Howland college student diagnosed with rare cancer getting ready for second surgery

A college student from Howland who was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer back in October of 2024 is getting ready for his second surgery.

The family of Max Moriarty says Max's second surgery will take place on Wednesday, May 7. This surgery will result in the removal of a pelvic tumor.

Max's story began when he came home fall break and went to a routine checkup appointment with his doctor. That's when he was unexpectedly diagnosed with Desmoplastic Round Cell Tumors. 

According to the National Cancer Institute, only about 200 cases have been recorded since it was first described in 1989.

Max underwent his first surgery in March of 2025 and was originally scheduled to undergo the second on April 30 before it was pushed back to May 7.

Since his first surgery, Max's family says he's been feeling good and strong with the family enjoying an overnight camping trip and seeing an Akron Rubberducks baseball game with their dog.

Max has also reregistered for school next year and is excited to go back.

The family is asking for donations to pay for the medical expenses from Max's second surgery. You can donate by clicking here.

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