Clayton MacLagan Obituary Valparaiso, IN, College Student And Basketball Player Has Died

Clayton MacLagan Obituary, Death – Clayton MacLagan, a strong player for the Valparaiso High School basketball team, had a health problem that he was unaware of. The pain in his lower left back and abdomen turned out to be testicular cancer, a diagnosis that would change his life forever. Standing six feet six inches tall, MacLagan had been an essential part of the basketball team that won two sectional titles for Valparaiso High School.

From Dunking in Court to Getting a Cancer Diagnose: Even after graduating from high school, he played business in addition to being an athlete with the Goshen Maple Leafs. I’ve spent my entire life dreaming great ambitions, hanging out with pals, and watching anime. He had no idea how formidable his opponent would be. On April 12, MacLagan, then 20 years old, received the diagnosis of choriocarcinoma, a rare testicular tumor.

ICU Challenges and Unwavering Determination: Less than 1% of testicular non-seminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCT) fall into this category. He was flown to IU Health by helicopter and began treatment the same day he was diagnosed. Throughout his suffering, MacLagan struggled mightily to eat, drink, move, or walk, and he spent 12 days in the intensive care unit (ICU). Despite the challenges, he became one of the few persons to walk while on a ventilator.

“Just Breathe” is the catchphrase.: The weight dropped by twenty-five pounds throughout this trying time. His journey home was a welcome break before more rounds of chemotherapy and getting ready for a stem cell transplant. Throughout the process, MacLagan adopted the phrase “Just breathe.” This proverb developed beyond simple words to become a family bracelet, a tattoo, and an accent on shirts worn under his basketball outfit.

Looking Ahead: The New Path for IU Bloomington: There were moments throughout chemotherapy when breathing was difficult for him. He found strength in these succinct yet profound words. MacLagan is fighting cancer, so in addition to the physical challenges, he also has to deal with the emotional weight of his friends returning to college. Unfazed, he is embarking on a fresh journey. To be closer to his twin sister and close friends, MacLagan is moving to Indiana University Bloomington.

He is welcoming the positivity, persistence, and unwavering spirit that have defined his path so far. Clayton MacLagan’s life is an inspiration to the bravery required to confront adversity, endure through it, and look forward to the future with a clear sense of purpose. “Just breathe” is a mantra that follows him on his journey and in the minds of those touched by his perseverance.