Home Edition: Bigelow, AR - The McCully Family Story & Job's Journey

Tavares Bahringer 22 May 2025

Can the indomitable human spirit truly triumph over adversity, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges? The story of Job McCully, a resident of Bigelow, Arkansas, stands as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of the human will, proving that even when the odds are stacked against us, hope and resilience can prevail.

The tale of Job McCully is not just a story; it is an odyssey of courage, a chronicle of battles fought and won, and a shining example of the profound impact that community and unwavering faith can have on an individuals life. Born in Bigelow, a small community nestled in the heart of Arkansas, Job's life took an unexpected turn at the tender age of four when he was diagnosed with leukemia. This diagnosis marked the beginning of a long and arduous journey, one that would test his physical and emotional limits and place him in the center of community's unwavering support. His story serves as an inspiration to those grappling with their own challenges and a reminder of the extraordinary capacity for hope that resides within each of us.

This is a story of Bob McCully who, in 1977, after a distinguished career in the Navy, made Bigelow, Arkansas, his home. He purchased an old house and 18 acres, beginning a new chapter. The community of Bigelow, with its modest population of around 382 people, is located in central Arkansas, northwest of Little Rock. It is a place where neighbors know each other, and a strong sense of community thrives. The family would later face unexpected difficulties, but Bigelow would rally to support their own.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Job Harrison McCully
Age	26 years old (as of 2024, born May 2, 1998)
Location	Bigelow, Arkansas
Education	University of Central Arkansas (Junior at the time of the Extreme Makeover)
Medical History	Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at age 4, survived chemotherapy, radiation, and bone marrow transplant. Developed bronchiolitis obliterans, received a double lung transplant at age 9.
Current Affiliation	Optional Party (Registered to vote in Perry County, Arkansas)
Interests/Aspirations	Attends TFC (possibly referring to a church or similar organization), hopes to become a missionary in Japan.
Family & Associates	Dana Baker, Chad Cumming, Joshua Mahfouz, Mary Gipson, Shannon Wright, and others.
Notable Achievement	Featured on ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."
Facebook	View Profile

The McCully family's journey, however, was not without its challenges. In 2002, at the age of four, Job was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. This diagnosis was followed by years of intense medical treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and a bone marrow transplant. While these treatments proved life-saving, they took a significant toll on his body, particularly his lungs. The young boy from Bigelow, Arkansas, began a series of medical crises and triumphs.

A year after the initial diagnosis, Job developed bronchiolitis obliterans, a rare lung disease. Then, at just nine years old, he underwent a double lung transplant. These interventions offered Job a new lease on life, but the road to recovery and a normal childhood remained long and arduous. The McCully family persevered through each challenge. Despite the odds, Jobs resilience shone brightly, becoming an emblem of hope and a source of inspiration for his community.

In February 2007, Jobs health took a turn for the worse. His condition rapidly deteriorated, prompting his doctor to send him immediately to the hospital. This brought the community of Bigelow together, as they watched his condition with growing concern.

The close-knit community of Bigelow rallied around the McCully family, offering support and prayers. The family was facing a constant battle, but the community's response showed the extent of their character. This was not merely a reaction of sympathy, but of active compassion and a deep-seated belief in Jobs ability to overcome adversity. This unity further fueled Jobs fight. The story of the McCullys became a source of inspiration not just within Bigelow, but beyond its borders, as people were touched by the young boys indomitable spirit.

The McCully family's story gained further recognition in 2008 when the community rallied to nominate them for ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." The McCullys home was in disrepair, and the program offered a chance to provide a safer and larger home for them to live in. The Bigelow community sprang into action, writing letters and urging others to do the same. Their efforts, and the widespread support for the McCully family, caught the attention of the show's producers.

The sheer volume of letters received from Bigelow was so overwhelming that the production team had to temporarily halt their mailroom operations. This outpouring of support resulted in a new home for the McCullys, a tangible symbol of the community's love and dedication. This moment was captured in the news, on August 24, 2008, Carol Rolf wrote an article called "Job's Miracle."

This recognition further solidified Jobs status as a local hero. Despite the challenges he faced, Job was a constant source of inspiration. The experience transformed not only their living conditions but also their lives. The new home provided a safe and supportive environment, allowing Job to focus on his health and his dreams for the future. The reality show served as a testament to the community's resolve and its commitment to supporting the McCully family through their struggles.

The story of Job McCully is a story of both survival and triumph. He has been given another chance to live life. Even though the treatments saved his life, they also severely damaged his fragile lungs. Job's journey is one of remarkable resilience. Diagnosed with leukemia at the age of four, he endured chemotherapy, radiation treatments, and a bone marrow transplant before starting elementary school. Later, he would also develop a rare lung disease, bronchiolitis obliterans, and even needed a double lung transplant. He is a true trooper and has been a blessing to everyone he has come in contact with. His story, however, is not defined by the challenges he has faced but by his ability to overcome them.

The ongoing fight of the McCully family has continued. The family's journey is not a passive one, but an active participation in life, and they have faced many battles. The legacy of this boy extends far beyond his health. His courage has inspired many, and he has become a beacon of hope in his community and beyond. The young man's story stands as a tribute to the strength of the human spirit.

Job McCully's story serves as a reminder of the importance of community, resilience, and the unwavering power of hope. His journey, marked by immense suffering, is a testament to the human spirits capacity to endure and overcome. He is a young man who has turned his trials into triumphs, inspiring those around him to face their own challenges with courage and grace. His story continues to resonate, reminding us of the enduring strength of the human spirit.

In 2008, the McCully family received assistance from ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," which renovated their mold-infested and dilapidated home. This transformation provided a safer and larger living space, enhancing their quality of life and highlighting the communitys support. Jobs story has touched many. Through the years, Job has found a path that he loves, still attending TFC and hoping to become a missionary in Japan. Dana Baker, Chad Cumming, Joshua Mahfouz, Mary Gipson, Shannon Wright, and many others are family members and associates of Job.