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Friday, September 25, 2009 2:22 PM CDT
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and September 12 is Childhood Cancer Awareness Day!
HELP US IN OUR UNIFIED EFFORT TO CONQUER CHILDHOOD CANCER.
GET YOUR GOLD ON FOR THE KIDS!!!
Please let your friends and family know that this is one way they can show their support during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September.
New 2009 Team Unite
Gear Now Available!
Click Here!
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Please send a message asking the American Cancer Society to recognize Childhood Cancer Awareness Month on their homepage during the month of September. It is still September but they already have Breast Cancer Awareness on their site’s banner. Please let them know how much we respect the fight for a cure for breast cancer but that we would sincerely appreciate it if they would recognize Gold Ribbons and Childhood Cancer Awareness during the month of September. We know many families affected by childhood cancer have done the Relay for Life events and would appreciate their support this month and every September to come!
Incidence
Nearly 30 f U.S. population is under the age of 20. In this age group:
•Approximately 12,400 are diagnosed with cancer each year.
•In 1998, about 2500 died of cancer.
About one in 300 boys and one in 333 girls will develop cancer before the age of 20. (The distribution of boys and girls diagnosed varies by type of childhood cancer.)
The incidence, or frequency that cancer is diagnosed, has risen since the 1970s for some types of childhood cancer, but rates have been fairly stable in more recent years.
PLEASE VISIT WWW.TEAMUNITE.NET or www.curesearch.org to learn how you can make a difference today !!!
Friday, August 7, 2009 10:53 PM CDT
My Sweet Sissy Girl-
I'll write more later, but just cannot stop thinking about you and your sweet self. We are at your favorite place for your "Sweet 16." We wouldn't be anywhere else. We feel you in our hearts and souls even though you are not here with us in the flesh. Addison and I bought you a car yesterday. Okay, so it fit on top of the Hello Kitty cake and not in our driveway, but it is cute and you would love it. Addy really wanted to buy you a hot pink or tie dye car but I told her we would have to settle for the VW love bug, because it is all we could find.
We all miss you so much and our hearts still ache and long for your presence. But we know (thanks to God and Jesus) that you are saving a spot for us in Heaven and we will see you again on the other side.
Thank you for sending SO many signs to your momma this week...I know you know how much that means to me!!!!
You will always be my baby no matter how long we are physically apart.
I love you forever and always my doodlebug-
Mom
Monday, April 13, 2009 10:19 PM CDT
Sorry this update was written yesterday but I could not get my CB password to work.
HE IS RISEN !!!!!!!!!!!! HAPPY EASTER !!!!!!!
Praise God for we know what an incredibly wonderful day in Heaven this day is.
We are grateful that our daughter is there to see the glory and goodness of this day. No eye has seen, no ear has heard….and we can only imagine what it is like to fully experience the wonderful celebration they must have in Heaven on Easter Sunday.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family of Adam Wisdom as he entered the kingdom of Heaven Saturday. Our hearts break for them, as we know all too well what they are experiencing and enduring at this time. It is indescribable. The pain that a mother feels to lose the child that she carried for nine months, a child that she has grown to love more and more each and every day of her life. It is a bond that cannot be described adequately in words. Please keep their family in your prayers or express your condolences in their guestbook at www.caringbridge.org/visit/adamwisdom
Proud Volunteer and Member of Team Unite! Many Families | One Cause!
www.teamunite.net
Friday, February 6, 2009 9:52 PM CST
HAPPY HALF BIRTHDAY ALEXANDRIA (she would be
15 1/2...sweet 16 in August)
HAPPY HALF BIRTHDAY ADDISON....9 1/2...the exact age Alexandria was when she passed away.
HAPPY 2nd Birthday Harrison (on Sunday the 8th) Cannot believe he is such a big boy !!!
Alexandria's 6th Angelversary is on February 16th. Cannot comprehend how it has been 6 years without my sweet daughter here on this earth. Please keep us in your prayers as this is always a difficult time.
Please go to the website:
www.caringbridge.org/visit/angelsforalex
The story of this courageous young lady and her entire family is amazing.
www.teamunite.com
Wednesday, December 31, 2008 11:50 PM CST
HAPPY NEw YEar to all !!!
Grant and Addison are rocking out to guitar hero...I just rocked Harrison to sleep a few hours ago (and almost rocked myself to sleep)...the boys are at a lock-in at school....this mommy misses all her babies being under one roof for New Year's Eve...I suppose this is the next chapter of our lives with teens and tots...thank goodness we have Harrison !!! Surprised I even made it to midnight as I usually retire well before the clock strikes 12 and the boys stay up with Grant.
Addison, Grant and I just now watched the ball drop right where Addison and I stood this summer on our "girls trip." She was so excited especially to stay up so late....Almost time now....momma needs her sleep....baby wakes early :)
A HAPPY, BLESSED aND HEALTHY 2009 to everyone !!!
alison
Thursday, December 25, 2008 10:38 AM CST
We wanted to wish you all a very Merry CHRISTmas !! Happy Birthday Jesus !!
Can you all even imagine the celebrating they do in Heaven on this day?!?!?
Please say extra prayers for those families who are either struggling with their child's health or are spending one of the first Christmas' without their child. They need our prayers the most.
God Bless you all-
Alison
Thursday, November 6, 2008 12:20 AM CST
Eight years ago tomorrow, November 7th, 2000....diagnosis day....
We miss you so much sweet sissy girl!!!
Posted below is some information about Ethan. Ethan is the second child in the Blankenship family to have HLH and need a life-saving Bone Marrow Transplant. This is actually Ethan's second BMT as he has relapsed a few weeks ago with his disease. The Blankenship's were in transplant with their daughter, Kristan, 6 years ago when we were in transplant with Alexandria. We have been friends ever since. It is hard for me to fathom going through their third BMT. This is such an incredibly difficult experience on every level...emotionally, physically, spiritually and financially. I am asking you all to PLEASE consider buying a "Ethan's Hope" bracelet, which is a fundraiser that the family has put together to try and offset costs not covered by insurance. They will have to live in St. Louis for 100 days after they are released from the bmt unit. They will stay in a hotel so that all of their five children can be together which will be good for all of them.
Please visit their website to see pictures of the bracelets and place your order. PLEASE PRAY for Ethan and his entire family as well...THANK YOU !!!!
www.caringbridge.org/visit/ethanlee
Ethan's HOPE
*Online BENEFIT*
Ethan will be going back for a second bone marrow transplant as his first one has failed. His disease relapsed and this is his HOPE at a second chance at life. We will have to relocate the family for a few months, in order to stay near the hospital for the 100 day critical period after the transplant. Our entire family is making these bracelets in order to offset costs related to the transplant, lodging, and related expenses.
About the bracelets: The black on the letters represents the disease and all the uncertainties, the white is the pure spirit, the peace, the prayer- GOD, the colors are like the rainbow God sent representing- HOPE.
***************
*-Just e-mail me your address. dlblank@showme.net Send a donation of $5 to this address-
Ethan's HOPE
PO BOX 4221
Scott City, MO 63780
and you will receive your bracelet in the mail ASAP, along with a surprise from Ethan. * Thank you again for your support.*
Please pray this bmt is a success and that our son will be a long term survivor!
HOPE Bracelets
God Bless You!!!!!!!
Saturday, September 13, 2008 1:30 PM CDT
TODAY IS CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS DAY !!!!!!!!!!!!
HERE ARE SOME INTERESTING FACTS TAKEN FROM Jessica Randall's site.
Please visit www.teamunite.net to learn how a group of parents, whose children are angels or still fighting this disease, are banding together to make a difference.
Childhood Cancer Facts
** Childhood cancers are the #1 disease killer of children — more than asthma, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and pediatric AIDS combined.
** One in every 330 children will develop cancer before the age of 19.
** The National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) federal budget was $4.6 billion. Of that, breast cancer received 12 prostate cancer received 7 and all 12 major groups of pediatric cancers combined received less than 3
Childhood cancer is not a single disease, but rather many different types that fall into 12 major categories. Common adult cancers are extremely rare in children, yet many cancers are almost exclusively found in children.
** One out of every five children diagnosed with cancer dies.
Common cancer symptoms in children — fever, swollen glands, anemia, bruises and infection — are often suspected to be, and at the early stages are treated as, other childhood illnesses.
** Three out of every five children diagnosed with cancer suffer from long-term or late onset side effects.
Childhood Cancers are cancers that primarily affect children, teens, and young adults. When cancer strikes children and young adults it affects them differently than it would an adult.
** Attempts to detect childhood cancers at an earlier stage, when the disease would react more favorably to treatment, have largely failed. Young patients often have a more advanced stage of cancer when first diagnosed. (Approximately 20 f adults with cancer show evidence the disease has spread, yet almost 80 f children show that the cancer has spread to distant sites at the time of diagnosis).
** Cancer in childhood occurs regularly, randomly, and spares no ethnic group, socioeconomic class, or geographic region.
** The cause of most childhood cancers are unknown and at present, cannot be prevented. (Most adult cancers result from lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, occupation, and other exposure to cancer-causing agents)
.
** Nationally, childhood cancer is 20 times more prevalent than pediatric AIDS yet pediatric AIDS receives four times the funding that childhood cancer receives.
On the average, 12,500 children and adolescents in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancer each year.
On the average, one in every four elementary schools has a child with cancer.
** On the average, every high school in America has two students who are a current or former cancer patient.
In the U.S., about 46 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer every single school day. That's about the equivalent of two entire classrooms.
While the cancer death rate has dropped more dramatically for children than for any other age group, 2,300 children and teenagers will die each year from cancer.
Today, up to 75 f the children with cancer can be cured, yet, some forms of childhood cancers have proven so resistant to treatment that, in spite of research, a cure is illusive.
** Several childhood cancers continue to have a very poor prognosis, including: brain stem tumors, metastatic sarcomas, relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and relapsed non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
So, now you're saying, "Wow! That's absolutely ridiculous ... what can I do to HELP???" (right?) :)
Here are some things you can do this month (and ALL YEAR ROUND, for the most part!) to support Childhood Cancer Awareness. None of these things involves any financial burden of any kind (except for eating at Chili's ... but hey, ya gotta eat right??)
1) Join team unite to become part of a unified voice against childhood cancer
join people against childhood cancer (PAC2) to learn of efforts being made around the world to find a cure, raise awareness, and lend support
2) Tell everyone you know (and even those you don't know) how you, or someone you love, has been touched by childhood cancer
donate blood
3) Eat at Chili’s on mon., sept. 29, when chili’s will donate 100 percent of profits from participating restaurant sales to st. jude
4) WEAR GOLD FOR THE KIDS www.cafepress.com/teamunite
(you really don't need to click that link -- i know you've got SOMETHING gold in your closet!!!!!)
5) Register to become a bone marrow donor
let a family that's been touched by childhood cancer know you STILL CARE and haven't forgotten about their struggles ... let a family of an angel know their child remains in your heart
6) Sign the CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER petition (and ask your friends and family to sign, as well!)
read this article on Forbes.com
offer to volunteer at a local childhood cancer center
Thursday, September 4, 2008 11:03 PM CDT
*** SEPTEMBER IS CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!!!!***
***** MAKE HISTORY WITH US ******
TUNE IN SEPTEMBER 5TH
8PM ET/PT 7:00 p.m. central time
STAND UP TO CANCER
Tonight, over 50 of the most renowned personalities in TV, film, sports and music will come together to make history. In an unprecedented television event, NBC, ABC, and CBS will simultaneously devote 1 hour of commercial-free prime time to raise funds for the fight against cancer.
A spectacular line up of talent including Jennifer Aniston, James Taylor, Scarlett Johansson, Meryl Streep, David Cook, Christina Applegate, Lance Armstrong, Jack Black, Kirsten Dunst, Charles Barkley, America Ferrera, Halle Berry, Hilary Swank, Forrest Whitaker, Jimmy Fallon, Keanu Reeves * will make personal appearances on the show. These celebrities and more will educate you, move you and entertain you. They will also be on hand to answer your calls in the celebrity phone bank.
ONE NIGHT ONE STAGE
The premiere TV performance of “Just Stand Up” – the star studded charitable single in support of Stand Up To Cancer will be performed by legendary recording artists Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Rihanna, Fergie, Sheryl Crow, Miley Cyrus, Melissa Etheridge, Ashanti, Natasha Bedingfield, Keyshia Cole, Ciara, Leona Lewis, LeAnn Rimes, and Carrie Underwood.
Don’t miss out!
Tune in September 5th at 7 pm on ABC, NBC and CBS!
COME TOGETHER AND MAKE CANCER HISTORY
To celebrate and watch this unprecendented outpouring of entertainment and music for cancer research, use our Evite invitations to host a viewing party. Gather your friends and make it an unforgettable evening. Or use a SU2C Evite invitation to share news of the show and encourage friends and family to watch, wherever they are.
* More extraordinary talent who will be making appearances on September 5th include:
Abigail Breslin
Angie Harmon
Brad Garrett
Brian Williams
Casey Affleck
Charlie Gibson
Charlize Theron
Christina Ricci
Dana Delany
Danica Patrick
David Spade
Diane Keaton
Don Newcomb
Elizabeth Berkley
Elizabeth Edwards
Ellen Degeneres
Fran Drescher
Goran Visnjic
Jennifer Garner
Jessica Alba
Jimmy Smits
Jon Favreau
Josh Brolin
Josh Peck
Joshua Bell
Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Kate Bosworth
Katie Couric
Mandy Moore
Marg Helgenberger
Marissa Winokur
Masi Oka
Mekhi Phifer
Cast of:
30 Rock
CSI Miami
Lost
Please watch...let's make history!!!!
