Thursday, April 26, 2012

Wish List Items

Cancer Cuties Baskets Wish List:

Here Are Some Donation Suggestions:
*Handmade or Store Bought Items:
Blankets
Pillows
Pillowcases
Fuzzy Socks
Knitt Hats
Headbands
Jewelry
*Easy to Do, Easy To Clean, Indoor Toys:
Thomas Trains
Legos (Not Too Small)
Blocks
Dolls
Balls (Not Too Big)
Cars (Sturdy, Not Easy To Break Into Small Pieces)
Action Figures
*Arts and Crafts:
Crayola Crayons
Coloring Books
Paints
Arts and Craft Kits (Stores lLke Target Carry a Large Assortment Of This Type Of Kit)
Design Your Own ____Kits
Play-Doh
Dress-Up
Kits For The Girls (Nails/Makeup, Jewelry Pretend Play)
Paint By Number Kits
Hand Held Games (For Older Kids)
Small Remote Controlled Cars
*Relatively Non-Perishable Snacks In Their ORIGINAL Manufactured Packaging:
Popcorn
Cheese Puffs
Animal Crackers
Sweets
Pretzels
Candy (NO Handmade Foods UNLESS They Are A Professional (Trained and Licensed) Baker/Cook.
*Entertainment Items:
MP3 Player
DVD Player
CD Player
CDs
Movies (No Rated R Movies Please)
Childrens Books
Books (For Older Kids)
*Hygiene Items
(Think Relax and Rejuvenate For The Parents While They Are Always Traveling, Staying In Hospitals With Their Children)
Shampoo
Conditioner
Body Wash (For Men and Women)
Razors
Shaving Cream
HAND SANITIZER!!
Disinfecting Wipes
Anything to Help With Mom and Dad's Chores
Dishwasher Samples,
Laundry Detergent,
Food: and Supplies For a Meal
Stamps
Stationary with Envelopes
*Enjoyable Samples/Items:
Make-up,
Lotions,
Beauty Tools
Samples (IE:Avon, Mark, Mary Kay Perfumes, Sephora.....)
*Gift Cards:
Walmart
Kmart
Target
Home Depot
Starbucks
Amazon
CVS
Walgreens
Rite-Aid
Grocery Stores
Prepaid Phone Cards

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Current and Upcoming Fundraisers

FUNDRAISERS CURRENT AND COMING SOON



Andrea's Baked Goods Homemade breads and pastries. Fundraiser now til May 16th, Andrea will be donating 40% of all earnings to Cancer Cuties!! Head over to Andrea's Baked Goods and order something YUMMY!!

Scentacular Scentsy Continuous Christine Dell, Ind. Scentsy Consultant and Founder of Operation: Support a Cancer Cutie. ALL earnings go toward Cancer Cuties!! Head over and get some scentsy today!!



Country Gourmet Shop
Leila Ind. Consultant
Country Gourmet Home is a family owned business using only real fruits and vegetables in each mix, creating mixes that require only basic kitchen ingredients or water, and personal customer service for each and every customer and consultant.







