1.10.12

Liam's Fight With Neurofibromatosis Has Officially Begun

Last week we got news that no parent should ever receive. We found out that Liam, my little loving three year-old boy will start chemotherapy next week. He has something called Neurofibromatosis (NF), something I planned to write about on my blog 2 weeks ago, and I did, but couldn't bring myself to post. Liam has gone through MRIs for 2 years now, every 6 months to track tumor growth. See, NF causes tumors to grow and although they can grow anywhere on the body, they are known to
grow in the brain. Liam currently has 3 tumors and until last week, they were not growing and no intervention was necessary. Everything has changed and this journey has just begun.
Two weeks ago, when I wrote the other post, Liam was getting his 6 month scheduled MRI and I felt it, the mother's intuition, that something was different this time. I just knew it and decided not to post because I didn't want to jinx anything. The truth is, he has been through so much already and has beaten the odds every single time. We knew this would eventually happen, but it wasn't a reality until last week... an it is still sinking in.

We are waiting for the call now an every time the phone rings, I think it is the oncologist calling to schedule putting in his central line. That is, after all, the first step to this process. Then, the week after the central line is put in, the chemo treatments will begin. We will travel to Atlanta once a week for 13 weeks and I am terrified of the unknown. I can barely stand to see my son get put to sleep for MRIs every 6 months, much less, suffering daily from chemo. I want to run away with my little boy and never let this happen to him. He's such a happy little boy and I don't want his love of life to change... ever, but this will change us all.  He truly has a smile that makes everyone around him smile an I never want him to lose that.
This is the beginning and I will try to document everything that happens as we go down this long road. After 13 weeks of chemo, we will get a short break before going back for another 9 weeks. It;s going to be tough- physically, emotionally and financially for our family. For this reason, I started a fundraiser for Liam. I want to do something amazing for him, especially after the first 13 weeks come to an end. He deserves something wonderful and I would love for you to make it happen! I don't know what we will do yet; it really depends on the amount of money we raise, but we are thankful for any donations, which will be used only to benefit him in some way- be it gas for our travels, medicine or other little miracles that will bring a smile to his face. Click the Donation Button below to donate any money for Liam.

I will write more about NF and Liam's journey as we go along. Thoughts and prayers are always welcomed as are encouraging words. We hope you join us along the way as we beat NF and fight for a cure like so many other brave boys and girls out there.

25 comments:

Danielle Harper said...

::Hugs:: Remember I am always here if you need to talk or just need someone to vent to. Many prayers coming your way.

fancygrlnancy said...

I'm so sorry that Liam and your family has to go through all this. I know that you and Liam are strong and you both will get through this. My thoughts and prayers are with you. {{HUGS}}

Anonymous said...

Wow... that has to be so hard for all of you. KIds are such troopers. Prayers are with Liam and all of you and all his Doctors and nurses.

BrettBMartin said...

Liam and you will be in my prayers, Roxanne. Today, tomorrow, and for however long you need them. I wish I was closer so I could help. <3

Mary Beth said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Mary Beth said...

Oops! I'm still trying to figure out how these "blog things" work! I accidently deleted my post while trying to correct a spelling error :)


I just stumbled on your site while searching for natural parenting blogs. Your little boy looks so sweet! I'm so sorry to see that your family has to go through such a terrible struggle. Unfortunately, I can't have children of my own, but I like to torture myself with parenting blogs, and needless to say, little Liam tugs at my heart strings. He certainly looks spunky! Remember kids are tough!
(And so are mamas and daddys)

Good vibes coming your way!

Amy said...

Praying for you guys. If you ever need anything, you know ill be here for you... :D <3

Mimi N said...

Roxann, I'm so sorry you're going through this. My mama heart understand how hard and scary this must be, and yet at the same time, I can't comprehend it all since I've never been where you are. I pray that Liam will love life and be a shining example of the strength kids can have. I hope you're able to raise some $ as I know this is going to get costly. Hugs dear one!

Istin said...

May God bless with enough strength to cope up with His challenges. God loves you and lil Liam. my prayers are with you.

Jan Messali said...

I'm so sorry to hear what your sweet little Liam and your whole family is going through. I'm praying for strength and comfort for you all, and guidance for the medical personnel.
I've been through chemo myself, and have taught 2 students were going through chemo. It can be difficult, of course, but when it's all done you'll look back with a renewed sense of strength.
Hugs to you all.

Unknown said...

I have no words to say because I don't know what it is like to have a child of mine go through that but my friends child has and I saw her pain, I'm sorry does not mean a thing when I am not there to give all of you a big huge hug!! All these cancers and tumors that everyone seems to be getting need to be gone from all our lives! I am sure it is scary and a place to turn tough, if you need to chat late at night I am always on FB or twitter, praying for you!

momma2100 said...

my prayers for Liam and your family. months ago we were told my daughter probably had lymphoma. I know the thought process that goes through your mind when your given that news. As it turned out she didnt but was on 'cancer watch' for months. Please stay strong and keep your readers updated I know many will be praying.

Anne Marie said...

Roxanne, what hard news for your family to receive, especially after getting all clear reports for so long. Just know we are praying for you and I completely understand. We went through many agonizing months in the hospital with our Margaret and I got so weary of watching her suffer.

But never forget how strong and resilient little ones are, and how good God is.

Anne

Anne said...

you've got a beautiful little boy. I thought I would share, "with god, all things are possible."

The Freebie Junkie said...

I'm sorry you guys are going through this! You will be in our prayers...

Unknown said...

Lots of prayers headed to your family!!

cjabdelnour said...

May God keep your little son and your whole family in his ever loving arms. God grant you hope and peace as you deal with this. I will also be praying..

sara ford said...

My prays are you your family. Try and stay strong and know you will have so many praying and thinking about you all dearing this hard time

adamsfamily said...

Thoughts and prayers for your family.

Holly Thomas said...

I am so sorry, your Family is in my prayers.

Caffeinated Momma said...

I'm so sorry, no person should have to go through this, let alone a young child.

Anonymous said...

All my love from Team Tori. Your little NF Hero has our support. I just sent you an email...send me your address as I know Tori would love another chemo buddy to write to. You will get through this and you will be amazed by the strength of your son. I am amazed daily by my brave, brave girl.

Denise Taylor-Dennis said...

I am sorry to hear that you have to go through this with your little angel. I will keep him in my prayers. I pray that God strengthens you through this process so you can be strong for your son.

Michelle F. said...

Saying many prayers for sweet Liam and your family! God is all mighty and all knowing and he will take care of ya'll! Hugs!

Betty Roberts said...

I'm soo sorry Hun sending positive thoughts and hugs!

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