Monday, August 4, 2008 11:18 PM CDT
HAPPY 9th BIRTHDAY ADDISON !!!! (Today)
HAPPY 15th BIRTHDAY ALEXANDRIA !!!!!! Wednesday, Aug. 6th
We love you and miss you sweet sissy girl !!!!!!
Sunday, July 27, 2008 6:29 PM CDT
President Bush Signs Conquer Childhood Cancer Act !!!!!
President Bush Signs Conquer Childhood Cancer Act!!!!!!!
Bethesda, MD 20814
July 29 2008
Children with Cancer and Their Families to Benefit
CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation is pleased to announce that President George W. Bush has signed into law H.R. 1553, the Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act, at a ceremony in the Oval Office.
This legislation was named in memory of Caroline Pryce Walker, daughter of Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-OH), who succumbed to neuroblastoma in 1999 at age nine, and will dramatically increase federal investment into childhood cancer research.
The bill passed the United States House of Representatives on June 12th by a 416-0 vote and in the Senate by unanimous consent on July 16th.
The original co-sponsors for this landmark bi-partisan legislation include Congresswoman Pryce, Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Norm Coleman (R-MN).
The bill authorizes $30 million annually over five years, providing funding for collaborative pediatric cancer clinical trials research, to create a population-based national childhood cancer database, and to further improve public awareness and communication regarding available treatment and research for children with cancer and their families.
The Conquer Childhood Cancer Act allows for translation of the very best research discoveries into clinical evaluation and practice, in order to improve the cure rates for all children with cancer,stated Gregory Reaman, MD, Chair of the Children's Oncology Group.
"On behalf of my colleagues in the Children's Oncology Group and the children with cancer and their families who are our partners in clinical research, we thank President Bush and our nations leaders. Only research cures childhood cancer.
CureSearch exclusively supports the life-saving research of the Childrens Oncology Group, the worlds premier cancer research collaborative. Treating 90 percent of children with cancer, the Children's Oncology Group includes more than 5,000 experts in childhood cancer research and treatment, located at more than 200 leading childrens and university hospitals across North America.
At the signing, Pryce stated that for any child or family who is embroiled in the fight against pediatric cancer, today is a cause for celebration and renewed hope. At long last, we will be harnessing our nations vast resources and expertise to put an end to a scourge that takes the lives of more than 2,300 children every year.
We are grateful to the President and to the United States Congress for their leadership in making the cure for childhood cancer an urgent national priority, stated Stacy Pagos Haller, Executive Director of CureSearch. Passage of this historic bill gives attention and support that is long overdue and much needed.
About CureSearch
CureSearch seeks to conquer childhood cancer, conquer it sooner, conquer it fully and for all time. Through public education, advocacy and fundraising, the National Childhood Cancer Foundation, a non-profit 501 (c) (3), supports the work of the Children's Oncology Group (COG), the worlds premier pediatric cancer research collaborative. This network of more than 5,000 healthcare professionals dedicates their lives to finding answers and sharing results. More than 12,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year, and more than 40,000 children and adolescents are currently in treatment. Only research cures cancer. For more information, visit www.CureSearch.org.
Sally Charney (sally.charney@curesearch.org)
Director of Public Education
CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation
4600 East West Highway - Suite 600
Bethesda, MD 20814
Phone : 240-235-2205
Fax : 301-718-0047
Below is a great message that I urge you to PLEASE PLEASE respond to...your support is greatly appreciated!!!
This summer has been amazing and awesome...we will update with pics soon...God Bless you all and thank you for checking on us!!!!
Hi,
I am the Dad of AJ, a 14 year old cancer victim. I wanted to make you aware (maybe again) and enlist your help for the Cure Childhood Cancer petition! Our goal is to have a one-hour special on network TV devoted solely to CHILDHOOD CANCER to raise awareness. And publish a parent-written book about our miraculous children, with all proceeds going to CureSearch.
The GREAT news is that CureSearch (story on the Petition), LIVESTRONG(story on the Petition) and Alex’s Lemonade Stands have ALL written about the Petition on their websites! And TX Children’s and DUKE have both allowed us to setup paper versions inside the hospitals! So this is a SERIOUS EFFORT AND WE ARE MAKING HEADWAY! Right now we are at over 11,000 signatures! But we need your help! If you can please make your readers aware, email it around, and give just a little publicity, I know we can make this happen!
Thanks again,
AJs Dad
CarePage - AJsSpace
Childhood Cancer - Petition to Raise Awareness and Funding for a CURE!
AJs Dad
Wake Forest, NC - Sunday, July 27, 2008 9:34 AM CDT
Monday, July 21, 2008 8:08 AM CDT
Please Read the importnant update below as we are trying very hard to get this through the proper channels so that more money is available to the researchers, and cures will be found. We will see fewer children dying of this dreadful disease of cancer....what a wonderful thing for us all to witness.
Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act Passes UNANIMOUSLY in the United States House of Representatives!!!!!!!!!!
(click for full story!!!!)
CureSearch Praises Passage of Landmark "Conquer Childhood Cancer Act" by Unanimous Consent in the United States Senate
Please pray for these warriors whose family and friends make up TEAM UNITE.
Those in battle to achieve remission and our precious warriors who are now our angels of inspiration!
Please take a moment to send your prayers for strength to these special people who have joined forces to make a difference for the children of our country.
Thank you so much for doing what you do!
God bless TEAM UNITE!
Team Henry
Team AJ Team Aleigha Team Alexa Team Alexandria Team Alyssa Team Austin
Team Ben Team Caitlin Team Carly Team Caroline Team Chloe Team Cole
Team Conner Team Dae Hon Team Dakota Team Drew Team Gina Team Grant
Team Hannah Team Jasmine Team Jessica E Team Jessica R Team Kayla Team Kelly
Team Kennedy Team Kieran Team Lisa Team Matthew Team Meghan Team Nathan Team Nina
Team Noah Team Rachel Team Ryan Team Sierra Team Sydney Team Wyatt
Get Involved…It is an EASY and FREE way to help the children!
God bless Team Unite for joining forces to move forward to a cure!
Who is TEAM UNITE?
Team Unite arose from the Henry Tucker CaringBridge site and is comprised of volunteers from families around the country who have been impacted by the devastating diagnosis of having a child with cancer. Team Unite also consists of friends of these families as well as a conglomeration of concerned citizens. The result is a genuine grassroots effort with the purpose of raising awareness and securing funding so that a cure for childhood cancer can be found as quickly as possible!
If YOUR TEAM is interested in joining OUR TEAM, please email Dianne Killian: dkillian@helmsbriscoe.com.
What is the Mission of TEAM UNITE?
Team Unite strategically contacts members of congress on a daily basis requesting that they cosponsor and vote yes in support of “The Conquer Childhood Cancer Act (S.911 and H.R.1553).” Our goal is to witness S.911/H.R.1553 signed into Law during the term of the 110th Congress.
How YOU Can Help
Join us for our ongoing strategies. Each individual chooses the amount of time they are able to dedicate to our effort and then we call, write, and/or email as many of the listed members of congress as we can. These are congressional leaders who are not currently cosponsors of S911. Please note: no minimum or maximum exists.
Every call, email or letter that you choose to make, send, or write will be helpful regardless of when you make the call. So, do what you can, when you can, and please forward this message along to others who you feel could help our cause.
Together we can get the support needed to move S.911 quickly through this process and into Law, GO TEAM UNITE! We needed this to happen a long time ago, so thank you for all you’re doing!
CURRENT STRATEGY—#28
What an accomplishment for the children this week. Team Unite is still reeling from the news! Congratulations on your part in this historic legislation and win for the kids! Each of you has been involved in so many ways including, Team Unite! Together, our unified voices have been heard and another unanimous consent victory in the Senate is the reward! To those who have children/loved ones that have battled this beast and to those who will not be spared the pain and hardships associated with the devastating diagnosis of childhood cancer, it is in your honor that we will fight on!
I am awaiting some facts that will help us determine the next steps but for now it is time to focus on the press, with this news and the need for the major networks to do something HUGE this year for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. As many of you are aware, the major networks are teaming up and doing a, “Stand up to Cancer” event September 5th . Let’s make sure that ABC, CBS and NBC are aware that September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Let your voices and incredible stories of bravery be heard! We need a cure PRONTO so let’s ride the wave of this exciting news regarding S911 and get the press the children deserve. MORE AWARENESS = MORE RESEARCH $$$$$. Thank you to CURESEARCH for all you do to secure funding and move us toward a cure!
Please write to your local/national newspapers and TV New stations/programs asking them to do something to recognize September as Childhood Cancer Awareness month. And in addition discuss the “Stand up to Cancer” event in your letters to ABC, CBS and NBC.
Thank you for what you are doing to support the kids!
Links for a few media outlets you may contact. Please send to any you feel would benefit our cause! We need to spread the news to get the recognition that children’s cancer deserves in September!
Contact your local ABC Affiliate station | Contact your local Fox Affiliate station
Contact your local NBC Affiliate station | Contact your local CBS Affilitate station
Ellen | Oprah | CNN
Sample Letter to Press
My name is _____________________ and the reason I am contacting you is to ask that you please make your audience aware that September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month. The fact that September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and that Gold Ribbons are the symbol of this goes largely unrecognized. Please help make sure that everyone is aware of this from now on. Just visit the cancer unit of your local Children's Hospital and I guarantee you will meet children who will inspire you and change your life. These brave young warriors deserve our support and more importantly, they’ve earned it!
(Insert your personal story here of how you’ve been affected!)
What topic could be more important than saving the lives of our children? Please report and raise awareness and ask that people do something special for the kids. Every year cancer kills more young people between 1 and 20 years of age than asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and AIDS, combined yet in the past 20 years only one new cancer drug has been approved for pediatric use. In addition, only 3 percent of the budget of the National Cancer Institute goes toward childhood cancer research.
My request is that you help get the word out that the gold ribbon is the symbol for Childhood Cancer Awareness and request that each individual consider wearing a gold ribbon in support of the children out there fighting for their lives. You have the power to communicate this to the public and we are asking for your support and help. Thank you!
Sincerely,
_______________________________________
Here is the CureSearch Press Release that you can forward and post!
My name is _____________________ and the reason I am contacting you is to ask that you please make your audience aware of the following press release from CureSearch regarding the unanimous consent for S911 in the Senate!
CureSearch Praises Passage of Landmark
"Conquer Childhood Cancer Act"
by Unanimous Consent in the United States Senate
Children with Cancer and Their Families to Benefit from Legislation
July 17, 2008 (Bethesda, MD) - CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation salutes the United States Senate for its passage of the Conquer Childhood Cancer Act, which promises to significantly increase federal investment into childhood cancer research.
The bill, first introduced in the Senate by Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Norm Coleman (R-MN), passed by unanimous consent, echoing a similar 416-0 vote June 12th in the U.S. House of Representatives. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) requested, and received, this unanimous consent on the Senate floor.
The bill authorizes $30 million annually over five years, providing funding for collaborative pediatric cancer clinical trials research, to create a population-based national childhood cancer database, and to further improve public awareness and communication regarding available treatment and research for children with cancer and their families.
"Too many young people's lives were cut short by cancer, but their hopes were not," said Reed. "We have made great advances in treating cancer, but there is still much more to be done. The Conquer Childhood Cancer Act will deliver much needed hope and support to children and families battling cancer and more resources for vital pediatric cancer research programs."
Senator Coleman, an original sponsor, noted that the legislation passed unanimously in both Houses of Congress, and lauded the overwhelming bi-partisan support of the measure, which addresses a critical national health issue that is finally receiving the attention it deserves.
"Passage of the Conquer Childhood Cancer Act in the Senate is a monumental step in the fight against childhood cancer," said Coleman. "I am proud that my colleagues were able to come together and pass legislation that will provide the resources to not only support children and families with childhood cancer, but also find a cure."
CureSearch supports the life-saving research of the Children's Oncology Group, the world's premier cancer research collaborative. Treating 90 percent of children with cancer, the Children's Oncology Group includes more than 5,000 experts in childhood cancer research and treatment, located at more than 200 leading children's and university hospitals across North America.
"The Conquer Childhood Cancer Act allows for translation of the very best research discoveries into clinical evaluation and practice, in order to improve the cure rates for all children with cancer," stated Gregory Reaman, MD, Chair of the Children's Oncology Group.
"On behalf of my colleagues in the Children's Oncology Group and the children with cancer and their families who are our partners in clinical research, we thank our leaders in the Senate. Only research cures childhood cancer."
"We applaud the leadership of Senators Reed and Coleman and their colleagues in the Senate who through the passage of this bill have made finding the cure for childhood cancer an urgent national priority. Together with their colleagues in the House, Congress has given childhood cancer the attention and support that is long overdue and much needed," said Stacy Pagos Haller, Executive Director of CureSearch.
Having passed both the House of Representatives and the Senate unanimously, the bill now heads to the White House, where President Bush is expected to sign it into law.
As noted in Strategy 26, the appropriations were being marked up this week so Team Unite will update ASAP to see what else we can do in the short term or if this has already occurred. Here is the Defense committee contacts and information:
Defense appropriation subcommittee, the Energy and Water appropriation subcommittee, and the Labor Health and Human Services appropriation subcommittee.
The largest request and the appropriation bill most likely to pass before the end of this year is the Defense appropriation bill. This bill is being marked up next week! Let’s all pull together and write, email, call, etc. these individuals requesting significant funding in the FY 2009 Defense Appropriations bill for clinical trials for pediatric cancer research.