*If you are a vendor or Ind Consultant and would like to run a fundraiser for our Cancer Cuties organization, Please contact me. dec11cs87@yahoo.com

Current Cuties

OUR CURRENT CUTIES


Logan Sinclair 5 Years Old Diagnosis: Anaplastic Medulloblastoma Brain Cancer Story: Logan was your average four year old-he enjoyed running around and playing; he especially loved playing with his best friend and sister Lexi. Then things started to change. At first it was just headaches, headaches his doctor told mom, Jennifer were normal... Mom wasn’t so sure- something just didn’t seem right. Over the next five months Logan’s headaches continued and soon there were new symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Finally on July 6, 2011, an MRI discovered the cause of Logan’s headaches. That is the day the Sinclair’s life was forever changed. The MRI found a brain tumor. Two days later Logan underwent a delicate surgery to remove the tumor from his brain. Five anxious days later the Sinclair family heard the words every parent fears most- Logan has cancer- Anaplastic Medulloblastoma to be exact. On August 3, 2011, Logan began his treatment at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Ehrough 31 treatments of chemotherapy and radiation, Logan's surgery to remove his tumor has left him with Posterior Fassa Syndrome, a syndrome that has left Logan unable to swallow, sit, stand or even speak. Logan’s family could not even hear their precious son's voice for over a month. This syndrome has also affected Logan’s cognitive skills. Logan, who is now 5, began another 6 month round of chemotherapy on November 3rd. Along with the chemotherapy Logan will continue the hard work of rehabilitation. What the future holds for Logan is unclear, what is clear is that little Logan is a fighter and his family has been blessed by the love and support of many friends and family members. Please pray for the entire Sinclair Family and that Logan is completely healed! ♥ He is a sweet and gentle soul and so far he has proved to be a real brave fighter too! Thank you for all of your kindness and support for the Sinclair family. To read more about Logan and Share your support for the Sinclair family, follow them on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/​prayforlogan
Baby Kipton Krumland 1 year Old Diagnosis: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Story: On August 26th, 2011 Kipton was taken to the doctor by his mommy after she noticed some bruises on his legs and small red spots behind his ears. The bruises were suspicious to his mom because it seemed as if he was bruising himself while grabbing his own legs. The office sent him to St. Elizabeth's for some blood work and sent him home. A few hours later the doctors office called with the devastating news. He was transported to Children's Hospital by ambulance within the hour. He is currently at Children's hospital in Omaha Ne where he had a PICC line placed, an unsucessful bone marrow biopsy (his marrow was too spongy to obtain a sample) and a dose of spinal chemo. Kipton is expected to remain at Children's for over a month. And will be receiving long term treatment during the next three years. The treatment started on Sunday September 4th, 2011 as inpatient therapy. With all your prayers and Kipton's amazing strength, he was able to leave the hospital just in time to spend his first Christmas at home with his family. As of now, he will be traveling back and forth for further treatments over the course of the next three years. As you can imagine travel expenses in addition to loss of income during this journey will bring a significant financial strain to the family, they appreciate any and all help they receive! SIBLINGSl 1 older brother Kody & 1 older sister Peyton THey would LOVE for us to send them a gift or two as well for all of their hard work in being supportive and helpful to their mom and dad!
Hannah Smith 9 Years Old Diagnosis: Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer) Story: On December 8, 2011 Hannah was knocked down on the playground during recess at school. Her right knee swelled up and after visiting her pediatrician, was told we'd do x-rays to determine what damage was done to her knee and why it was so swollen. After having x-rays done on December 15, 2011 we were told there was a tumor--the swelling was not caused by the "injury" on the playground. After an MRI and biopsy of her knee, we were told that Hannah has osteosarcoma--a type of bone cancer. Hannah also recently had a rotationplasty orthopedic surgical procedure on the 19th of March (they had to rotate her foot around). There will be 6 weeks of healing, they will X-ray to see how her leg is healing and at that time we'll start talking about prosthetics. She will have to do a lot of intensive physical therapy to train her foot muscles to flex the opposite direction so her ankle will become her knee joint. Hannah is not nervous at all at this point. This girl is "WONDER WOMAN" On her first Physical Therapy Session after surgery the 19th, she did almost everything on her own! She only had help from a physical therapist for balance. Hannah did not flinch or pout or complain or cry. She said it didn't hurt at all and was acting like it was no big deal. She stood up on her own for a 5-count then sat back down and did that 5 times in a row too!! In fact, she's rather EXCITED NOW at the prospect of having this cancer gone. She just wants to walk again on her own and this is the biggest and most important step for achieving that goal. We know we have a long road ahead of us, but Hannah is a strong little girl and we are all learning to take this journey one day, one step at a time. Thank you for continuing to lift up Hannah and all of us as we begin this new chapter in her precious life! WHAT A POWERFUL EXAMPLE OF A WARRIOR!!! You can follow Hannah's AMAZING journey here: https://www.facebook.com/​pages/​Prayers-for-Hannah-Smith/​169666989801239?sk=wall
