‘Magic for Maddie’ fundraiser held in Holyoke

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) – The second annual Magic for Maddie fundraiser is being held in Holyoke on Saturday, honoring the enduring “sparkle” of forever 8-year-old Madeline Schmidt.

Madeline ‘Maddie’ Schmidt lost a 10-month battle against diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a form of brain cancer. In her memory, her family created the non-profit Magic for Maddie LLC, which hosts events like the Magic for Maddie fundraiser to spread kindness in her name.

Saturday’s event, to be held on what would have been Maddie’s 9th birthday, took place at Ashley Reservoir and the Holyoke Elks located at 250 Whitney Ave in Holyoke. It included a full day of fun for families of all ages including food and ice cream trucks, live music, bounce houses, magic shows, games, a dunk tank, a raffle, and more.

Registration was $35 for adults, $15 for kids, and $100 for family max. Registration costs include all carnival activities and entertainment, a Magic for Maddie t-shirt, and a choice of an ice cream or complimentary beer or wine. Parking is free. 22News spoke to Maddie’s mother about the importance of raising awareness to battle cancer.

“There is no cure right now, so when she was diagnosed, we were told to go home and make memories; and that is not enough for these kids. Maddie deserved more and all these kids deserve more,” expressed Nora Schmidt, Maddie’s Mother.

People gathered at the Reservoir ready to run and walk in honor of Maddie Schmidt. Proceeds from the event will benefit brain cancer research, local families affected by cancer, and organizations that were close to Maddie’s heart.