Chairman Murtha 2423 Rayburn HOB Washington, D.C. 20515 P:(202) 225-2065 F:(202) 225-5709
Email Chairman Murtha
Ranking Member Bill Young 2407 Rayburn HOB Washington D.C. 20515 (202) 225-5961
Email Ranking Member Bill Young
Chairman Sen. Inouye (HI) 722 Hart Building Washington D.C. 202-224-3934
Email Chairman Inouye
Ranking Member Sen. Stevens (AK) 522 Hart Building Washington, D.C. (202) 224-3004
Email Ranking Member Stevens
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
20 million – Army RDTE- To support pediatric cancer research and clinical trials (the other 10 million will be from other appropriations we may target in a future strategy)
The funding will be used to enhance important ongoing clinical trials, support the creation of significant, new clinical trials and prevent the discontinuation of critical childhood cancer trials, benefiting children of military families, civilian DOD employees, and other children afflicted with childhood cancer.
And, to support existing DOD translational research in high risk childhood cancer targeting new agents against highly resistant, poor prognosis diseases.
God Bless Team Unite!!!!
More updates will be on the way very soon with respect to appropriations. We are attaching the document that states where the money comes from and will update with next steps very soon. :)
H.R.1553
Title: To amend the Public Health Service Act to advance medical research and treatments into pediatric cancers, ensure patients and families have access to information regarding pediatric cancers and current treatments for such cancers, establish a national childhood cancer registry, and promote public awareness of pediatric cancer.
Sponsor: Rep Pryce, Deborah [OH-15] (introduced 3/15/2007) Cosponsors (229)
Related Bills: S.911
Latest Major Action: 7/16/2008 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate without amendment by Unanimous Consent.
House Reports: 110-706
Email dkillian@helmsbriscoe.com to join Team Unite and help us in the fight against childhood cancer
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Monday, June 30, 2008 2:25 PM CDT
We are home after being gone for 2 weeks to Florida and Mississippi to see my sister. Not quite sure why someone always has to get sick when we leave town (okay, only 2 of us this time, but some of us with multiple "issues"....that would be me)
This is a LONG update (I know I always say that) but it is important information, so please, please read it so that if you are able to write letters to Senators....(especially from OKLAHOMA !!!!) you can have the info. It is all very confusing and well, nauseating quite frankly, that someone would be so against HELPING KIDS WITH CANCER and raising the necessary funds to do so. Have I mentioned how I am not fond of politics?!?!?
Grant will post pics soon....I think I say that a lot too.
I will have an update in the next few days about a fundraiser for Khalita Jones.
(please forward to other listservs etc),
I received your e mail with questions about all the goings on in the Senate related to the Conquer Childhood Cancer Act. Passing legislation is sometimes a messy business, especially in an election year. Below you will find the definitions for some of what is and will be happening with this bill as well as a link for additional information on filibusters and cloture motions. I have also included an article that appeared on June 18th in an on-line Hill newsletter. The article provides some background as to why we assume the hold that has been placed on our bill involves Senator Coburn and describes the challenge of bringing bills forward to floor for a vote when there is a hold.
In very brief terms, one or several Senators have placed a hold on our bill which means that he or they do not want the bill to reach the floor of the Senate to be considered and if the bill is brought to the floor, have indicated that there will be a filibuster. A filibuster is a way to delay a bill from coming up for a vote by engaging in non-stop debate. A filibuster can be stopped by invoking cloture which would then limit debate time and bring the bill for a vote after 30 hours of consideration. We believe the Senate majority leaders are planning to bring several bills up, file a cloture motion and pass our legislation despite the objection of one or several Senators.
Hold:
An informal practice by which a senator informs his or her floor leader that he or she does not wish a particular bill or other measure to reach the floor for consideration. The Majority Leader need not follow the senator's wishes but is on notice that the opposing senator may filibuster any motion to proceed to consider the measure.
Filibuster:
A time-delaying tactic associated with the Senate and used by a minority in an effort to delay, modify or defeat a bill or amendment that probably would pass if voted on directly. The most common method is to take advantage of the Senate’s rules permitting unlimited debate, but other forms of parliamentary maneuvering may be used. The stricter rules of the House make filibusters more difficult, but delaying tactics are employed occasionally through various procedural devices allowed by House rules.
Cloture:
The process by which a filibuster can be ended in the Senate other than by unanimous consent. A motion for cloture can apply to any measure before the Senate, including a proposal to change the chamber’s rules. A cloture motion requires the signatures of 16 senators to be introduced. To end a filibuster, the cloture motion must obtain the votes of three-fifths of the entire Senate membership (60 if there are no vacancies), except when the filibuster is against a proposal to amend the standing rules of the Senate and a two-thirds vote of senators present and voting is required. The cloture request is put to a roll-call vote one hour after the Senate meets on the second day following the introduction of the motion.
If approved, cloture limits each senator to one hour of debate. The bill or amendment in question comes to a final vote after 30 hours of consideration (including debate time it takes to conduct roll calls, quorum calls and other procedural motions.)
http://www.thecapitol.net/Research/images/CRS-RL30360.pdf
Democrats Target Coburn’s Holds
By Kathleen Hunter, CQ Staff
Senate Democrats are setting up a showdown with a thorn in their side: Oklahoma conservative Tom Coburn.
Majority Leader Harry Reid and other top Democrats have decided to bundle an undetermined number of bills that have at least one thing in common: Coburn has blocked them by exercising a hold.
Packaging the mostly unrelated measures would give Democrats a chance to illustrate one of their election themes: The majority must resort to extreme measures to move bills that would be passed easily if Republican obstructionists would allow votes.
“Bills that are non-controversial, that move the country forward, albeit in a small way, are being blocked, and we’re going to have to do something about that,” said Charles E. Schumer of New York, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.
The Democratic strategy, likely to play out during July, will test party loyalties. Republicans will have to decide whether to advance bills they support or stand behind Coburn as he demands the ability to debate and amend bills on the floor.
Coburn said Tuesday he is prepared to dig in his heels and make it tough for Democrats to pass their package unless he is permitted to offer amendments.
“The fact is, if they come to the floor it’s going to take a while to move it if we don’t get any amendments,” Coburn said. “There might be a filibuster or two in real terms.”
In December, Reid, D-Nev., negotiated with Coburn to move a package of public land bills (PL 110-229) that Coburn had threatened to block. Coburn was offered the chance to offer some amendments — although there was no promise made about any specific amendment.
Majority Whip Richard J. Durbin, D-Ill., said Tuesday that Democratic leaders have not promised Coburn he will be able to offer amendments to the planned package.
Durbin said one bill likely to be part of the package is a Reid-sponsored measure (S1382) to create a registry of those suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Coburn opposes that bill, contending that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention already has the authority to create such a registry. “We’re going to start making decisions that we should have the researchers making — and I’ll fight every one of those,” he said.
Coburn Will Need Help
Durbin estimated that Coburn has holds on about 80 bills, a figure Coburn said sounded accurate.
“These are non-controversial, bipartisan bills that he just doesn’t like,” Durbin said.
No list of Coburn’s targets exists, because Democrats have not taken the steps needed to publicly expose them.
Holds are traditionally recognized as a privilege of individual senators, but the ethics and lobbying overhaul enacted last year (PL 110-81) requires that a lawmaker publicly explain the reasons for a hold within six days of using one to block a bill.
To trigger that requirement, Reid would have to formally try to call up each Coburn-targeted bill on the Senate floor. Coburn then would have six days to identify himself or drop his hold.
But the Democrats’ bid to flush out Coburn’s holds could become difficult as well as tedious. If the Oklahoman got help from some GOP colleagues, they could force the majority to stop and restart the six-day clock repeatedly as one senator dropped a hold on a bill and another senator slapped one on — a tactic known as an “anonymous rolling hold.”
A floor debate in December, during which Reid and other Democratic leaders complained about GOP tactics, provides clues to other bills Democrats might try to free from Coburn’s hit list.
Democrats complained then that Republicans were blocking legislation that would authorize funding for investigations of pre-1970 civil rights crimes (HR 923), expand paralysis research (S 1183) and provide grants for closed captioning of broadcasts (S 675).
The public lands package, which combined dozens of small bills designating new park, wilderness and scenic areas, is the model as Democrats put together their next Coburn-thwarting maneuver.
To ease passage of the public lands measure, Reid promised Coburn the chance to offer a limited number of amendments.
But after the majority leader objected to a Coburn proposal that would have eased restrictions on firearms in national parks, the package stalled for months, prompting Coburn to charge that Reid reneged on their agreement.
Coburn eventually got to offer four amendments — all of which were defeated — but not the guns measure.
Coburn was one of four senators, all Republicans, who ultimately voted against passage of the public lands bill.
This time around, Reid could file a motion to limit debate on taking up the new package and either strike a deal with Coburn to allow specified amendments or, more likely, employ a parliamentary tactic known as “filling the tree” to block amendments. Reid could then file a cloture motion on the underlying bill. If Reid can muster at least 60 votes, he could pass the legislation despite any objections.
One way or another, Durbin said, “We are going to get to a vote.”
Kate Shafer, LICSW
Director of Advocacy
CureSearch National Childhood Cancer
Foundation
4600 East West Highway, #600
Bethesda, MD 20814
(240) 235-2217 ((800) 458-6223 X2217
kate.shafer@curesearch.org
Thursday, June 12, 2008 2:25 PM CDT
THIS IS SUCH EXCITING NEWS...........HOORAY !!!!!!!!!!!!!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CureSearch Praises Passage of the
“Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act”
in U.S. House of Representatives
Children with Cancer and their Families to Benefit from Landmark Legislation
June 12, 2008 (Bethesda, MD) – CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation salutes the United States House of Representatives for passage of H.R. 1553, the “Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act,” which promises to significantly increase federal investment into childhood cancer research.
During markup of the legislation, the bill was renamed the Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act of 2008, in memory of Caroline Pryce Walker, daughter of Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-OH), who succumbed to neuroblastoma in 1999 at age nine.
The bill authorizes $30 million annually over five years, providing funding for collaborative pediatric cancer clinical trials research, to create a population-based national childhood cancer database, and to further improve public awareness and communication regarding available treatments and research for children with cancer and their families.
“For far too long, children suffering from pediatric cancer have gotten short shrift on federal resources,” said Pryce, original author of this groundbreaking legislation.
“The bill we passed today dramatically expands federal investment into childhood cancer research and education, and will make an historic difference in the lives of the more than 12,000 children who will be diagnosed with cancer each year. A nation with our resources, our scientists, our committed doctors and oncologists, and our inherent and insuppressible fighting spirit can and should do more to put an end to so much suffering.”
Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), one of the original co-sponsors of the Carolyn Walker Pryce Conquer Childhood Cancer Act, stated that conquering childhood cancer has transcended partisan politics, and addresses a critical national issue that is finally receiving the attention it deserves.
“I am pleased that the House passed this important legislation, which will bring us one step closer to eradicating pediatric cancer,” said Van Hollen. “This bill will enhance and expand pediatric cancer research activities at the National Institutes of Health, establish a pediatric cancer registry, and increase informational and educational outreach efforts to patients and families affected by pediatric cancer. No child should have to experience and suffer the effects of cancer, and no parent should have to see their child suffer.”
CureSearch supports the life-saving research of the Children’s Oncology Group, the world’s premier cancer research collaborative. Treating 90% of children with cancer, the Children’s Oncology Group includes more than 5,000 experts in childhood cancer research and treatment, located at more than 200 leading children’s and university hospitals across North America.
"The Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act allows for translation of the very best research discoveries into clinical evaluation and practice, in order to improve the cure rates for all children with cancer,” noted Gregory Reaman, MD, Chair of the Children’s Oncology Group. “Only research cures childhood cancer. On behalf of my colleagues in the Children’s Oncology Group and the children with cancer and their families who are our partners in clinical research, we thank our Congressional leaders.”
“On behalf of CureSearch, we applaud the steadfast leadership of Representatives Chris Van Hollen and Deborah Pryce and their colleagues in the House who through the passage of this bill have made finding the cure for childhood cancer an urgent national priority,” said Stacy Pagos Haller, Executive Director, CureSearch.
Companion legislation in the United States Senate (S.911), sponsored by Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), cleared the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee unanimously in November, 2007. The Senate version of the Conquer Childhood Cancer Act currently has 63 co-sponsors; a full Senate floor vote on the bill is expected this summer.
About CureSearch
CureSearch seeks to conquer childhood cancer, conquer it sooner, conquer it fully and for all time. Through public education, advocacy and fundraising, the National Childhood Cancer Foundation, a non-profit 501 (c) (3), supports the work of the Children’s Oncology Group (COG), the world’s premier pediatric cancer research collaborative. This network of more than 5,000 healthcare professionals dedicates their lives to finding answers and sharing results. More than 12,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year, and more than 40,000 children and adolescents are currently in treatment. Only research cures cancer. For more information, visit www.CureSearch.org.
Monday, May 12, 2008 12:26 AM CDT
WARNING: Another long update.