Name: Abby Grace Neeham 7 Years Old Diagnosis: Stage IV Pineoblastoma Brain Cancer Story: Abigail Grace Needham was born full term with a clean bill of health on March 25, 2008 Abby has grown up quickly and learned language, shapes, colors, and numbers ahead of expectations. She has seemed to always pickup on some wonderful mannerisms, claiming her fame to a wonderful sense of humor. In the early morning hours of July 7, 2011, the family entered Children's Hospital Central California for a scheduled MRI of her head because flu like symptoms she was having were not going away. The family thought the doctors were going to identify an inner ear infection. Instead, they received the worse news possible, Abby Grace is diagnosed with a Stage IV Pineoblastoma-a very rare form of brain cancer. As feared, it has since metastasized to many other areas throughout her head and all the way down her spine. Her prognosis is uncertain, but aggressive treatment is necessary. Abby began a six-stage treatment of chemotherapy at Children’s Hospital Central California which will continue at UCSF Children’s Hospital in San Francisco. She will also be going through 3 separate stem cell transplants because her brain is too young to handle full body radiation treatments. Her current protocol is scheduled to finish in a few months to determine if her tumors are shrinking. The Needham’s believe that Abby’s fight against cancer is not only a private matter, but also an educational one for the public. Since her cancer is so rare, they are happy to share their story so that more people can become aware of this disease and be part of a cause that works daily for a cure, so all children and all humans will never have to fight cancer again. THINGS SHE LIKES: Yellow, Pink, Music, Books, Pigs, Being a Princess, Ariel, Tangled WISH LIST: 5T long sleeve shirts, PJs & sweaters, Glitter, Paint & Paper, Dress Up Items , Toys
Name: Allison Nielson 3 Years Old Diagnosis: Stage IV High Risk Neuroblastoma Story: On March 19, 2011, our lives changed forever. It was any other day, we were preparing lunch, and Allison came up to me and said "Mommy, my throat hurts" I felt her neck, and found a golfball-sized lymph node. I knew right away something was wrong. I took Allison to the doctor's office who recommended she have a biopsy of the area. The biopsy seemed to go well, they removed four lymphnodes, and believe that they would serve their purpose not only for Allison, but for others as well. It was soon after that our precious little girl was diagnosed with Stage IV high-risk Neuroblastoma, undifferentiated with unfavorable histology on March 24, 2011. It has spread into her lymphnodes as well as her bone marrow. She had Surgery late March to install a luman catheter in her chest enabling the team to inject medicine as well as transplant cells when she is ready, and Chemotherapy started only a few days later. Our sweet baby is in for a hard battle and needs all of our support. They tell us that if her body will accept this new drug and re-accept her removed bone marrow, her survival rate is 65%. Allison began her first phase of treatment, which involved undergoing two five day rounds of chemo and then having stem cells removed from her bone marrow for freezing to then re-harvest them for re-entry at a later date. It is possible that these stem cells will not be suitable for re-entry in which case they will harvest again after the third round of chemo. Since then, Allison has had antibody treatments proven to be a fighter, even though they are struggling trying to maintain all of her count levels where they need to be to keep moving forward with treatment. Most recently, Allison was given the gift to go HOME on Christmas Eve!! It was 5:30pm, but that was good enough for us! We had a wonderful Christmas!! As far as Allison's health, things are still rebounding well from Round 1 of Antibody therapy! Honestly, the longest battle was getting her to feel better from the c-diff! And managing her mood, And in the beginning of January, she had surgery to remove her ports due to a severe gram negative Bacteria strain and is having new ones placed. Of course all of this medicine, surgery and treatment does not factor in our faith and Allison's strength, of which she is proving to have a great deal of. I ask each of you to pray for this beautiful young family. Allison's brother Nicholas has been so supportive of Allison's Battle, thank you so much! THINGS SHE LIKES: colors yellow, pink and green, yo gabba gabba (the pink character), spongebob! Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/​pages/Sweet-Allison-vs-Neuroblastoma/​192853114108038 CarePage: http://www.carepages.com/​carepages/Sweetallison
Name: Donavynn Cronk 8 Years Old Diagnosis: Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) Story: On 2/25/06 the Cronk family was suddenly caught in a whirlwind of fear and uncertainty-when Donavynn was only 21 months old, he was diagnosed w/ ALL (Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia). Then two years later in September 2008, only a mere 9 months away from completing all of his cancer-fighting treatment, he had an isolated CNS relapse, which demanded a new, more agressive treatment method. This new treatment he after his relapse included cranial radiation and high dose chemotherapy. He finished this treatment on November 8, 2010. We thought all was well, and the battle was won, but plans changed again when we learned, after a week of persistent headaches, that Donavynn's leukemia had returned, but was in his spinal fluid. This started us on yet another new journey we had hoped to avoid... he now needed a bone marrow transplant as that was his best hope for a cure because radiation and chemotherapy alone did not kill all the cancer cells. They began another major round of treatments and Donavynn was discharged from the Cancer Center Monday August 8 2011-up to this point NOTHING felt better than walking through those doors holding my little boys hand, unfortunately, we didn't make it even 5 days in our local Ronald McDonald house that he had to be readmitted, it was concluded after a few fights with doctors that his condition was poor enough to scope his lower GI tract which found adenovirus and some mild Grade 1 GVHD (Graft Vs. Host Disease. Essentially it is when the new immune system gets confused and attacks his body - common sites for this are the skin, gut and liver. It can be triggered by a viral infection because as the immune system attacks the virus it can get confused and attack him as well. Fortunately, grade 1 is the lowest grade which was very good, it is usually very easily treated) Donavynn ended up having a Nasalgastic feeding tube in place so he could actually eat and rest, instead of feeling sick and eliminated several times each hour. A few months later he had his bone marrow transplant, 100% donor grade! Again, everyone though the worst was over and recovery could begin, but his body experienced extreme distress from the transplant, and Donavynn had to spend over 5+ weeks in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit- 4 of these past weeks were spent on a powerful ventilator, in a drug-educed coma that left him paralyzed. In addition, he also fell ill to a powerful respiratory virus- that would give a healthy person croup, but for him, a child fighting cancer and now a bone marrow transplant, caused complete respiratory failure! More specifically, Donavynn was on a ventilator for a total of just over 4 weeks. Over 3 of those weeks were spent on an oscillator because his lungs were so damaged from the virus that a conventional ventilator was too harsh on his already damaged lungs. Being on the oscillator means that he had to be completely paralyzed so that he wouldn't breathe over the vent. He also had to be extremely sedated so that he wouldn't wake up too much and/or remember this very difficult time. Unfortunately, this means he is now addicted the narcotics, and taking methadone and ativan to detox The oscillator ventilates with quick pulses so the lungs don't inflate and deflate like with normal respiration, they are kept constantly inflated. It is a very uncomfortable way to be ventilated which was why they were so amazed at how well Donavynn handled it when they did let him wake up He now has a long road to recovery learning to walk again etc but through the amazing power of prayer and the through the knowledge of the amazing health care team at Children's Mercy he is healing and getting stronger every day! THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU WHO HAVE HELPED US! Whether you said a prayer or donated time or money to help us we couldn't have done this with out all of you. THINGS HE LIKES: Disney’s Cars, the Wii, Marvel Super Heroes (spiderman, batman, ironman) Frogs HAS 1 YOUNGER SISTER!
Name: Emma Routh 6 Years Old Diagnosis: Fanconi Anemia Story: Little Emma was diagnosed with Fanconi anemia when she was 3 years old. Fanconi anemia is a rare bone marrow disease that leads to many cancers and life threatening health problems, most frequently AML leukemia and bone marrow failure. So far Emma has stayed cancer free, but this warrior has been through so much. She has had countless rounds of chemotherapy, bone marrow aspirations, and very long hospital stays. I find myself on more than one occasion, trying to hold back tears as she goes through more than I could ever imagine. And every time, I expect her to cry. She gives out a little whimper, but is so much stronger than I ever could be. And somehow, keeps getting stronger. Shots, medications, restrictions, life confined to an isolated room in a hospital, has become our new normal. Yet she takes it with such grace, such ability, with no doubt in her mind, that she will not only live, but prosper. Her medical term vocabulary is far beyond most collage students. ANC, platelets, IV, catheters, Hickman line, chemotherapy and many more words like these are part of her everyday life. In October of 2010 she had a bone marrow transplant at Children’s hospital Boston, which saved her life. And her fight still isn’t over. Fanconi anemia doesn’t have a cure yet and is very low on funds for research. She is now 6 years old and making amazing strides every day. She just got back from a wonderful make a wish trip to Disney and is not letting this horrible monster get in her way of just being a kid. She has taught me to live everyday to the fullest, celebrate the small things, and cherish every moment. When something like this happens, it is almost like an entirely different surreal world. A new normal. Everything that once mattered, just doesn't seem so big anymore. Overall, Emma is the quintessence of a hero, and the epitome of bravery. Emma is a Fanconi Anemia warrior, and every day I pray that one day she will become a Fanconi anemia survivor. Please follow our journey at: http://www.facebook.com/​prayersforemma THINGS SHE LIKES: hello kitty, believes she's the one who's GOING to marry Justin Bieber (back off girls!), and is a total girly girl. PINK! PURPLE!
Taleah Stevenson 3 Years Old Diagnosis: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Story: Taleah Stevenson is a girl FULL of spunk and personality. She has always been a healthy baby. People have always mentioned how lucky I was that she was rarely sick. Then in August 2011, she had a really high fever (104) on and off for 10 days. Her parents took her in to the pediatrician's office and they checked for almost everything- UTI, kidney infections, strep throat, etc...doctors finally ended up with some lab work and chest x-ray. The x-ray looked fine but the labs were scary. The doc threw around the word leukemia, but said that it was likely not. What were the chances right?! He took great care of us and kept us up to date and we appreciated that so much. We even had a pathologist look and he said there was no leukemia. I was so relieved. The 3 hour wait until that point was brutal. At least it wasn't cancer, and I could move on with life. She eventually got over her fever and was pretty much back to her normal self. About 3 weeks went by and she was a little whiny, naughty, and needy...but what 2 year old isn't? Her mom kept thinking it had to be the age. Taleah's grandmother mentioned her pale skin and some extra bruising, but thought it was just lack of sun and a roudy 2 year old. On August 25th, Taleah woke up gasping for air. She had been waking up more often previous to that night. Her Mom ran in and checked on her, seeing was struggling to breathe and decided to give her a warm shower to see if that helped the breathing. And it did. Although the next day she seemed pretty good momma instincts started kicking in, and had a feeling that she needed to take her in. The doctor there said Taleah had croup and were given a steroid medication to administer for 2 days. Taleah's mom mentioned her history and asked her to pull up her labs. When the doctor reviewed them, she showed her the skin color/bruising...the doctor suggested labs be drawn again (even though Taleah had done it 4 times in the past 4 weeks). Tests showed her red blood cells were extremely low and that they were going to have the pathologist look over them. The family then received a call saying that things weren't looking great and Primary Children's wanted us up there within 5 hours... I knew it was serious. Then we talked about ambulance ride or driving up... I voted for the ambulance because I thought it would be quicker...it wasn't. He then called back to inform me that it was Leukemia.. my heart stopped and I felt like I was in a different world. That night was rough. Taleah screamed every time the door opened, every time someone walked in the room, every time someone touched her and even in her sleep probably dreaming about someone poking her. It was heartbreaking and the unknown was almost more than I could handle. We waited and waited the next morning for the news...they came in and my heart dropped. I will never forget the moment when the Dr came in and erased the AML from the board and pointed to ALL. I lost it (again). Since that day, Taleah has endured several blood transfusions Chemotherapy treatments and surgery, still fighting strong and staying hopeful with her family. You can read more about Taleah's journey at http://​togetherfortaleah.blogspot.​com/
Justin Diagnosis: Hypodiploidy Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia He was diagnosed on July 22nd, 2011. He is a PVHS Senior and a baseball player. His mom was a teacher at Ladera but had to take the year off to be with Justin while he receives treatment in Houston, TX. His dad is a police officer with the City of Farmington. Justin recently received a bone marrow transplant and has struggled with infections, low blood pressure and absolutely miserable nausea and vomiting. This is still a grueling process and ALL of your prayers are so appreciated! LOVES LOVES LOOOOVES BASEBALL!! hehe can ya tell? Follow on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/​pages/Prayers-for-Justin/​228001227239480?sk=info
"Super Nick Power!" DeFelice Diagnosis: Neuroblastoma Nick is a warrior who is fighting Neuroblastoma. He was diagnosed at the age of 3 LOOOVES HOCKEY AND BASEBALL! Follow: https://www.facebook.com/​groups/119100344786860/
Starla Chapman Diagnosis: Acute Myeloid Leukemia Story: On Sept. 13 2011, our family was shaken with the devastating news that our then 2 year old daughter Starla had been diagnosed with a rare leukemia in children known as Acute Myeloid Leukemia. We immediately began Induction I of chemotherapy on September 14th. Starla went into remission during Induction I of chemotherapy, and began another round of chemo on October 27, 2011. On December 27, 2011 Starla was placed in PICU to have medication because the chemo had caused damage to her heart. On January 3, 2012 Starla went into cardiac arrest after a seizure, She coded, and after 5 min. of chest compressions she was stable... her heart function had dropped to a DEADLY 6%. After being placed on ALL of the support medication available at the maximum limit, she was placed in a medically induced coma and on life support. we were told that Starla would not make it...there was nothing more medically that could be done, people just dont make it after such a low heart failure. Starla's situation began to change daily.....in fact....Starla made HUGE progress, shocking doctors and nurses!!! She was weaned from support meds, and extubated on January 22, 2012, the same night that a candlelight prayer was held at a park near the hospital. Several members of the community gathered...we continue to praise God for our miracle. On February 8, 2012 Starla was moved from the PICU and started round 4 of chemotherapy on February 9th!!! Since Chemo, Starla and her family have also been advocating Alex's Lemonade Stand, working hard to raise money to support other children who have been fighting as HARD as she has!! INCREDIBLE INCREDIBLE FAITH AND SUPPORT HAVE BROUGHT ON THIS AMAZING FIGHT AND WILL TO SURVIVE!! PLEASE HELP ME CELEBRATE THIS MIRACLE!!! You can follow Starla's Journey here: https://www.facebook.com/​pages/​Team-Starla-Support-Page/​246363622077436
Greyson Hitchens 5 Years old Diagnosis: an inoperable brain tumor Story: In 2010, Greysen was diagnosed with a form of epilepsy and was referred to AI DuPont Children's Hospital where Dr's discovered a mass deep in the cerebellum. Over the course of this past year we have gone for frequent MRI's to monitor the growth of this tumor. When the tumor began to grow we chose to proceed with surgery to remove it. So on July 21, 2011 Greysen went into surgery. His recovery amazed us. Our first followup scan was scheduled for October 4, 2011. The news was not what we had expected. Greysen's neurosurgeon informed us that not only had the tumor regrown, but it was nearing the size of the pre-surgery scans. The tumor is (DIFFUSE)meaning it is an infiltrating tumor, invading the surround healthy brain tissue and nerves, rending it inoperable. Greysen's case was presented to the Tumor Board at AI Dupont Children's Hospital where a team of Dr's decided that moving forward with radiation may do more harm than good. Greysen's brain is still rapidly developing and exposing him to radiation may bring about neurological deficits prematurely. On November 9, 2011 we visited John's Hopkins in Baltimore, MD to see world renowned pediatric neurosurgeon, Dr. Ben Carson. After careful review of Greysen's scans he agreed with the findings of Dr. Piatt of AI DuPont., the tumor in Greysen's brain cannot be removed through surgery. Unfortunately, the tumor involved the deep nuclei of the cerebellum which is the center for all physical abilities and disturbing this portion of his brain is not an option. With surgery and radiation both ruled out, chemotherapy seems to be our next course of action. This would require a port to be placed in Greysen's chest. We would make a weekly trip to Wilmington where Greysen would receive a six hour chemo infusion. Currently the plan would require treatment once a week for an entire year, but could vary depending on how the tumor responds to the treatment. WHAT HE LIKES: ANYTHING Mario and Luigi! Grey loves to color so art supplies make him smile. Grey is a cuddle bug so he loves his "lovies"... stuffed animals, blankets... the boy loves soft! Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/​pages/​Pray-for-Grey-The-Journey-C​ontinues/​203374473068154?sk=info
Baby Ryker- 3 Months Old Diagnosis: Heterotaxy Right Atrial Isomerism with asplenia and ventricular discordance (Severe heart Deffect) Story: Ryker was born March 7th 2012 with a very rare birth defect that affects his heart and other organs. His heart condition is so complex that he will need multiple surgeries. Ryker is currently at CHB (Children’s Hospital Boston) and being treated by the most amazing team lead by who many consider the world’s best pediatric cardiac surgeon Dr. Pedro del Nido and cardiologist Dr. Marx. At just two weeks old Ryker has endured 3 heart surgeries ( ) and is currently recovering well. As many people know especially those with children who have a similar diagnosis there are many ups and downs. Ryker and his family will need as much support, positive energy and prayers as possible. Siblings: FOUR SIBLINGS! Trett-BOY Jadd-BOY BrayLEE-GIRL Addi-GIRL
Baby Ella Wirth 3 months old Diagnosis: Neuroblastoma Story: On December 6th 2011, Ella was diagnosed with Neurblastoma, a very aggressive form of cancer that develops from nerve tissue. Currently she has a tumor on her spine the size of a tennis ball that is making it very difficult and very painful for her to move. It is pushing on her lungs and trachea, making it impossible, at this time, to breathe without a ventilator. Ella recently had Surgery to 1) to put in a central line for the chemo 2) to do a biopsy to see what stage the cancer is in 3) to test her bone marrow. However, once they were in, he was not able to get a central line in. The tumor was so large that the veins are all flat instead of round. He was able to get a temporary line into the groin so that they can still give baby Ella chemo. At this point they had to make the decision of whether they should do the chemo without confirmation of what stage the cancer is in; because she had lost too much blood and needed a transfusion. He was afraid that the tumor might bleed and she had already lost too much blood. So they of course gave Ella a transfusion and decided to go ahead and do the chemo to try to get the tumor to start shrinking. She will have to stay on a breathing tube for now because of the damage the tumor has done to the trachea and lungs. The doctor said she is "belly breathing", breathing from the belly instead of the lungs. She is handling chemo like a champ. They started feeding her by NG tube through her nose and so far she is keeping it down. She is very puffy and swollen from all the fluids pumped into her body. Her little body is going through so much in so little time, but she's a champ! I've got more encouraging news and updates! First of all, Ella can now roll over! This is huge. Before, she could only get her upper body turned, but her lower body would just lay still. She can roll both ways, from tummy to back and from back to tummy! On the 28th of February, Ella saw the Dr. and got an x-ray. The x-ray was to determine the course of sedation for her upcoming scans. They've been very concerned about her airway, so they've had to put a breathing tube in in the past to make sure when she was sedated she wouldn't stop breathing. However, the sedation team determined she would only need general anesthesia for her scans!! No breathing tube!! Not only will this be not as hard on her body, but this means the tumor is shrinking and they're not as concerned about her airway! YES! After all of these surgeries and struggles, it was concluded TODAY that the tumor has shrunk tremendously!! It is a fifth of the size that it was in some areas, and half the size that it was in others. Her bone marrow is clean! However, there is still a piece too big in her spinal cord. It's not that they can't remove it, or that the surgery would be life threatening. But they would have to remove too much of her spine that she would have growth problems the rest of her life. So she needs 4 more chemo treatments before they'll do surgery to correct this issue. We're at the hospital now getting her first chemo treatment for this new issue. WHAT A CUTIE PATOOTIE!! LETS SEND THEM HER A BEAUTIFUL BASKET OF GREAT BABY TOYS AND COMFORT ITEMS! You can follow Ella's Story Here: https://www.facebook.com/​pages/​Praying-For-Ella-Wirth/​305742592789674?sk=wall
Jake the Leukemia Slayer! Jacob was diagnosed with high risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) on December 2, 2010 and will be in treatment until the spring of 2014. As of right now, his treatment can't be given as 100% chemo yet because my liver numbers are high so dr a says to stay taking my 75% for another week and then check labs again to see what to do guess i need to come up with a low liver numbers dance this week haha i take my once a week methotrexate that kind of makes me feel yucky so mom gives me zofran for a couple of days to help me feel better Amidst having cancer, Jacob has been working hard bringing gifts to children with cancer, continually raise money for cancer research, and advocate other warriors like me everyday! Things he likes: games and animals, and playing with his brother Jordon You can follow updates here: https://www.facebook.com/​TheLeukemiaSlayer?sk=wall
Nayelis Riviera 5 years old Diagnosis: Acute Myeloid Leukemia Story: Nayelis was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (M7) on June 17, 2009, at the tender age of 8 1/2 months old. She was immediately started on a chemotherapy regiment, and quickly went into remission after the first cycle. But because the subtype of AML she has, it's been difficult to get into remission after a relapse, Nayelis was given three more cycles of chemo and then had a cord blood transplant on October 30th, 2009 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in NY, NY. The transplant was successful, and after 5 months being away she was allowed to return home. In April of 2010, Nayelis became sick, and we were later informed that she had relapsed. Not only did the cancer return in spots of her body, but a chloroma (tumor) had also formed in the nasal cavity/sinus area. Not only did she have to start chemotherapy again, but she also underwent direct radiation. She received 6 cycles of chemotherapy and 12 sessions of radiation. As of November 2010, Nayelis went into remission. On April 25, 2011, We were informed that Nayelis has relapsed. The cancer is back. She's been admitted at Yale New Haven Hospital for further treatment. This is her third fight against this evil disease. Nayelis was admitted to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center on September 1, 2011 to get her ready for a 2nd cord blood transplant that took place on September 9, 2011. March 9, 2012 marked 6 months post transplant for Nayelis! And while we have encountered some bumps along the way, they have been minor. She's doing good and the doctors are very happy with her progress! Nayelis is a true soldier. Through out her journey, she always puts up a fight with a smile on her face! Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers as she continues to fight this battle. PLEASE HELP ME SEND THIS CUTIE SOME GREAT GIFTS!! SHE DESERVES THIS FOR HAVING TO FIGHT OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN! Sibling: 1 brother Nandy SHE LOOOOVES THE DISNEY PRINCESSES!
