Madison Janelle Smallwood
December 12, 2006 — June 25, 2019
Madison Janelle Smallwood, 12, passed away peacefully at home on June 25, 2019 after a four year battle with osteosarcoma cancer. She was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, and friend. She is survived by her mother and brother, Lori and Landon Smallwood, father, Kenneth “Ryan” Smallwood, grandparents (Doug and Connie Hammond, Kenneth and Shelly Smallwood, Billie Elaine Smallwood), many aunts/uncles, cousins, hamster (Brownie) and dog (Fiona).
Madison’s cancer journey began on July 16, 2015. She underwent 30 plus rounds of chemotherapy, 30 plus rounds of radiation, numerous surgeries, and unlimited hospital visits. During this entire time, Madison was the most determined, courageous, strong, and inspiring girl you would ever meet. She always had a smile on her face and was so positive during her cancer battle. In many ways, she was a local celebrity and the princess of her small town Monroe.
Madison loved going to school and doing her best! She loved being around all her teachers, office staff, and friends. She was looking forward to attending 7th grade and moving over to “the other side”. Madison gave life EVERYTHING she had! She will always be remembered for her kindness to others and her positive outlook on life. Madison was thankful for her close friend’s (Naomi, Bella, Claire, Carissa, Matty and Calla) and their enduring support of her through the years.
Madison will be missed beyond measure, but NEVER FORGOTTEN! She was LOVED by an entire community and will forever live on in our hearts. When you are having a rough day, look up to the sky, Madison will give you a sign to keep going. Our motto was “One day at a time” and “tomorrow is never promised”. So make the most of today with the ones you love!
We would like to thank everyone for your support during this difficult time. We are grateful for the amazing care that was provided to Madison from Cincinnati Children’s (from her oncologist(s), care manager(s), social worker, the nurses, the PCAs, HUCs, therapist, and housekeeping) while she was inpatient. Our hearts are full knowing that during her last few weeks here with us, she received the best care at home from Cincinnati Children’s StarShine program.
A public Celebration of Madison’s life will take place at Princeton Pike Church of God, 6101 Princeton Glendale Rd, Liberty Twp, OH 45011, on July 1st 2019. Family and Friends will be received from 3-7 pm. Memorial Service will begin at 7pm. Madison requested for everyone to wear her colors PINK and/or YELLOW or one of her Team Madison shirts. Burial will be a private event for family only at a later date. Please plan on attending a sunset service on July 16, 2019, to remember Madison on her 4 year anniversary (more info to follow).
💛 Every year, over 300,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer.
💛1 in 285 children will be diagnosed with cancer before they are 20.
And the worst part...childhood cancer receives LESS THAN 4% of the total funding from the government set aside for cancer research. FOUR PERCENT!!! That is not OK! Without research, we continue to fail these children.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following organizations in Madison’s name for cancer research, a holistic approach to fighting cancer, or helping local families of children diagnosed with cancer in our area: