From Rob and Jane, Michael’s parents:

“When you are told that your 18-month-old child has a rare disease that is creating tumors in his little skull, you are immediately thrust into a world of strange acronyms, foreign vocabularies and treatment options that range from bad to worse.   However, as quickly as our lives were changed, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute began to heal.  The realization that one of the leading cancer institutes in the world has a research and clinical trial program specific to Michael’s rare condition provided tremendous assurance from the start.  The professional and compassionate treatment from Dr. Blackman, Nurse Amanda Carnes, and the amazing doctors, researchers and staff at the Jimmy Fund Clinic carried Michael through repeated tests and chemotherapy as skillfully as they guided us from uncertainty through understanding.  And most of all, the amazing courage of the children who receive treatments at the Jimmy Fund Clinic inspired us to remain strong.”


Michael has conquered his disease.  You can help support the Jimmy Fund Clinic to help support children like Michael in their fight against childhood cancer.   Please click here to make a donation today in honor of Michael and his successful battle against Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. 



July 2008: An Update from Michael’s family:

Michael has come a long way in the past three years.  His last CT scan showed his tumor to be completely gone and the affected bones in his skull to be actively repairing themselves!  As always Michael is working hard to keep up with his two older brothers.  This past spring he played on the Angels Little League baseball team with his brothers, coached by his father.  He was the most enthusiastic and focused member of the team with some great hits and plays in the field.  This summer he is celebrating his 5th birthday by taking his first trip to Fenway Park with his family.  Michael is an extremely happy and healthy child with a very bright future. 





A very healthy Michael (July 4, 2008)

 

Michael

Meet Michael ... he’s disease-free!

It’s hard to believe that this lovely little boy had a rare disease called Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) that was eroding the bones deep within his skull.  Because LCH is similar to certain types of cancer, Michael and his parents came to the Jimmy Fund Clinic and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to be treated.  Amazingly, Michael’s disease was able to be controlled with a two-drug combination and by the end of his treatment the affected bones in his skull not only were free of disease but had begun to grow back to their original shape.  Throughout his weekly treatments, Michael was always a joy to see.  His magical smile and laugh made every visit a delight.  His parents, Rob and Jane, were equal partners with us in Michael’s care, ensuring that he received his oral chemotherapy drugs correctly.  Today, Michael is thriving and his parents and siblings are thrilled.