Emma Bulich 5 Years Old Diagnosis: T-Cell Acute Lympoblastic Leukemia Emma was diagnosed with T Cell ALL Leukemia on Christmas Day, which occurred after Going to the ER on Christmas Eve because I wasn't feeling well. Soon after, I was taken by AMBULANCE to Children's Hospital in Norfolk, Virgina. I had some tests done and the doctors found a mass that was across my heart and other masses on my liver and spleen. I was in the Pediatric ICU for five days and then the cancer ward for 2 days. I was discharged on New Years Day. I still go to a special clinic for Chemo every monday to keep me feeling better, and I still take some medicine at home too! SIBLINGS! Emma is part of a nice blended family, she has a total of 5 BROTHERS, Sammy 9, Matthew 7, Micha 3, EJ 2, AND Kaleb 10 MONTHS. She also has 1 sister named Kalani, age 5 THINGS SHE LIKES: EMMA LIKES ANIMALS, AT THE PRESENT TIME PUPPIES ARE HER FAVORITE She loves playing with baby dolls and sometimes uses her baby brother Kaleb as a baby too! EMMA LOVES ALL THING PRINCESS THE DISNEY PRINCESSES ARE HER FAVORITE. You can follow Emma's story here: https://www.facebook.com/​pages/Prayers-for-EMMA/​256724961022812?sk=info
Drue Storm Diagnosis: Leukemia More to come...
Molly Adair 3 Years Old Diagnosis: Stage 4 Neuroblastoma Story: Molly has had breathing issues since September of 2010. She started on medication to help with this, and had tubes put in her ears to help with this. She continued to have difficulties. In January of 2011, Molly got very sick. The dr. ordered a chest xray. She was diagnosed with pnemonia. She was given antiobiotics and asked to come back in four weeks to do a follow up chest xray. We were delayed about 2 weeks in the chest xray due to all the crazy oklahoma blizzards. When we went back the pnemonia had cleared up but the dr. was still concerned about one spot. The radiologist reviewed the results and believed it could be a bronchial cyst. They ordered a ct scan. Molly had the CT scan on Feb 21st. We didn't get the results until almost two days later, at her pediatricians office. It wasn't a cyst...but a large mass. They believed it to either be Neuroblastoma or Lymphoma. We were referred to Children's Hospital in Oklahoma City to an oncologist. We met with the oncologist the next day. She believed it to possibly be one of three things, ganglioneuroma, ganglioneuroblastoma or neuroblastoma. Biopsy scheduled for the next day. The biopsy went well. Very hard to see little molly hurting,but she was truly one tough little cookie. Molly stayed in the hospital for two and half days. She went home and late the next day, Mom and Dad got the results..... Neuroblastoma... .malignant... cancer. Our world truly dropped. She has been diagnosed with stage 4 because a small percentage was found in her bone marrow. She will need to have lots of tests done before treatment can begin. Next day...Bone Marrow Testing and the Tests have begun. Waiting, Waiting and lots of Treatment to come. We truly are blessed to have so much family support all over the country. We know that God will take care of our sweet baby girl. We hold onto that faith everyday and believe!!! We also know that her two older brothers...Matthew who is 8 and Jack who is 5 pray for her everyday to get better as well. We also pray for them during this time. You call Follow Molly's story here: http://​www.caringbridge.org/visit/​mollyadair/mystory