods to raise funds for childhood cancer research

WACO, Texas (KWTX) - A 14-year-old cancer survivor who says not enough money is being put toward fighting childhood cancers is raising funds by setting up soda and baked good stands.

McKenzie Covert, of Woodway, had two successful stands this past week and plans to donate the money raised to an organization called CURE Childhood Cancer which is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families.

“I am a childhood cancer survivor, and I think it is very important to do little things like this to raise money for cancer research and also kids that were just like me,” McKenzie told KWTX.

McKenzie was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in September of 2015 after becoming lethargic and developing unexplained bruising.

She started treatment immediately and when she was not in remission in the first month as expected, she moved into a high-risk category and began more aggressive chemotherapy.

In January of 2016, she was in remission but due to the risk of relapse her treatment had to continue for two more years.

It was an extremely tough time, says McKenzie’s mom, Tiffany.

“Over those two years, McKenzie endured oral, IV and spinal chemotherapy, steroids, countless hospital stays and many blood and platelet transfusions,” Tiffany said.

McKenzie beat cancer in February 2018 after completing 28 months of treatment.

Since that time, the teenager has spent countless hours spreading awareness about childhood cancer.

This year, she is serving as McLane Children’s Miracle Network Champion for 2025 meaning she is assisting with fundraising efforts and helping spread awareness about childhood cancer.

McKenzie says she knows she’s one of the lucky ones and that’s why she’s raising money for others now walking the same road she has and those still to come.

“This is important because only four percent of the federal cancer budget goes to childhood cancer so it’s important to spread awareness,” she said.

Today, McKenzie is a thriving eight grader who enjoys spending time with her friends and playing sports.

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