I hope everyone had a Happy Mother's Day. I know that many spent their first Mother's Day without their child and their hearts ached all day. I have been there and it is my sincere hope that God gave you the strength to survive the day, memories of your child enveloped you, and you were shown compassion and love all day. I will have another update soon about how wonderful my weekend was.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BEING A BONE MARROW DONOR THE COST TO GET TESTED IS FREE UNTIL MAY 19th. The cost is normally $ 50.00. The forms are simple and easy to fill out and they will send you a test kit that is basically a mouth swab and that's it!!! Please go to www.marrow.org
and you could SAVE A LIFE!!!!! We know many kids that are alive today due to the selfless acts of donors around the world. You never know when you or a loved one may need to be the recipient of this gift of life. Pay it forward now. On the Bone Marrow Donor homepage you will see our friends Alex and Matt Pearl...siblings with Fanconi Anemia who received bone marrow from two wonderful Mom's. We have known the Pearl family for 7 1/2 years. We shared the same homebound teacher, Pam Passwater, who is also with Dream Factory of St. Louis. I was honored to attend their fundraiser this weekend and got to see their two donors who were honored at the event. WHAT AN AMAZING NIGHT!!! It was a very touching evening for many reasons. I got to meet an Alexandria's Angel follower. Debbie has left many messages over the years on Alexandria's guestbook and to me personally, providing me with a smile and encouragement along the way. She follows many Caringbridge families and we are all so thankful for her messages of hope and inspiration. I was so thankful that God put us both in that place that night so that I could finally meet and thank her for her support. What a blessing.
This is very exciting for those of us that have been touched by this dreadful disease. Please join us in the fight. Our future generations depend on it!!!
******One Step Closer to a Cure******
"Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act:"
May 12, 2008 (Bethesda, MD) - CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation joins with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to salute Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-OH), longtime champion of pediatric cancer research, at today's renaming of the Conquer Childhood Cancer Act of 2007 to the "Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act of 2008."
This landmark legislation cleared another significant hurdle today, as it was approved by the House Energy and Commerce Committee. During committee markup, the bill was renamed to honor the memory of Pryce's daughter Caroline, who passed away in 1999 at age nine from a Neuroblastoma. The bill is now clear for consideration on the full House floor.
The Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act authorizes funding to expand the federal support for cooperative biomedical, peer-reviewed clinical trials and research programs, which directly translate into meaningful advances in the treatment of childhood cancer. These advances improve cure rates and provide children facing cancer and their families hope for a long and healthy life.
"The Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act allows for translation of the very best research discoveries into clinical evaluation and practice, in order to improve the cure rates for all children with cancer," noted Gregory Reaman, MD, Chair of the Children's Oncology Group. "Only research cures childhood cancer. On behalf of my colleagues within the Children's Oncology Group, and the children with cancer and their families who are our partners in clinical research, we thank our Congressional leaders, most especially, Congresswoman Pryce."
After the committee's approval of the legislation, Congresswoman Pryce said, "I am thrilled with the continued progress of this bill. This legislation brings us one step closer to a goal universally shared by all of humanity - the eradication of pediatric cancer, and an end to the incalculable misery cancer inflicts on so many young lives. I am increasingly optimistic that Congress will soon give pediatric cancer the attention and resources it so desperately needs."
The Children's Oncology Group includes more than 5,000 medical experts in childhood cancer and treatment, located at more than 200 leading children's hospitals, university hospitals and cancer centers in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Western Europe. The COG treats more than 90 f all children diagnosed with cancer in the United States.
"Despite decades of significant research progress, cancer remains the number one cause of death from disease in children. Every school day, 46 children, or two classrooms of students, are diagnosed with cancer in this country," said Stacy Pagos Haller, Executive Director, CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation.
"Each day that childhood cancer goes under-funded the road to discovering new treatments and cures becomes longer and more children die. The loss of even one more child is one too many. We are grateful for the leadership in both houses, and in both parties; passage of the Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer Childhood Cancer Act will have a positive impact on children now and in future generations."
Get Involved...It is an EASY and FREE way to help the children!
Who is TEAM UNITE?
Team Unite arose from the Henry Tucker CaringBridge site and is comprised of volunteers from families around the country who have been impacted by the devastating diagnosis of having a child with cancer. Team Unite also consists of friends of these families as well as a conglomeration of concerned citizens. The result is a genuine grassroots effort with the purpose of raising awareness and securing funding so that a cure for childhood cancer can be found as quickly as possible!
If YOUR TEAM is interested in joining OUR TEAM, please email Dianne Killian: dkillian@helmsbriscoe.com.
"I am still determined to be cheerful and happy, in whatever situation I may be; for I have also learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances." ~ Martha Washington (1732-1802)
Friday, April 11, 2008 10:29 PM CDT
First for the good news…it is much shorter (sigh). Ethan Blankenship, www.caringbridge.org/visit/ethanlee , is doing great physically 100 days post BMT, PRAISE THE LORD for that!!! The Blankenship family was ready to move back to their home in Southeast Missouri and unfortunately detected mold in the walls and floors of their home due to the heavy rains MO has had this spring. This would be catastrophic for Ethan. Mold spores can be hazardous to everyone’s health but deadly for a post BMT patient. I am SO thankful that they found it BEFORE they got back home. They are living in temporary housing near their home and praying that it only takes a few weeks to finish replacing all walls/floor/ etc. Dennis and a few friends and family have been doing all the work themselves. Hardly what their family needed at a time when they just wanted to get home and back to a somewhat “normal” life and will be traveling back and forth for weekly check-ups. Please pray that this can happen sooner vs. later.
For the rest of this update,well, no sugarcoating it, it is just sad and hurts my heart to write about. Young local St. Louis mom, Jessica Inchiostro, www.caringbridge.org/visit/jessica , has run out of treatment options post second BMT failure and will be sent home today with homecare. She remains so incredibly brave, strong and even humorous despite being dealt this hand. In her last entry she jokes about regretting spending too much money on Mary Kay wrinkle cream. What an amazing woman she is. It is really true people, you can’t take it with you. Many times I look at our basement and all around our house at Alexandria’s belongings and I have the thought that in the end “stuff” just does not matter. Sure we can enjoy all of our “toys” (big kids and small alike) while we are here on this earth, but possessions really just don’t matter in the long run. So, who really cares about the fancy house and fancy car…certainly more to life when you are reflecting back at the end of your journey of life. Your relationship with God, family and friends are certainly the key ingredients to a full life here, and in the next life, eternity in Heaven. Please keep their entire family in your prayers.
As you know from my last update, Ethan Powell has gained the ultimate healing and has gone to Heaven. His “Going Home” party will be tomorrow in Shreveport, LA. Please pray for Ben and Becky and extended friends and family as they bury their child and endure the coming days and weeks without their sweet baby.
Aven, (www.caringbridge.org/visit/aven ) just 13 days shy of his 9th birthday, made his journey to Heaven this week. Aven is no longer suffering from the affects the brain tumor had on his body, but I am sure he is running freely, playing and eating an endless supply of Krispy Kreme donuts. Please say prayers for their entire family, especially his young sister Claudia.
The sad and shocking news also came this week that my previous OB doctor who delivered 4 out of 5 of my children, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep. She was only 52 years young and leaves behind five children. She moved her practice a few years ago to St. Genevieve or she would still be my doctor today. I trusted Dr. Christine Cernik with my life. Everyone that knew her loved her. When I was pregnant with Hayden, and we were living in Jackson, MO, I still traveled 2 hours to keep her as my OBGYN. I could not fathom going to anyone else. I went into labor with Hayden a few weeks early due to dehydration from the stomach flu. I went to the local hospital where I was being monitored. As soon as I felt a little better and contractions had spread out a little, I had them unhook my i.v. and said, “I have to get to Dr. Cernik in St. Louis to deliver this baby.” Off Grant and I went in the minivan for the 2 hour trip (which we may have made in 1 ½ hours that time) I was willing to risk having a baby in the car…crazy I know…especially since he was our 3rd. She was an amazing doctor, friend and woman. She will be greatly missed. Please keep her husband, mom and children in your prayers as the shock of her passing fades and they continue to grieve.
Yes, my heart is heavy as this has been a week of great loss to the world. Knowing what these families are beginning to endure and will continue for the rest of their lives, I have cried many, many tears this week …but I must continue to hang on to the rays of hope, the slivers of sunshine in the midst of the clouds, and my faith….it is the only way I can survive, for me, for my children.
Friday, April 4, 2008 6:38 PM CDT
URGENT URGENT URGENT URGENT URGENT PRAYER REQUESTS:
UPDATE SATURDAY Morning
ETHAN HAS LEFT THIS EARTH TO JOIN ALL THE ANGELS IN HEAVEN....I AM SURE ALEXANDRIA WAS THERE TO GREET HIM. PLEASE PRAY FOR HIS MOM AND DAD (BEN AND BECKY) THAT GOD HOLDS THEM AND CARRIES THEM THROUGH THESE INCREDIBLY DARK DAYS WITHOUT THEIR ONLY CHILD....sigh.....
Please pray for one year old Ethan Powell, www.ethanpowell.com
He is in critical condition and fighting for his life with Zero ANC (no immune system), a lung infection etc, and it is an hour by hour situation. The website his almost 5 million visits since his diagnosis last Feb. and they are experiencing a lot of volume on the website, so try again if it does not let you on.
Please pray for the entire family as this is so incredibly difficult.
Please also pray for Aven Everett. He is coming to the end of his cancer journey and will be rewarded with the gift of eternal life soon. Again, please pray for the entire family..I know they will appreciate it greatly.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/aven
Very sad tonight that other families are having to experience the devastating loss/cancer battles of their precious children....it is just not right, not fair, and getting really old....when is it going to end....how many kids have to die?????????????
Wednesday, March 26, 2008 10:48 PM CDT
Okay, so the last message was so long and had so much info that it took a month to update again…
One of the reasons that I have kept this website going so long is to bring awareness to childhood cancer and hopefully SOMEDAY, (in my lifetime preferably) we would see an end to all the suffering and a CURE could be had by any child diagnosed. OR EVEN BETTER….the causes of childhood cancer were discovered and children did not GET cancer in the first place. Another reason I continue to update is that Caring Bridge has played an intricate role in our family’s cancer and grief journey, and I feel that it is imperative to pass along children’s websites that are in need of prayer or could use some extra encouragement. So, just as you prayed for Alexandria and my family through the worst times of our lives, I am asking for prayers for several kids and families that are in dire need of our prayers and support.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/aven
Aven is on hospice and after a long battle, they know he is destined to go Home and it is only a matter of time.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/jessica
inchiostro
Jessica is a young mom who has relapsed after a BMT and so she is undergoing her second BMT, however she is experiencing some difficult times right now.
Emily is 18 years old and from the Tampa/St Pete area. She was almost two years post bone marrow transplant, and had gone back to high school for her senior year. She had even been accepted to Duke University and had plans to start in the fall. Now those dreams are being put on hold since her relapse with leukemia in January. Unfortunately, she is not doing well at this time and is in ICU at St Jude’s now fighting for her life. When you get a minute, please read her story. www.caringbridge.org/fl/emilylester and say a little prayer for her and her family who have been through enough with this awful disease.
I know I speak for many when I say it can be extremely disheartening to see so many children continue to be diagnosed or lose their battles against cancer. PRAISE THE LORD that some do beat the odds and survive, but we are sad to say that we know a great number that relapse and pass on due to their disease. It is in the honor of the children still battling, and the memory of our inspirations from Heaven that we must continue our efforts to get bills such as S.911 H.R.1553 passed. It’s a start. It is moving in the right direction instead of proposed budget cuts.
This is from Team Unite’s Diane Killian:
I want the families out there who have lost a child, who are in battle, or fighting to stay in remission to know how much I respect you for all you are doing for our unified effort. As we all know, nothing happens in our government unless the people demand it. That is why Team Unite has the power to facilitate change. It is with a unified voice we will be heard. I know that no senator or representative in our government wants to see children suffer but I agree that it is time to back that up with a vote, NOW! No time to wait!!!! As a unified people we will make this happen! Don't let them tell you to only call your local reps....This is a matter of NATIONAL INTEREST...EVERY district in our country is affected. No state lines when the life of the child is involved!!!
PLEASE be with us angels - join us warriors, families, friends, strangers, congress men and women.....We need to pass this bill, PRONTO!!!!! S.911 H.R.1553.....The Conquer Childhood Cancer ACT. Only we have the power to make this happen and a UNIFIED EFFORT is what will make it happen!!!! I am thankful for Team Unite. Together we will not be ignored, right michelle tucker???? LOL!
PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR TEAM UNITE Information
http://heidster.com/team_unite/
Get Involved…It is an EASY and FREE way to help the children!
Sunday, March 23, 2008 7:32 AM CDT
Jesus Rose From Death
Taken from Churchforall.org
MATTHEW 28:5-6 NKJ
5 But the angel answered and said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.
6 "He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
Jesus Christ's resurrection is either the supreme fact in history or a gigantic hoax. If Christ's resurrection is true -- we ignore its implications at our own peril. If not, then Christianity is the biggest fraud in the history of the world.
Christ's resurrection forces the question of Christianity's validity from being merely a philosophical issue to being a historical one.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a fact verifiable from history. No one can challenge Christ's resurrection -- if they take an honest look at the evidence.
Only those who never study the evidence -- or who refuse to listen to its testimony -- could deny the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Many learned men have tried to disprove Christ's resurrection -- only to become believers instead!
Some people refuse to examine the evidence, because they do not want to believe in Jesus Christ and submit to Him as Lord.
The facts remain. Confucius' tomb, Buddha's tomb, Mohammed's tomb, and Lenin's tomb are all occupied.
But Jesus Christ's tomb is EMPTY!
REVELATION 1:18 NKJ
18 "I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death."
I believe that Jesus Christ rose from death. I believe that I will spend eternity with Jesus and Alexandria because he died and rose again.
