How platelet donors made Maxwell’s music possible

Music has been part of Max’s life for as long as he can remember. A pianist from Victoria, he’s spent nearly twelve years sitting at keyboards and drum kits, disappearing into practice rooms for hours. Playing has never been just a hobby for him; he hoped to pursue a future in music.

But long before music became his home, Max’s life was shaped by uncertainty. At just seven months old, he was diagnosed with Wiskott–Aldrich Syndrome, a rare blood disorder that affects how his immune cells function and platelets form. After waiting two years, he underwent a cord blood transplant in 2010 and received platelet transfusions as well. The treatments saved his life, but the transplant also introduced new challenges. He developed Graft vs Host Disease, where his immune system was working too hard, turning against his own body. It led to complications he still manages today.

Music first became meaningful to Max when he was living in hospital as a child. He worked with a music therapist, and together they wrote and played songs. Music became a way for him to escape his illness and connect with something beyond the hospital walls. Today, he enjoys performing and playing with friends, and he sees music as a powerful way to connect with people. This made the reimagined version of Sia’s ‘Unstoppable’ an opportunity he didn’t want to miss.

Taking his place at the piano with Tina Arena, Ngaiire and the full ensemble, Max could feel the connection and enthusiasm in the reimagined version of ‘Unstoppable’. For him, it was amazing to meet and play with great artists and musicians, and for everyone to share their stories through the creative collaboration.

Max encourages anyone thinking about donating to just go ahead and donate, as you might not realise at the time, but it can make a huge difference to someone’s life. And he says a huge thank you to everyone who has donated.

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