IRWIN COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) — 4-year-old McCoy Paulk rang the bell marking the end of his cancer treatment and returned home to his family Saturday, Aug. 8, as his community gathered for the McCoy Strong Challenge fundraiser.

The event raised more than $64,000 to support McCoy and his family.

Diagnosis and treatment

McCoy was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a cancerous brain tumor, in January after experiencing dizziness, blurred vision, and nausea. Doctors discovered a tumor in the fourth ventricle of his brain.

His treatment included a seven-hour surgery at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to remove the tumor, 42 rounds of chemotherapy, three tandem stem cell transplants, infections, blood transfusions, and more than 120 days spent in the hospital.

Coming home

McCoy’s mother, Maebry Paulk, stayed by his side in Atlanta throughout treatment while his father, Clint, and twin brother, Cutler, traveled back and forth. During that time, the family also welcomed a new son, Riggs.

Maebry said this was the first time in more than 120 days that their entire family had been under the same roof.

Clint Paulk said McCoy had been dealing with rashes and sickness leading up to the event and was not expected to be home in time for Saturday’s gathering.

McCoy Strong Challenge

The McCoy Strong Challenge brought the community together Saturday for a 5K obstacle course and other events. Trophies were awarded, and donations were collected throughout the day.

Organizer Alexandria Maluda said support grew beyond what organizers initially expected, with donations continuing to come in and attendees asking how they could give more.

“Stop bringing a five-gallon bucket, bring a pool. You can’t limit God,” Alexandria said, recalling a message from her pastor during the fundraising effort.

Alexandria and Mitchell Maluda said the event was about more than raising money. Mitchell said he wanted the Paulk family to know they did not have to carry the weight of their son’s cancer battle alone.

McCoy’s parents thanked the community for every donation, prayer, and act of support shown to their family throughout his treatment.

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