We were shown many Easter miracles with Alexandria in 2001. We will never forgot those gifts from Jesus.
HAPPY EASTER TO ALL !!!!
alison
Monday, February 18, 2008 10:15 AM CST
Sorry for the delay in updates, my Word doc. was lost
and had to be duplicated :(
Please enter your zip code below to find out who your representatives are and then please write to them. There are sample letters on CureSearch or you can personalize one too.
This is a MAJOR long update, but very important information. Please read it and do with it whatever you feel led to do. Please put any of this information on your own Caringbridge websites or email your friends link to Alexandria's site. We MUST spread the word, the future of our children depends on it.
Alexandria’s Angelversary is here, and I cannot seem to get my head or heart around the fact that it has been 5 long years since I have heard my daughter’s voice, held her hand or gazed into her big, blue, beautiful eyes. How could it possibly be five years …1,825 days? It just seems unbelievable that I could have survived that long without the light of my life. There are still days when my longing for her are overwhelming. There are days that I am sad when reflecting back on her cancer battle and the fact that it eventually took her life. Then there are those days that I am just so thankful that God chose me to be Alexandria’s mommy, I can see nothing but the gift and the blessing she brought to our lives. I still cry. I always will. I just don’t cry as much as I did in the beginning. My every waking moment is not consumed with my grief as it was at first. I have come a long way from hiding out at my home and not wanting to be in much contact with the outside world. I have grown in so many ways over the past five years. I have way more sympathy and compassion for others and have hopefully gained a little clarity on life. One thing I simply cannot get over, however, on this February 16th, is that I must still stand by and watch time and time again, children losing their battles to this dreadful disease. I really don’t see a decrease in deaths. I look at those that I follow on Caringbridge and I am simply amazed at those passing away on a weekly basis. And the new kids I follow and hear of being diagnosed, NOT getting better either. Is it me? Am I alone, or is anyone else noticing it as well?
Here are the facts people:
One in every 330 Americans will develop cancer by the age of 20. On the average 12,500 children and teens will be diagnosed with some form of cancer each year in this country, of those, over 2,300 will die. In the U.S., about 46 children are diagnosed with cancer every weekday.
The incidence of childhood cancer has increased every year for the last 25 years. It strikes children from all ethnic backgrounds and every level of financial income. IT IS THE LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH OF OUR CHILDREN !!!!!!!!!!!!!
The National Cancer Institute's (NCI) federal budget for 2003 was $4.6 billion. Of that, breast cancer received 12prostate cancer received 7and all 12 major groups of pediatric cancers combined received less than 3A cure can only be found if you help. Helping is great, but make sure you help the right organization. Research has angered me to know what very little funding is actually going towards trying to save our children. Here is what the following organizations give towards research:
*The American Cancer Society (ACS) gives 14($.14 for every dollar donated) of their dollars towards research. This is 14or all types of cancer, infants through adults. The two biggest fundraisers that the ACS has every year all across the country is the "Relay For Life" and "Daffodil Days". So yes, that means those fundraising efforts will only fund 14owards research.
The National Childhood Cancer Foundation, www.nccf.org uses 94f every dollar donated towards research. AMAZING!!!
National Childhood Cancer Foundation supports the work of the Children’s Oncology Group, the world’s largest cooperative childhood cancer research organization. The Foundation is dedicated to educating the public, increasing awareness and raising funds for childhood cancer research.
The Children's Oncology Group unites the best of the academic and clinical research worlds to move the most promising treatments from the lab into clinical trials. This association of more than 5,000 dedicated experts in childhood cancer research and treatment are located at more than 235 Children's and University hospitals, and Cancer Centers in the United States.
CureSearch (www.curesearch.org) is dedicated to reaching the day when every child with cancer can be guaranteed a cure.
Are you asking yet how you can personally make a difference so that a cure is found? I need not remind anyone that it is an election year. Our voices can be heard. You can by help by contacting your congressman and other elected officials and have them sign
The Conquer Childhood Cancer Act HR1553 and S911.
Go to:
www.curesearch.org/news_and_media/news_article.aspx?id=4612 . Click on this link and it will tell you everything you need to know.
Or read below:
The Conquer Childhood Cancer Act of 2007 is a landmark piece of legislation which authorizes $150 million over a five-year period to expand support for biomedical research programs of the existing National Cancer Institute-designated multi-center national infrastructure for pediatric cancer research, establish a population-based national childhood cancer registry, enable researchers to more accurately study the incidence of childhood cancers and long-term effects of treatments, and provide funding for informational and educational services to families coping with a diagnosis of childhood cancer.
"One child who suffers from cancer is one too many,” said Congresswoman Pryce. “But today, we are introducing legislation that will bring us closer to a goal universally shared by all humanity; the eradication of pediatric cancer. Clearly, a compassionate society and one that is so abundant in its revolutionary research and advancement, can and should place a higher priority on combating childhood cancer – and that is what our bill does.”
“We must launch an all-out battle against pediatric cancer by providing additional resources, improved treatment and more centralized, accessible information – all in the effort to eradicate the number one cause of death by disease for American children,” stated Chris Van Hollen.
“As a parent myself, I can think of nothing more painful than a parent having to helplessly watch their child die. Here in the Congress, we are obligated to prioritize our federal spending and I can think of no greater priority than our children. They are our most valuable and precious resource we have and we must do everything we can to protect them," stated Congressman Michael McCaul.
“When a child is diagnosed with cancer, suddenly the whole family’s life can change overnight. Often times, a parent will have to quit their job to stay home and care for their child,” said Senator Reed. “The Conquer Childhood Cancer Act will deliver much needed hope and support to children and families battling cancer and more resources for vital pediatric cancer research programs.”
“Childhood cancer has tragically claimed far too many lives, but I believe there still is hope,” said Senator Norm Coleman. “Childhood cancer is a unique condition. Although we’re finally making progress on increasing survivorship, we’re finding that there are unique health issues faced by survivors throughout their lifetime. This legislation helps ensure that researchers, physicians and families have the tools they need to confront this disease. By working together, we can hopefully get that much closer to finding a cure to this terrible disease.”
Chase Meacham, a 15-year-old cancer survivor of osteosarcoma, joined other families of children with cancer and childhood cancer advocates to share his story with congressional leaders. “The term cancer danced in and out of my mind, but I dared not utter the word. I was a child and children didn’t get cancer,” said Chase. “We need to find a cure for those lonely children because they may not be around tomorrow. Cancer is their fight, but it is our responsibility. I am here today to ask for your help and support – together, we will find a cure. Thanks to research, I am a survivor.”
“CureSearch is extremely grateful to these dedicated Members of Congress who are shining a national spotlight through the Conquer Childhood Cancer Act of 2007,” said Executive Director, Stacy Haller. “We will work together to get this legislation passed. The future of our children is at stake.”
No child deserves to suffer like Alexandria and the thousands of others. These children are so brave and have to face so much at such a young age. And although the cure rate has gone up dramatically since the 60’s, the percentage of kids diagnosed each year has increased dramatically. I usually do not resort to the “conspiracy theory” but I honestly believe that there is something in the water, in the air, in the food or in vaccines, that is poisoning our children or moms when we are pregnant with our babies and exposed to the environmental carcinogens. Something is different, and something needs to be done about it. More research for not only CURES but for CAUSES must be done. I really believe the government isn't doing enough.
The time is NOW to start speaking up and shouting out. Please help all the children who are battling this deadly disease, have lost the battle, and for those children who have yet to be diagnosed by writing letters to all our government officials. It is absolutely UNNACCEPTABLE that they are cutting research to childhood cancers.
Here is what the LIVESTRONG organization had to say about our next president :
Cancer: The Issue All Candidates Should Be Running Against
Since President Richard Nixon declared war on cancer in 1971, the disease has never drawn any significant political attention or opposition. Until now.
In August, the Lance Armstrong Foundation invited all of the presidential candidates to address the cancer burden in our country. At the LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum, six candidates pledged to renew the war on cancer and to make cancer a national priority.
The LIVESTRONG Presidential Cancer Forum made cancer a ballot box issue for the 2008 presidential elections. Our next president MUST be focused on the cancer issue. He or she must be committed to our health and well-being and have the political will to do something about it.
Cancer must remain part of the national dialogue, and you can help. Learn about candidates' commitments to the war on cancer and spread the word to your friends and family that cancer is an important issue for our nation.
Soon you will have the opportunity to cast your vote. The millions of people affected by cancer across the country are counting on you.
Of the candidates that are still on the ballot at this time, Clinton, Huckabee were the only presidential candidates in attendance at this Presidential Cancer Forum. However, I understand that Obama’s mother died of cancer at the age of 52, so I believe he too may have an interest in the cause. Each and every one of us has been affected cancer. Is it your daughter, mom, sister, fatmust be focused on our health and well-being and have the political w
Perhaps we all need to call Senator John McCain’s office who is still not on board yet…( I have personally already done that) His phone number is: (202) 224-2235. Tell the person that answers that we need them to deliver a message to Senator McCain. Ask that he cosponsor the Conquer Childhood Cancer Act S 911. Let them know that we are aware that he is the ONLY person who is running for President who is not a cosponsor of S 911. Please stress to them that this Law is of personal and NATIONAL concern and you want your message delivered to the senator. Be firm about this!
Or you could also send a letter to John McCain via his website at http://mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.ContactForm. please customize the letter if you have time.!
By the way, has anyone notice the number of the bill? 911…We need this to be passed PRONTO!!!!
Please click on the link below and watch the video:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGS4yE5v9rM
If this were your child, would this be acceptable?
Saturday, February 16, 2008 10:21 PM CST
Exactly five years ago today you went to be with Jesus. We are missing you today and every day Alexandria. I hope you got the balloons we sent to Heaven.
Will update tomorrow.
Hugs and kisses my sweet Sissy girl...tucking you in tonight in my heart-
Mommy
Friday, February 8, 2008 9:39 PM CST
HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY HARRISON !!!!
THANK YOU GOD AND ALEXANDRIA FOR THE BLESSING !!!!!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008 10:19 PM CST
So I suppose that the Santa’s on the home page are a little 2007, and it is time now to move on to 2008. I am not quite sure where the time goes, but it literally flies by with a baby even more so. I bought Harrison’s birth announcements months ago, but thought I would wait and send them out with the Christmas cards. Well, Christmas cards never happened so I was determined to get them sent out before he had his one year birthday….which happens to be only a few short weeks away!!!!! If the rule is you have a year to give a couple a wedding gift, then should we not cut some slack to those of us with a new baby and give a year to send out birth announcements? I am thinkin’ yes. So, I partially typed up this lovely Christmas letter and it was just saved to “my documents” like many other of my unfinished projects so I decided just to put it on Alexandria’s website and be done with it.
Christmas 2007
We have had a busy and blessed year here at the Haddock household. Hunter (age 12 ½) is enjoying 7th grade and played spring and fall baseball and hockey all year. He has his first official girlfriend, who is adorable, sweet and smart. It does seem rather strange though to be changing a diaper and at the same time discussing teenage things with him. Hayden (age 11) is glad to be in his last year of elementary school and is anxiously awaiting middle school. He played spring and fall baseball as well and hockey too. Addison (age 8, going on 30) began playing for a select soccer club, Missouri Premier, and has played outdoor and indoor. She is all about soccer but also enjoys being girly-girl too. Poor Harrison (almost one year) just gets carted from one sport and event to another. All he wanted for Christmas was his two front teeth. He had been working on busting them out for several weeks, and they made their debut just in time for Santa. Against his mommy’s desire to keep him a baby forever, he started walking at 8 ½ months. He is sprinting now, kicks balls around all day and is busy just trying to keep up with the rest of the clan. Pretty sure his daddy is going to strap on the hockey skates and cleats soon…
Speaking of Grant, despite his work/travel schedule, he managed to coach Hunter and Hayden’s hockey team to a championship….they came a LONG way this year….we’ll leave it at that. As for me, it has been such a blessing to have a new baby in our home, but a tiring one at that. I am taking a few years off from the interior decorating world to enjoy every second with this precious baby and running kids around to various activities. We of course miss Alexandria each and every day and it is hard for us to believe that she has been gone for almost five years. We are so thankful her legacy continues with the Alexandria’s Angels Foundation. She would be so proud that we have helped so many kids with cancer and their families once again this year.
Hope everyone has a blessed and healthy 2008!!!!!
Grant will update with Christmas pics soon.
-Alison
Saturday, December 1, 2007 10:11 AM CST
****PLEASE EMAIL ME OR WRITE A QUICK MESSAGE IN THE GUESTBOOK IF YOU ARE THE 400,000th PERSON TO SIGN IN. I AM SURE IT WILL BE IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS****
I received an email from Pam at Dream Factory, about a kindergarten girl named Challia who is need of our prayers.
Her website is:
www.caringbridge.org/visit/challiabenaereed
Well, it's official, "onesie" weather is over and we are embarking on the holiday season and cold weather. Our first "wintery-mix" is expected today which means here in St. Louis, that we could get a foot of snow or not one single flake....no offense to our dear friend John Fuller, Channel 5 weatherman. Let me just say it now (as I have said MANY times here before) "UGH!!!!" Not such a fan of cold weather, but suppose I will make it through another winter season.
