JacksonStrong

It's the beginning of a new month and while the weather here is positively lovely, I have another heart-tugging story to share. I wish I didn't. It actually sucks. It isn't my story. A friend of mine wrote me the other morning. Toni Drummond, a Zeta Tau Alpha sister, not from Rider but from an alumni group I used to belong to, asked me if I would share this story. It's about her nephew. If I can help, I help. The only way I really have of helping people is through my blog.

I copied the story from the GoFundMe page. Two weeks old is too young to have to deal with disease. At any age, no one wants to hear words like tumor or cancer. But two weeks old breaks my heart. If you feel so inclined....

From the GoFundMe:

Last Wednesday Ryan and Tara received news that no parents should ever have to hear. Their story begins like this.....

During a routine 2 week checkup, for a seemingly perfect and healthy baby boy, the pediatrician identified that Jackson's belly was distended. After a quick exam, and a second opinion, it was recommended that Jackson be taken to the ER to investigate the cause. They made their way to the ER right away, and after an MRI and Xray, it was determined that Jackson had Neuroblastoma. Neuroblastoma is a rare pediatric cancer, that requires specialized treatment. Jackson was immediately transferred to Hackensack Hospital for further testing. Jackson had to undergo an additional MRI with contrast to see where the tumor was, and how far it had spread. Tumors were identified within the spinal cord and adrenal glands; which is typical of Neuroblastoma, but it had also spread to the liver, causing the abdominal distention. A biopsy was done of the liver, and a central line was placed in Jackson's chest in order to immediately begin chemotherapy.

Jackson is now undergoing rounds of chemo that cycle 3 days on and 3 weeks off. Jackson has certainly inherited his strong will to be a fighter from his mommy and daddy. Looking at this handsome boy, you would never be able to tell how sick he is. He has been such a good boy through this all, and we all can't wait for this to be behind the family.

There is a long road ahead of the Walsh family, and we don't know what the future will bring with medical bills or out of pocket expenses. This page is geared to prepare the family for their future.

Tara and Ryan appreciate the outpouring of love, support and prayers that have been offered to their family in this time of need.

https://www.gofundme.com/b4887t8c

Facebook Page for Jackson- for info, updates, etc - https://www.facebook.com/Jacksonstrong2015

#JacksonStrong