Brave Like McKenna

08/21/2026

08/20/2026

On Saturday, September 19 at 3:00 pm on the National Mall at Constitution Gardens, there will be an exclusive screening of a brand new feature-length documentary: 499 Days.

This powerful documentary tells the story of Kyler, a young boy diagnosed with DIPG, a rare and devastating pediatric brain cancer. The film follows Kyler and his family through the 499 days from his diagnosis, capturing their love, courage, heartbreak, and hope while shining a light on the urgent need for awareness, research, and better treatments for childhood cancer. Come hear Kyler’s story and honor his memory.

You can view the trailer at https://youtu.be/9qvekpnk1do.

Please visit 499days.com for more information on the movie and how you can help .

If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

08/18/2026

3 years ago today McKenna underwent surgery to remove the tumor in her brain.

A day we wish no child or parent ever have to experience.

McKenna was so brave.
She faced things no child should ever have to face.
And while her story is the heart of Brave Like McKenna, she is sadly one of so many children who have been asked to be warriors far too young.

Today, we honor our sweet McKenna.

And while we remember her, we honor every child currently fighting.
The kids facing surgeries, treatments, scans, needles, hospital stays, and uncertainty.

No child should have to fight this battle.
But while they do, we will keep showing up for them and the families walking beside them.
We will choose bravery, just like McKenna.

08/16/2026

You're Invited! On September 12, we'll gather at the Mill Valley Baseball Fields to honor, remember, and raise funds to support families facing pediatric cancer.

Bring your family, friends, co-workers and neighbors! This is our 3rd Annual Glow Walk and it's going to be the best yet!

We have a fun evening planned for families with face painting, cotton candy, KC Whip, balloon art, photo booth and the Glow Walk itself happening at dusk.

✨ 3rd Annual Brave Like McKenna Glow Walk
📅 Saturday, September 12 from 6-9pm
📍 Mill Valley Baseball Fields in Shawnee, KS
🌙 Walk begins at dusk

The walk is a gentle stroll around Gamblin Park and will be lit with luminaries honoring loved ones.
🎗️September is Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month and it's also McKenna's birthday month. We'd be honored if you joined us this year!
📣We highly encourage you to register prior to the event if possible!

Sign Up Here: https://givebutter.com/BraveLikeMcKenna-Glow-Walk-2026

08/13/2026

McKenna's life was far too short, but the love she gave us continues to reach farther than we ever could have imagined.

Today, that love looks like showing up for families facing pediatric cancer.

It looks like helping a family pay a utility bill.
It looks like comforting a parent who just heard the words, "Your child has cancer".
It looks like advocating in Washington for better treatment outcomes.
It looks like a Brave Bag arriving when a family needs a little extra hope.

It looks like turning love into action.

We are so thankful you are part of our mission.
Together, we keep her light shining brightly.

08/09/2026

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it impacts the entire the entire family.

That's why we believe supporting children with cancer means supporting their whole family.

This is what support looks like at Brave Like McKenna.

08/07/2026

🥊Fighter Friday: August 2026

Today we'd love for you to meet one of our Hometown KC Heroes, Sebastian.

Sebastian is 11 years old and courageously battling an astrocytoma, a type of brain tumor.

He loves basketball, is learning to play the saxophone, and his favorite color is red.

Will you join us in praying for Sebastian?
🎗️ Pray for healing.
✨ Pray for strength.
💛 Pray that he continues to find joy in the things he loves.
🙏 Pray for peace, hope, and endurance for his family.

Your generosity and support allow us to show up for families like Sebastians. THANK YOU for your donations, Glow Walk 2026 registrations and support of the important work we are doing for these special families.

08/06/2026

At Brave Like McKenna, we believe no family should have to face pediatric cancer alone.

This month, we're celebrating 🎗️World Cancer Support Month and the importance of showing up... for the child fighting, the parents beside them, and the siblings walking through it all.

Support the family. Support the fighter.

Since 2024, we’ve had the honor of coming alongside 132 families facing pediatric cancer and providing $120,807 in financial support.
Every dollar represents a family who needed someone to show up during an incredibly difficult season and remind them that they aren't alone.

This is the heart of our mission.
This is how we honor McKenna's legacy.
This is how we turn pain into purpose.