The boys always put up the Christmas tree and due to a soccer tournament for Addison, and boys hockey last weekend, the tree remains packed away in a box in the basement. Hopefully we will get all the decorations (or at least SOME of them) out this weekend. I cannot wait to see the look on Harrison's face when he feasts his eyes upon a Christmas tree full of lights!! Now that he is sprinting around with much more confidence, I am sure we will have to watch him like a hawk (not that we don't already) so that he does not pull the tree down. Always such great fun to celebrate "Baby's First Christmas." There is just nothing better to make the season complete. He is the gift this year. I promise to post pics of Harrison with the tree as soon as we take them. Right after I place the order for his birth announcements......YIKES!!!!! How sad that it has been on my "to do" list for months and months.....um, almost 10 to be exact. That's right, he will be 10 months on December 8th. WOW...this year has FLOWN. He was 22 lbs. at his last check-up a month ago. He is actually the smallest of all the kids at this age...but still in the 75th percentile for weight and height. He is a cutie patootie and the kids are still lovin on him 24/7.
It looks like almost 800 visits recently, but not many have signed in. Thanks to those who have signed in or emailed me lately....it is so nice just to even see a name in the guestbook and know you were here. Thanks to those who have encouraged me to keep writing, I really appreciate your kind words.
Please also keep the baby Ethan's in your prayers. Try to enjoy this blessed time and remember the reason for the season. It isn't about the Wii or the Ipods. Please keep those who are facing their first Christmas without their loved one in your prayers as this is always a difficult time. Don't forget...if you and your family have your health, consider it a great day !!!
God Bless you all-
Alison
Thursday, November 22, 2007 9:38 PM CST
HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL !!!! THE HADDOCK FAMILY HAS MANY BLESSINGS TO BE THANKFUL FOR!!!! HAPPY FIRST THANKSGIVING TO OUR LITTLEST BUTTERBALL, HARRISON.
"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His
courts with praise. Be thankful
to Him, and bless His name.
For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting."
Psalm 100:4-5
PLEASE KEEP THE TWO BABY ETHAN'S IN YOUR PRAYERS AS THEY BOTH PREPARE FOR BMT.
ETHAN BLANKENSHIP HAS A DONOR AND WILL BE GOING IN FOR BMT SOON...PRAISE THE LORD.
WWW.CARINGBRIDGE.ORG/VISIT/ETHANLEE
ETHAN POWELL HAS HAD SOME SIGNIFICANT SETBACKS AND COULD USE SOME SERIOUS PRAYERS. They are praying for a miracle. They have had over 3 million visits to their website since Feb.
WWW.ETHANPOWELL.COM
BELOW IS A STORY THAT I SINCERELY HOPE YOU WILL PASS ON TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW. PLEASE GO TO THE LINK FOR THE CNN WEBSITE AND VOTE FOR PATRICK AS THIS WILL HELP GREATLY IN BONE MARROW DONOR AWARENESS AND INCREASING THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE TO REGISTER FOR THE NATIONAL BONE MARROW DONOR PROGRAM!!!!
THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS-
ALISON
Patricks story:
After visiting countless doctors, emergency rooms, and specialists in other cities, you were confined to a wheelchair only 3 months after being the fastest runner in your fourth grade class. Originally, it was thought that you were suffering from Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, but months later you ended up in the hospital with some strange new symptoms. On March 24, 2006, when you were only 10, your family received the news that you had Leukemia. Because you are smart and mature beyond your age, you understood it was serious, so you were frightened at first. But the doctors were reassuring. They explained it was treatable, and chemotherapy was started right away.
When you were alone with your dad in the hospital room the day after your diagnosis, you, said something that even battle weary veterans could never forget. You stated: "I'm glad this happened to me, I'm glad I got Leukemia, it is going to teach me something. I don't know what it is yet, but I am going to learn something from this." Despite the pain and nausea you feel as a result of chemotherapy and spinal shots, you continue to face the hardships with uncommon valor.
While in the hospital in July, you watched a television story about a young lady named Greek Gray, who was also suffering from Leukemia but could not find a matching marrow donor. You learned about the critical shortage of minorities on the National Marrow Registry and realized how hard it was to find matches for certain ethnic groups. Since your heritage is Hispanic, you wanted to know what would happen if you ever faced a marrow transplant but could not find a match. Several weeks after the story, you learned that Greek Gray had passed away, despite the efforts of her famous brother who was a celebrity entrepreneur to publicize her cause. In your sadness, you felt an urgency to help, and found purpose in the creation of "DRIVING FOR DONORS." It was soon discovered that people wishing to join the National Marrow Registry are charged a 52 dollar tissue typing fee. Since the year was 2007, you established a goal of adding 2007 new people to the registry, but soon learned the cost would total over $100,000 in fees. Instead of being discouraged, you were motivated to raise funds. Your first idea arose when you lost your hair from the chemotherapy. Though sad about the hair loss, you turned the negative experience into a positive one. You decided to sell advertising space on your bald head through eBay and donate it to the fundraising arm of the National Marrow Donor Program, (NMDP). The eBay ad was an overnight sensation. Suddenly, TV and radio stations were calling for interviews. They wanted to know who the 11-year-old was with the great advertising idea. A company in San Diego, California bought your ad for $5,100.00.
You didn't stop there! You weren't satisfied with a local effort, so you expanded your goals to include a National Marrow Drive because you wanted to recruit donors for the National Marrow Registry. With the help of your Aunt Michele, you plotted the cities and routes you wished to visit to raise awareness. On May 7, 2007, you will embark upon your plan to visit over 31 cities to raise funds.
Trying to engage others in worthy causes is sometimes difficult, but it has not deterred you. You have diligently continued the ads and also recently taped several public service announcements for Driving for Donors, One Child's Dream, and the National Law Enforcement Bone Marrow Drive.
After a successful summer, Patrick’s dream was fulfilled and he continues to work on getting the message out to everyone. During the tour Patrick was honored by CNN Heroes. Pat WON his category of the CNN HEROES online vote and now is ONE OF ONLY 6 FINALIST from around the world! Pat was recognized for his national marrow donor drive and his work to add over 6000 donors to the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. He wants to win the CNN HEROES ALLS STAR TRIBUTE so he can go on a live, global broadcast of CNN on December 6, 2007 and tell the whole world about the critical need for marrow donors! He wants to tell his story how blood cancer patients do not need to die if everyone registers. Please go on the link below and vote for Pat Pedraja as often as you can from 11/12 to 11/26, please pass this link on to everyone you know so they can help too!
We just found out that Pat is in the lead at 29 percent. Please keep voting till the end.
Pat thanks you for helping him reach his dream!
Vote for Pat to win CNN HEROES!
We need your HELP! We need your VOTE!
www.cnn.com/heroes
VOTE NOW! VOTE OFTEN! EVERY VOTE COUNTS! PASS IT ON!
Wednesday, November 7, 2007 9:29 PM CST
And here we find ourselves once again. DD, diagnosis day, seven years ago today. When reflecting on my 38 years of life, and for as long as I shall live, November 7th, 2000, will always rank in the top worst days.
I still think about Alexandria all the time even though it has been four 1/2 years since she passed. I think about the beautiful person (both inside and out) before cancer ravaged her body. I think about her long battle and all she went through, yet she still had a good life. We made the most out of our time together. I cherished every word she uttered. I thanked God for every single breath. I rejoiced in every meal she enjoyed, every day of feeling good, and every triumph over the "bad guys." (bad cells) There is simply no way to adequately express in words all the feelings and emotions that are encapsulated into the past 7 years of my life. I frequently wonder and daydream about what she would be doing if she were alive right now. Hunter and I were lying on the floor playing with Harrison last night and I asked him if he thought of Sissy lately because he had not talked about her recently. He said, "yes Mommy, I think about her every night before I go to bed." I was thankful for that. He began to cry and express how much he missed her. I suppose he had been keeping it inside for awhile. We all had a good cry including Harrison. He did not understand why in the world his brother and momma would be crying, but he did not want to be left out of the deal and joined in.
Speaking of Harrison he will be NINE MONTHS OLD TOMORROW and he is ..........W A L K I N G !!!! He started a few weeks ago taking a few steps and I am strongly discouraging it. (lol) Life as I know it will be very different. Get out the bubble wrap...baby learning to walk....danger, danger!!
I just cannot believe how the time has flown since his birth in February. It seems as if there are not enough hours in the day to get things done with a new baby in the house....and I am very much okay with that. The bonus is hanging out with my sweet baby every day and marveling at every thing about him. My house is not so clean and "OH WELL." I got over my "Type A," house being spotless, all the laundry washed, folded and neatly put away LONG ago....exactly seven years to the day. Really, the laundry is not going anywhere now is it? The kids never do have to wear dirty clothes. The dust will probably keep accumulating and such is life. I have told Grant that someday we will have no children in our home and it will be spotless and well-organized. There will only be 2 people's clothes to wash. It will be very quiet and probably B O R I N G !!!!! For now, we should just be enjoying our children because soon enough Hunter will be in High School and really want very little to do with us (in public)..then Hayden and Addison and then, okay, so we have a ways to go with Harrison and I relish the thought. He will be my baby forever, right? A little dose of reality tonight, Hayden said that when he is almost done with college and celebrating his 21st birthday, Harrison will be in 5th grade (Hayden's age now) Wow! To be perfectly honest, this baby has brought a great deal of hope and healing to my heart. I mean, how can you not have hope when you have this precious little being whose whole life is before him with endless possibilities? He just smiles and coo's and babbles and my heart flutters. He is just too cute for words. Every night before I fall asleep and every morning I wake and see that sweet baby, I thank God for him and all of my healthy children. God and Alexandria really knew what they were doing when they blessed us with Harrison...he is truly a gift that will keep giving for the rest of my life.
This was the daily email I received this morning and I thought about how very true it is:
2007/11/07
A Significant Life
by Jon Walker
We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us. (1 Thessalonians 2:8 NIV)
Today's guest devotional is from Rick Warren, founding pastor of Saddleback Church and author of The Purpose Driven Life.
God wants to use you to make a difference in his world.
He wants to work through you. What matters is not the duration of your life, but the donation of it. It doesn't matter how long you live, but how you live.
Alexandria may not have lived a long life in the sense of time, yet she lived a full life when it comes to purpose and meaning. Her donation was significant. God used her life to show our family and countless others around the world what the gift of life truly means.
I am not sure how long I will keep the website going, if that many people still check in. I do understand this as there are many sick children and hurting families that need immediate prayers and I would rather people visit their websites. Not to mention I have OBVIOUSLY found it difficult to find time to update in the last nine months. I have thought about starting a family blog ( I know, I know, I cannot believe it either) to keep people posted about our family, but not sure if there would be any interest. It is hard to think of saying goodbye to this website and those who have meant so much to us via cyber-space over the years. It is hard for me to close this chapter in our lives knowing that our caringbridge community prayed us through and walked with us during the most difficult times in our lives. I suppose I will know in my heart when it is time to finish the book and move on.
PLEASE PLEASE keep Baby Ethan Blankenship (getting ready for BMT) and Baby Ethan Powell (prepping for second BMT) in your prayers. I know how much their families would appreciate it.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/ethanlee
www.ethanpowell.com
Monday, August 6, 2007 9:43 PM CDT
HAPPY 14th BIRTHDAY ALEXANDRIA !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HAPPY 8TH BIRTHDAY ADDISON !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A Place Where Children Are
What kind of place would Heaven be
With all its streets of gold,
If all the souls, that dwell up there,
Like yours and Mine, were old
How strange would Heaven’s music sound
When harps begin to ring,
If children were not gathered ‘round
To help the angels sing.
The children that God sends us
Are only just a loan,
He knows we need their sunshine
To make a house a home.
We need the inspiration
Of a baby’s blessed smile.
He doesn’t say they’ve come to stay
Just lends them for awhile…
Sometimes it takes them years-
To do the work for which they’ve come.
Sometimes in just a month or two
Our Father calls them home.
I like to think some souls up there
Bare not one sinful scar. I love to think of Heaven
As a place where children are.
Author Unknown
Can it really be that Alexandria would have turned 14 today? Time is a very funny thing..it flies when you want it to stand still and stands still when you want it to fly. It still causes great pain in my heart to celebrate my daughter’s birthday at the cemetery instead of here at our home. There is unbelievable sadness to wonder about who she would be right now if not for cancer. What disgusts me is the fact that cancer and other horrible diseases still exist, and cures could probably certainly be found, but some idiot (who even lost a sibling to leukemia !!!!) thinks it is more important to be fighting this war and spending BILLIONS AND BILLIONS of dollars to do it. Just think of all that money going to cancer research…can you imagine?!?!?!? Maybe your child, your wife, or your dad would not have to face the pain, the anxiety, the uncertainty of another day with cancer if more money went to research instead of the many other ridiculous ways our government chooses to spend our tax dollars. Okay, maybe I should not go down that road any further, it is such a touchy subject.
I have been working on a longer update for Alexandria’s birthday but I want to get the word out about a few families that desperately need our prayers right now. First is a family that has been brought to my attention, but I do not know them personally. He is 6 year old Cole from St. Charles area and he has been sent home with an inoperable brain tumor. His website is www.caringbridge.org/visit/colefisher. Please visit his site and keep their family in your prayers.
The second family hits way closer to home. The Blankenship family was in the bone marrow transplant unit with their baby daughter Kristan when we were there with Alexandria. We have kept in touch with their family over the years. Kristan had HLH, a rare and life threatening disease. She had her BMT with her older brother Logan as her donor. The Blankenship’s had their fifth child on May 8th, a baby boy named Ethan. He is almost 3 months old now but they recently found out that he has HLH as well. This means that he too will need a life-saving BMT. I went to see them Friday night at Children’s Hospital (that is a WHOLE other story of God and the strength He gives us when we need it most) and he is just precious. They have started chemo due to his liver and spleen being greatly enlarged. He recently came off oxygen. Please pray for him to stay clear of infections/germs, for the chemo to do what it needs to do without doing damage to such a tiny thing, and for strength for the entire Blankenship family. I know that Kristan survived this and that serves as great hope to them, but they are still extremely worried about their son and all that he must endure in the next few months. Their daughter’s website that explains everything in greater detail is :
www.caringbridge.org/mo/kristangrace
Ethan’s new website is :
www.caringbridge.org/visit/ethanlee
Please put Ethan and Cole on any prayer chains that you know of.
