Update:

Nicholas finished treatment on 11/18/2010. He will continue to go for blood work for the next 3 years. He is still in remission.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

The Shannon Family -- We are Done with Radiation

Hello All. We have completed our CNS therapy phase for Nick. He did and even brought home his radiation mask. He knows he will still have to go to clinic and receive more chemo... the shots will be the surprise to him. As Greg said, we have been trying to say thanks to the many people supporting us and if we can't write to you here, we hope you all know how much we appreciate the support. I have to give some big hugs and thanks to Meaghan and Randi at Stop & Shop. Together they held a raffle (for Pats tickets) in their office to benefit Nick. Without even knowing Nick, they rounded up the tickets from Paul at Snyder's (thank you to) and posted signs for everyone to contribute. 2 sets of tickets were given away and as a surprise Snyder's gave mom and dad 2 tickets to join the winners. The philanthropic spirit has truly brought the joy of giving a real meaning.
Of course, how can I end this without saying thanks to the SCJ crew again. Sandy and I made some more meals last weekend and I can't wait to share them with family who helps out babysitting our 3 boys. As we get ready for Christmas, we hope everyone will enjoy the Holiday and the time they can spend with their family.

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

1 day of radiation left

Hope this finds all well. Nick has one last day of radiation tomorrow with an intrathecal lumbar puncture. He has gradually become more understanding of the procedure and getting put to sleep every morning. We as a family are truly looking forward to Nick not having to be subject to this treatment anymore. We will not know how adverse the side affects are until at least 5 weeks from now and some may not show up for years. Nick has been feeling great and wanting to do too much. It is hard to tell a 4 year old to slow down. Karen and I continue to owe great thanks to many people. Karen will update and thank some, but it would be remiss of me to not mention the fantastic people at Prospect Hill Country Day School. Kristen and her staff put all the procedes from the holiday show (in which Nick participated and what a joy it was for Karen and I) to Nicks fund. When Kristen told us about what she was planning we were stunned to see the event the way the women were all wearing the orange ribbons was mind blowing. I thought I was just about done crying....not quite I guess. These of course are tears of joy! Thank you Kristen and all the wonderful people at Prospect. You are truly more than just a great place for kids to grow, you are family and we love you all!!! Take care and we will give an update soon, but for now just finish your shopping the economy needs you!!! Oh, quick corrrection from my 1st post. The asperiginase shot that Nick is receiving is once a week so he got his second shot monday and all is well. So, all in all he will have 30 shots for this protocol.
Bye!