Building Hope, One Lego at a Time: McKenna Rodolph's Journey
At just 17, McKenna Rodolph has already overcome a significant battle with cancer and transformed her personal journey into an inspiring mission to help other children facing similar challenges. Her passion for Legos became a powerful coping mechanism throughout her treatment, providing comfort, distraction, and creativity during difficult times.
Facing a Life-Changing Diagnosis
Initially, McKenna experienced persistent fatigue, nausea, and a low-grade fever, prompting her mother, Jenny, to seek medical answers. Despite starting with something seemingly simple like a stomachache, their world quickly changed with a frightening diagnosis—cancer.
The Treatment Experience
Over two and a half years of treatment, McKenna endured chemotherapy and the emotional turmoil of side effects, including hair loss—a challenge that, while outwardly small, profoundly impacted her sense of belonging. Through these difficult moments, McKenna's courage remained steadfast, bolstered by a supportive family determined to fight alongside her.
Finding Purpose in Advocacy
Even amidst her health battles, McKenna channeled her experience into advocacy. She engaged in speaking events, galas for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and used her voice to inspire others. For her Make-A-Wish experience, McKenna chose to visit the birthplace of her beloved Legoland in Denmark, demonstrating her deep passion and the integral role Legos played in her journey.
Turning Passion into Action
Cancer-free and empowered, McKenna has now launched an ambitious Eagle Scout project—a Lego mural titled “Hope” to be displayed at Children's Hospital. The mural symbolizes hope for young patients, featuring an engaging, interactive "seek and find" element designed to brighten long hospital stays. McKenna plans for this colorful mural to offer both visual inspiration and a hands-on distraction for kids during their treatments.
Generous Community and Corporate Support
To support this project, McKenna launched a GoFundMe campaign, and soon earned the attention and admiration of the Lego Group itself. Proud of her vision and commitment, the company generously donated 9,000 Lego pieces to support her mural's completion.
A Bright and Hopeful Future
McKenna’s journey extends beyond building blocks; she dreams of a future in medical research, inspired by the very challenges she overcame. Her determination to give back to her community, combined with her hopeful outlook, creates a lasting legacy of inspiration, resilience, and compassion.
Through McKenna’s courageous example, we learn the profound power of turning personal adversity into advocacy and hope—one Lego brick at a time.
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This blog was reviewed by Dr. Sourabh Kharait.
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, hydration strategies, or diet. The information provided here is based on general insights and may not apply to individual circumstances.