We have new pictures…..YEAH!!!!! Harrison is getting SO big and doing so much. I am going to put another update on soon. (I know, I know you’ll believe it when you see it)
THANKS TO ALL THAT REMEMBERED ALEXANDRIA !!!!!!! We greatly appreciate it.
Alexandria-I hope your balloons arrived in Heaven this evening. I think of you and miss you every single day. I love you infinity sweet sissy girl...until we meet again.
God Bless-
Alison
Tuesday, July 3, 2007 1:03 PM CDT
PLEASE PLEASE, PRAY for Baby Ethan Powell who is 6 months old and getting a BMT today at St. Jude’s Hospital. He is getting his daddy’s cells at this very moment. He has been having some breathing issues lately from very intense chemo to wipe out all of his cells in preparation for the BMT. He needs each and every prayer so join me in lifting this entire family up.
Pray for a successful BMT, with COMPLETE healing for Ethan and a long, healthy life. Please ask God for comfort for his parents, who I know from our experience, are exhausted both mentally, physically and emotionally. I also know that they are doing great spiritually because they have HOPE through Jesus. Their motto is “Believe” and “Prayer Works.” Please continue to pray for this family in the coming weeks as Ethan engrafts and his daddy’s cells become his own.
Please visit his website at
www.ethanpowell.com
It has proved to be a VERY busy 5 months at the Haddock house with a new baby, all the activities that the other kids are in, and Grant starting a new job with much more travel involved. I will have an update soon about the Haddock crew as well as cute pics of Baby Harrison who is a whooping 17 lbs at his last check up a few weeks ago…..not missing any meals over here !!!!!
In Him-
Alison
Sunday, April 8, 2007 11:09 PM CDT
HAPPY EASTER TO ALL !!!!!
I know it has been a long time since I last updated. Things have been very busy at the Haddock house. We have all converted to what we like to call “Harrison Time.” Yes, we are all working around his schedule. That’s okay, we absolutely adore him and love him terribly. He has been cooing and smiling a great deal lately. It truly melts my heart. It is hard to believe that I had him 2 months ago. Seems just like yesterday, yet it also seems as though he has been here forever. The newness of him has not worn off from the kids’ perspectives. They enjoy being with him any opportunity they can get. They tell him goodbye in the morning before they leave for school and are so happy to see him when I pick them up after school. They love to help give him a bath, pick out his clothes, etc. It is really sweet to watch them interact with Harrison and show how much they love him. He certainly is not lacking in the “love on me” category. There is ALWAYS someone in his face kissing on him and giving him attention. He is such a blessing for our family. I know that Alexandria helped send this very special baby and I am so thankful. I will have Grant put some new pictures of him on soon. He is growing like a weed.
I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you who have sent such nice gifts, cards, email messages etc. since the birth of Harrison. We truly feel your love and appreciate your generosity. I am working hard to get caught up on thank you cards that I am dreadfully behind on.
A few weeks ago it was brought to my attention that a 2 month old little boy from Louisiana had been diagnosed with leukemia. I have been following their journey and wanted to ask you to visit their website and say a prayer for this sweet little boy who is now 4 months old and preparing for BMT. I cannot imagine how frightened the parents must be as babies typically have statistics that are less than favorable. The family is very optimistic that their son Ethan will defy the odds of a 15 % survival rate. They know that PRAYER WORKS and that is their motto. Please join me in lifting them up in prayer.
www.ethanpowell.com
I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe God will resurrect those in Christ who’ve been taken from us. And we can encourage one another with these words of hope. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 NIV)
On this Holy day, I thought you may enjoy this awesome movie as well. You will be amazed.
http://www.theonesolitarylifemovie.com
God’s Blessings to all-
Alison
Friday, February 16, 2007 10:20 PM CST
****NEW PICTURES OF HARRISON****
Happy 4th Angelversary Alexandria !!!!
We all love you and miss you and we think of you each and every day. You will live forever in our hearts. I hope you had a wonderful celebration in Heaven today ...the day you earned your angel wings.
Thank you for helping to send such an incredibly precious gift to our family just in time to help ease our pain on this difficult day without you. Harrison certainly has some of his sister in him. We can see the resemblance.
Our family is truly blessed to have called you daughter and sister. Your journey taught us valuable lessons we will carry with us for the rest of our lives.
Thank you doodlebug for continuing to watch over all of us.
We love you forever and always-
Mommy and Daddy,
Hunter, Hayden, Addison and Harrison
I cannot thank you all enough for checking in on our family on this difficult day. Your
e-mails, messages and phone calls are greatly appreciated. Alexandria will not be forgotten and this is truly a gift.
Saturday, February 10, 2007 2:52 PM CST
*** BABY HARRISON PHOTOS NOW ****
All the Haddock's just walked in the door with.......
HARRISON GRANT HADDOCK !!!!!!
He is TOO precious and TOO adorable and we will write more soon when we are all not taking turns loving on him.
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a message for us or Harrison.
God Bless-
Alison
Friday, February 9, 2007 1:46 PM CST
Baby H/Player-to-be-Named-Soon is here! On Thursday, February 8th, 2007 at 8:55pm, he made his debut weighing in at 7 pounds, 15 ounces and 19 1/2 inches long. Mother and baby are doing great!
Stay tuned for more information and
pictures.
Thursday, February 8, 2007 5:20 PM CST
So much for "the plan." It is clear once again that "Baby H" (yes, he still remains nameless until we see him and decide on one) is going to do things on HIS terms. Things started progressing this morning and we have been here since 11:00 a.m. I have been having steady contractions all day. My doctor will be here at 7'ish to break my water and hopefully things will go quickly from there.
We'll keep you posted !!!!!!!
-alison
Tuesday, February 6, 2007 10:11 PM CST
Thanks so much to those who have recently visited, signed in, or e-mailed me. Almost 3,000 visits in a couple of days……WOW !!!!!!!!! Either inquiring minds want to know, or someone is getting “refresh button happy.”
Houston, we have a plan. I will be induced Thursday night…….HALLELUJAH !!!!!!!!
After having contractions (some extremely strong and convincing that the time was near) for weeks, my o.b. decided to help put me out of my misery. GOD LOVE HER !!! I have been so emotional this weekend with Alexandria’s ½ birthday approaching (today) and her Angelversary next Friday. I looked at videos and pictures all weekend and by the time I saw my doctor on Monday morning, I was still a little sad and teary. She took pity on me I’m sure. I will be 39 weeks on Friday so I think he’s all good to go in the “finished baking” department. I am not sure if it will be the 24 hour labor as it was with Hunter, or the 4 ½ hour labor with Addison but I am certainly rooting for the latter. I am now hoping he holds off until then despite all the contractions I have been experiencing in the past few days. I think I like the controlled situation of induction, knowing the other kids are taken care of etc. I know, I know, total Type A. I really don’t relish the idea of having him at home or on the highway and much prefer the good ‘ol hospital environment. The fact is, this baby definitely has a mind of his own, so we shall see and time will tell.
The other night during prayers Addison said, “Dear God, please let my mommy have this baby soon, it has taken a LONG time to get to this point.” Well, isn’t THAT the truth !!!! She just slays me sometimes with her wit. I am sure 9 months is just about an eternity to a 7 year old……and even, lets say, a 37 year old !!!
I cannot WAIT to meet this little guy. I cannot wait so soak him in. I cannot wait to smell him. I LOVE the smell of a new baby. If only we could bottle that smell. I would be one rich momma. I suppose the good people who make Dreft baby detergent have the closest match. Addison and I have just sat and delighted ourselves in the smell in the laundry room when washing his new clothes. (Almost to the point of me passing out from inhaling the wonderful aroma, but not quite…LOL)
The kids were all talking about how big they thought he would be. Who knows, but judging from my weight gain, I am estimating he should round out at about 35-40 lbs. HA, LOL !!!!! I always felt like being pregnant was a license to eat and then I get to pay the price for that….oh well……it’s all worth it. He was around 5 lbs 3 oz at my January 4th ultrasound. I am hoping for a 7 poundish pumpkin, not the 8 lbs 12 oz. like Hunter (2 weeks early). Hayden was 6 lbs. 14 oz, and Addison 6 lbs. 11oz. (both 2 1/2 weeks early.) Any guesses out there?
Actually today was okay. I really think the anticipation of a birthday or Angelversary is sometimes worse than the actual day. Hopefully Alexandria had a wonderful 13 1/2 birthday in Heaven.
Well, I suppose I better get some sleep here but I will keep you updated on any breaking developments.
Thanks again for letting me share the journey-
Alison
Saturday, February 3, 2007 5:24 PM CST
Six years ago today, February 3rd, 2001, I began this long journey of journaling on Alexandria’s website. From our daughter’s diagnosis to her untimely death, to the life of our family beyond our loss, I look at the 371,000 visits to this site and I am overcome with so many emotions. I never thought I would keep the website going for so long especially after her passing. I never would have imagined we would have so many people that still care about our family four years after Alexandria left this world. Caringbridge initially served the purpose to inform friends and family about her progress through her leukemia journey. It was a means to notify many people very quickly about how she was doing day to day on her protocol, or areas in which we could use prayer and support. There are times when this website has been my lifeline, my own personal way of coping with my loss. I have shared so many raw, intimate emotions, feelings that surfaced on good days and bad. I have poured out my heart and soul through words, sometimes making sense, sometimes not, sometimes being repetitive, and sometimes saying what needed to be said although it may have offended some. However, the blessings imparted to me are ten-fold greater than anything I have ever given here. We have gotten thousands of encouraging messages and words from lifetime friends to perfect strangers. The impact on my life that Caringbridge participants have provided is without a doubt, immeasurable on any scale.
I have received letters and e-mails from many people over the years telling me that Alexandria is the reason they now believe in God. They have given their lives to Jesus and now have a personal relationship with Him because of her suffering, her belief in eternal life through Him, and her journey to Heaven. Can you imagine the feeling that encompasses the very fiber of my being when these words are spoken or written to me?
There really are no words to explain it. It literally takes my breath away. That’s it. That’s the goal. That’s our purpose, each and every one us, for being here: to spread
The Good Word so that we may all enjoy eternal life. I am so comforted that in Alexandria’s pain and suffering, her existence on this earth counted. She won the prize. Her life was more precious than silver, more costly than gold. It was decided on before she was a gleam in my eye. She would come to this earth for 9 ½ years. She would lead others to Him so that they may also rejoice in Hope. She would show others that without a doubt there is a God and a place that we all can go after we leave this world. It is so simple too….You just have to ask Jesus to come into your heart. So many people think it is about “religion.” It is really about a lifelong relationship with your creator. Ask Him to forgive you for your sins and the bad things in your heart. Jesus came from Heaven to Earth in the flesh to show us the way. Know that He died on the cross for all the sin and hurtful things we have all done. He forgives us for all of our transgressions. It is amazing to think about the fact that God created us, and He could have “hardwired” us to believe in Him. He could have made us actually NEED Him…like air or water or food.
He did not do that because He wanted it to be OUR choice…Free Will for each of us to make that decision independently.
Jesus said, “Anyone who hears my word and believes Him who has sent me has eternal life. He will not be found guilty. He has crossed over from death to life.”
John 5:24
Some of these messages I have gotten over the years have been directed to me and how I have personally led them to Christ through what I have shared here or in my life experiences. Really it is Alexandria and her life that ultimately brought them to this website, but I am humbled and in awe of God’s work through me. How he could use “simple me” to help others along the broken road of life is incredible. It serves as a bold reminder to never underestimate our God. He can use any circumstance, good or bad, or any person to serve His purpose…worthy, willing, or not. His greater plan in our families suffering and grief has been partially revealed. The rest will be revealed when we get to Heaven.
I cannot wait to see the number of visitors by February 16th, Alexandria’s 4th Angelversary. I am sure that she is so elated that people still visit and she is still helping others to get to Heaven way after she is gone from this earth. We have been trying to get the DVD that we played at her funeral on her website through either YouTube or OneTrueMedia so that you may see a little more of the beautiful spirit that resided inside a beautiful 9 ½ year old little girl. Stay tuned. It may be a little too “techno” for us, but we will keep trying.
Happy 7 ½ birthday to Ms. Addison tomorrow, February 4th, (she is now hoping the baby comes for that).
And of course, Happy 13 ½ birthday to Angel Alexandria, Tuesday, February, 6th.
Her 9 ½ half birthday was the last one we celebrated on this earth together.
