McCartney’s Story

Site created on April 9, 2018

When he was just nine years old, McCartney Weast was diagnosed with a very rare life-threatening blood disorder called Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH), which causes the constant destruction of red blood cells. For several years now, he's required IV medication every 12 days and during the last few months, he's needed blood transfusions every two weeks.

Today, McCartney (or Mac as most of us know him) is 19 years old and just completed his freshman year at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he's working toward a double major in International Business and German. He earned a 4.0 GPA both semesters of his first year, despite countless doctor's appointments, numerous blood transfusions and other issues stemming from his health challenges.
 
In April, a bone marrow biopsy revealed that Mac is in need of a bone marrow transplant. The good news is that following a successful transplant, he'll be cured of his PNH disorder! To learn more about the bone marrow transplant procedure, including how you can become a donor and potentially save a life like Mac's, visit https://bethematch.org/transplant-basics/.

Mac is a treasure to all who know and love him and we're so appreciative of your support and words of hope and encouragement. We'll be using the CaringBridge website to provide all updates on Mac's bone marrow transplant, so be sure to check back.

Newest Update

2018 sucked, but Mac keeps rockin’

Journal entry by Kathryn Weast —

2018 is definitely not going down as The Weast’s favorite year ever, but we’ve still got much to be thankful for, including that Mac’s blood counts are stable enough for him to get out and about a little. Still no crowds, but it definitely gives him a bit more normalcy and freedom to feel like a person again. 

Now to the exciting part of this quick update: Over the last year, our uncle Emmet worked with Mac to record and produce his first album, a recording mix of covers and performances of our Uncle Dave’s original songs and now, the album is out! We’re still working on getting it uploaded to Apple Music and Spotify, but for now you can listen to the album, Del Sol Sessions here: https://m.soundcloud.com/mccartneydavid

I’m beyond proud of Mac for the album and for his resilience during the past year. His strength is inspiring and I hope you all enjoy his tunes as much as I do. 

KW
Read More of the journal titled "2018 sucked, but Mac keeps rockin’"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help McCartney Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like McCartney's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Leave a comment of support for McCartney

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Load more comments
Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top