Resting in His Arms-
Alison
Thursday, February 1, 2007 7:46 PM CST
Still pregnant. We were hoping for a baby today because it is Adri’s 16th birthday (our dear friends Evelyn and Gregg’s daughter, kids’ babysitter, and sister to Angel Sarah) What a perfect day to have a baby. I suppose he does not want her to have to share her special day. Or it could be that it is so unbelievably cold outside that he is just not ready to come out and play. Cannot say I blame him. The kids are all talking regularly to my belly (the baby) and telling him enough already, and they are ready to meet him. Hunter said today, “I am your older brother, so you must listen to me, and I am telling you to COME OUT NOW !!!!!” It was really cute. Addison puts her mouth right on my stomach with her hands cupped like a megaphone and proclaims the time is now. Even my ob was trying to “coax him out” by talking through the machine that reads the heart rate. Maybe all the subliminal messages will do the trick and convince him. Today I did walk the mall a few times in an effort to get this party started. I have been having lots of contractions but that’s status quo really. After our “practice run” last Saturday night, the nurse told me to come back in when my contractions are 3-5 minutes apart and making me want to dig my fingernails through the couch I am sitting on. How’s that for a visual? I am thinking that’s a little too late for me. I do not prefer unnecessary pain. Grant is supposed to go out of town next Wednesday for almost a week, then my doctor is going out of town, so that is really our “deadline.” Actually, no one has control over this deal but God and Baby H, so we shall continue to wait and know that the timing will be right.
AWESOME PRAISES AND ANSWER TO PRAYER……Hayley’s doctor called today and said they saw no cancer in her ribs where it has been hurting. In other words, her breast cancer has not spread….THANK YOU LORD !!!!!!!! She will continue with her radiation and then a hysterectomy. They will be moving soon so please pray that they are able to pack and get things moved smoothly. She must be absolutely exhausted.
We will keep you posted on our baby bundle and THANK YOU so much for checking in on us.
God Bless you all-
Alison
Tuesday, January 30, 2007 10:39 PM CST
Let’s just say one member of the Haddock family gave birth this weekend….and it WAS NOT ME !!!!!!!!! Grant’s stone has passed ….Hallelujah!!!! He narrowly escaped surgery and he could not be happier.
It was, however, almost a double delivery. Saturday, late afternoon/early evening I began having contractions. I have been having contractions for months now so I was not alarmed at first. They became regular and much more intense around 6:00 p.m. They were about 5 minutes apart. I took a long, hot shower, and laid down to rest. The contractions only increased in intensity and frequency. I talked to my doc and going on the “safe vs. sorry” and “this is your 5th child” mentality, we headed to the hospital. By the time I got there they were 3 minutes apart, and quickly became 1 ½ minutes apart. I was dilated to 2, effaced 60 (Sorry for the intimate details for those not wanting them)
I was told to walk for an hour to hopefully get things going stronger. Grant and I paced up and down the halls and in circles around the floor. As we walked past the Labor and Delivery rooms we talked about which child of ours was born in the various rooms. We “ooh’d and “ahh’d” at all the precious pictures on the wall of babies born there. Motivation for sure. We prayed together for a safe and quick delivery with a bouncing baby boy whenever it was all said and done.
Recheck 30 minutes later post walking. Weaker, less frequent contractions, no change in dilation…BUMMER !!!!! After hours of progressing, NADA, ZIPPO, ZILCH, no more labor, no delivery. I told Grant that we were going to be sent home and no sooner did those words leave my mouth, the nurse came in and said since there was no change, I was headed home. Not exactly what I wanted to hear. Despite my desire to take the bun out of the oven and put it in the microwave to speed things along, I suppose Baby H is just not ready. We will continue to wait, no choice. The doc said yesterday that I was very close to being dilated to “3.” I will take any progress in the right direction. I am not really familiar with the whole “going to term” notion so I will pray for patience and more importantly, an easy delivery with a healthy baby. That’s really all that matters in the end.
Please continue to keep Hayley, Grant’s sister, in your prayers. She will be having an MRI tomorrow after radiation to find out why she continues to have pain in her ribs, the same side as her breast cancer. It has been a long, nerve-racking week for her and her entire family, and they are eagerly anticipating the results I am sure.
We’ll keep you posted if anything happens with the Lil’ Stinker.
God Bless-
Alison
Sunday, January 21, 2007 5:49 PM CST
(Written Saturday night, January 20th)
I am expecting a little boy bundle of joy to make his arrival into the world any day now. We are ALL anxiously awaiting the big event as the potential day draws closer and closer. I doubt very seriously that he will come on his predicted day (I believe it is only 5-10 percent of babies that actually come on their due date) I am all for sooner vs. later now that we are in the “safe zone.” I am sure that “Baby H” will come on his on good time though. Hopefully with all the contractions I have been having lately I am “progressing” in the right direction. I am certainly as big as a house and don’t feel as though I have much more room left in the belly. I have almost maxed out all of my maternity pants. I wear Grant’s scrubs anytime I can as they provide adequate room for my massive mid-section. I was at the cleaners the other day picking up some clothes and the lovely Chinese lady who owns it said “Oh, you getting big!!!” “Why thank you,” I replied. I mean really, how do you come back from that one? I did not have the heart to tell her skinny little self that we would probably have to end our client/owner relationship after that comment. (lol)
Our one wish is to have Grant there at delivery. He accepted a new job January 1st, which entails some more travel than we are used to. He was in Oklahoma all this week. He will be in and out of town for the next 3 weeks. So, hopefully, all will go as planned and he will be able to attend the grand finale.
In fact, Grant and I have decided, that perhaps we should “room together” at the hospital. Since he needs to have his kidney stone surgically removed and I need to have this baby, maybe we can get better rates, perhaps “multi-person discount” eh? No, the stone has not traveled any further south and we don’t want to risk him losing a kidney, so surgery is the only option.
Today some friends had the most wonderful baby shower for me. A big huge “thank you” to Nancy, Annie and everyone who was there and helped pull it off. At first when they proposed this idea to me I flat out refused. I felt too old to have a baby shower and after all, this is our fifth baby !!!! Unfortunately, a while ago, I made the age-old mistake of giving away every single thing “baby” in our possession. I thought our “baby days” were over. Everyone always says that as soon as you do that, you can better believe the good Lord will bless you richly with a new addition. Thank goodness I did keep the crib and changing table that all the kids used. For sentimental reasons I just could not part with them. Someday, WAY down the road, I also wanted to have them for our grandbabies when they come to stay at our house.
I took Addison for our little celebration brunch this morning. Her face would light up, her verbal reactions were adorable, her complete and utter excitement about everything from the wrapping paper to highchairs, was absolutely PRICELESS. All who attended could certainly attest to her sheer delight at every detail from start to finish. We have some great pictures but I am so upset that I did not have our camcorder to record what she was saying along with her heartfelt responses to each gift. The cake had the most precious little 3 dimensional baby on it. I will post pics soon. It is SO adorable you won’t believe it. We all “ooh’d and ahh’d” over it the entire shower.
As I sit here tonight by myself, the boys at hockey, and Addison fast asleep because she has a 7:00 a.m. soccer game, the snow is blanketing the ground outside. I close my eyes and in my mind resides a rolodex of images of Alexandria…her birth through her death. I can only imagine how happy she would be too, that a new baby brother was entering our family. She would be thirteen, and although I am sure she would be into her friends and other teenage things, she would be beside herself about the exciting time in our family’s history. It is a bittersweet time. It is emotionally difficult to bring a child into this world as you remember the angelversary of another one of your children who has passed away from this world. I miss her terribly and this time of year is always hard. It is mind-boggling to think that she has been gone physically from our lives for almost 4 years. Unbelievable. It is on reflection nights like these, that it seems like yesterday….seems like a lifetime, all at the same time.
Well, I shall wipe away my tears for now and know that joy comes in the morning. I suppose the only thing left to do after this emotional undertaking, is the only thing I could be expected to do. I am going straight to my kitchen to have a big, tasty, piece of white cake, with white icing, with a sweet baby on the top, that says “God Bless Baby Haddock” and know in my heart that the blessings in my life are plentiful and God is good, all the time.
Please continue to pray for Hayley, Grant’s sister who is fighting breast cancer. She finished her chemo and began her radiation last week. She will then undergo a hysterectomy.
If you could also pray for my dear friend Khalita who is in the hospital and septic, I know she would appreciate it. www.caringbridge.org/nc/khalita
Also, I understand that Carter Finger, www.carterfinger.com is a sweet little boy in need of prayer as he has relapsed Neuroblastoma.
I will keep you posted on the baby progress after my doc appt. tomorrow.
Prego Mama-
Alison
Monday, January 8, 2007 8:01 PM CST
Update January 12, 2007
Praise the Lord....Answer to prayer....
Ben Ownsby was found at an apartment last night in Kirkwood/ St. Louis.
Not only was Ben found, but another young man named Shawn Hornbeck, who was kidnapped 4 and a half years ago, at age 11, was found at the same apartment. This is truly a miracle that both boys were found alive. Thank you Lord for returning these boys to their families.
Update: Thursday, Jan. 11th
From Union Missouri.
Monday around 4:00 P.M. William (Ben) Ownby was reported missing by his dad, he got off the bus at 3:15, but never made it home.
We have been asked us to get this information to as many people as possible.
Ben is 13 years old 4’10”, 100 lbs, has blue eyes.
He had on Blue Jeans and a Rams Hoodie.
The only lead is to be on the lookout for a small compact white pickup, possibly a Nissan that has a camper shell. The truck isn’t in the best of shape, and the camper may have wood or cardboard in the windows.
Please help in the search to bring Ben home...time is of the essence. I cannot even imagine how helpless these parents feel. Please keep them all in your prayers.
http://www.ksdk.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=110504
It is hard to believe that we only have a few weeks left until our sweet baby boy joins us …outside the belly that is !!!! I had Alexandria 3 ½ weeks early because she was frank breech and very little amniotic fluid left. Hunter made his way into the world at 38 weeks and Addison and Hayden were 37 weeks. So, seeing that I am 34 weeks, I could have only a short while until the blessed event. Did you hear that? It was a big huge, WHOOOO HOOOO coming through the computer at you. This seems like the longest pregnancy ever. I know everyone feels that way at the end, but at the end of your 5th pregnancy, I can tell you that you are REALLY over it. We are just anxious to meet the little guy who has been wreaking havoc on my body for 8 months.
According to the ultrasound the other day, he is doing great, and has a head of hair (maybe that old wives tale is true about hair and heartburn!!!) The heartburn has gotten better since I switched to Zantac vs. Tums, PTL and thanks Lisa for the tip!!! The kids were all bummed that I did not let them go to this ultrasound. Addison jumped in the car after school and said, “How’s my sweet baby brother that I have waited my whole life for?” It was so adorable. I think I may have to home school her so she can help me take care of him all day. She is going to be a pro at being a mom…eh, big sister. I can tell by the way she takes such good care of her baby dolls. Even when she was sick with a fever a few months ago, she insisted on “putting her babies to bed.” She really is going to make a great second mommy to “Baby H” and we all cannot wait.
After being in bed for almost 2 weeks with the flu/some bad bug, which had me feeling horrible and coughing uncontrollably, I finally have re-joined the human race. I feel as though I missed Christmas completely. I was only able to come out of my bedroom and watch the kids open their gifts, and then quickly go back to my state of Robitussin induced oblivion. I did force myself to eat a little dinner that Grant had prepared later that evening. That was about the extent of my “Christmas Break” with the kids. I felt bad that we were not able to do much, but the kids did not seem to mind just hanging out and playing with their new stuff.
Saturday, my “nesting” instincts officially kicked in. Scary, mostly for Grant, as his workload increased ten-fold. We cleaned and took down the Christmas tree etc., all day. After church yesterday, we continued our quest to move our office into the basement and make room for the little nipper. Actually he will be “bunking” with me in our bedroom and Grant will move out temporarily. Our babies never seem to want to sleep through the night for a good long while, (um, like a year) so why should we ALL be sleep deprived? He needs to sleep to effectively work, so that’s the plan. I will say, packing up our office has been difficult. Seeing so many things of Alexandria’s that were in the closets and drawers has really conjured up many recollections and emotions. I spent some time in the basement as well and have found things that I have not seen for years….hence the uncontrollable bawling due to hormones and walking down “memory lane” simultaneously. I found the photo album of Hunter’s birth and bringing him home from the hospital. Hard to believe that was almost 12 years ago. Alexandria was SO excited to have a baby brother. All the pictures of them together in those first weeks showed her just loving on him like crazy. She was smiling from ear to ear in every picture. In one set of pics, she had crawled into his crib to “snuggle up” with him. They were only 18 months apart. He was her personal little dolly and she was just tickled to have him there with her. She never showed signs of jealousy, just sheer happiness. (Unlike Hunter’s attitude when we brought Hayden home from the hospital and he tried to pull him from my arms) Seeing those pictures made me think of Addison and how she will be the big sister now. I am glad that I made the decision not to work on completing photo albums during this pregnancy….I would have been a wreck.
Speaking of Addison, in December, she was in our church’s Christmas program. Let’s just say that the “acting bug” may have just bitten. She only had a small speaking role, but was on stage about 90f the time. She absolutely LOVED it !!!! She said her lines each and every practice and the actual performance with every ounce of excitement and enthusiasm in her being. It was priceless. She is just like her big sister and quite the drama queen. I was backstage helping so unfortunately, I did not get to see it first hand, but have viewed the video, and it is a riot.
I went to my OB today. My hands, legs and feet are swelling a bit which is no big deal yet, but not so pretty. I asked her about my left rib which has been hurting really bad since I have had the bad cough. She felt that where it is located, I probably either pulled a muscle around my ribs, or literally broke a rib coughing so hard, for so long. I have to hold my side when I cough or try to lie down and get comfy. She said it will take up to 3 months to heal all the way and there is really nothing you can do for it. Lovely.
I hope everyone’s New Year is off to a great start. I am sure you, like everyone else, has already broken all of your resolutions…such is life. I won’t be dusting off my stationary bike for some time but I must say it holds clothes nicely.
In Him-
Alison
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