July 28th, 2013
7 p.m.
10 years ago tomorrow we joyfully opened our arms and our hearts to our first child, a little redheaded boy named Jackson. We were filled with expectations and dreams of what his life (and ours) would be like, of watching him grow into adulthood with a family of his own. Little did we know how brief our time with him would be. 9 and a half years just wasn’t enough.
Tomorrow will be quite different from years past. Instead of a party with cake and presents and laughing children, we will quietly celebrate his life, allowing our memories to wrap around us and bring us comfort. We will remember his laughter and his sweet, sweet face. We will remember the times we shared as a family, and those one-on-one moments we each had with him. Life goes on but there is void in our hearts that will never be filled.
Through our grief, we realize our love for Jackson is only a glimpse of the love God has for us. We are reminded of this when we look at our precious daughter Sophia. We are reminded of this as we await the birth of our third child, Samuel Walter Ashley, in August. Our grief for Jackson will last a lifetime but God’s love will last for eternity.
January 4th, 2013
5:45 p.m.
We have changed Jackson’s Memorial Service visitation time to 1 – 5 p.m. with the service being at 5 p.m. It will still be held on Thursday, January 10th at Parkway Baptist Church in Goodlettsville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jackson's school, Southhaven Christian School at 112 Academy Drive, Springfield TN 37172.
Many of you have asked about our 4-year old, Sophia. She is handling all of this very well. She knows that Jackson is no longer with us because he is now in Heaven. She even reminds us of that when we are sad! She is dealing with missing him in her own way. She likes to go in his room and sit in his recliner and watch the movies he loved.
We are so thankful for all of the love and support we are receiving from everyone, some of you whom we have never met but will never forget.
Sincerely,
Jack, Dana, & Sophia,
and by special delivery from Heaven,
Jackson
January 3rd, 2013
6:40 p.m.
Jackson's memorial service will be Thursday January 10th with visitation from 3-5. The service begins at 5. It will be held at Parkway Baptist Church in Goodlettsville.
January 2nd, 2013
Our sweet angel has gone to be with Jesus.
December 27th, 2012
11:40 p.m.
We can’t say enough that we are so very appreciative of the love and support shown by our family, friends and community! It means so much to us. Jackson is sleeping most of the time but we read his cards to him every day and they bring a smile to his face as well as ours.
December 20th, 2012
11:30 p.m.
Again we wish to thank everybody for the cards, love and support shown to Jackson and to us. He has gotten SO many cards and he is LOVING it!! He's received a bunch of cards from the students of our community schools. It has been awesome. Also a shout out to Cookeville First Baptist and our church, Parkway Baptist for all of their love and support.
December 18th, 2012
10:00 p.m.
We want to thank everyone for all of the cards and letters you have sent to Jackson and Sophia! We appreciate the time and effort more than you will ever know. Jackson's condition remains the same though he is a little weaker the past few days. We continue to be so very grateful for your prayers and support.
December 5th, 2012
9:50 a.m.
We know it's been a while since we updated you on Jackson. It's just so hard to know what to say. We want you to know that we truly appreciate all of your prayers and support.
This horrible disease is doing its worst on our sweet Jackson. He just isn't himself anymore. He is even more withdrawn and just wants to be left alone in his room. His face is very swollen and he can't open his right eye. He can do very little for himself and is no longer able to get up without being lifted to his wheelchair. He is such a strong little boy and doesn't complain much but we know he is in pain and we are trying to adjust his medications to keep him comfortable.
Sophia remains at his beck and call, doing everything she can to show her big brother how much she loves him.
Many of you have asked what we need. Jackson still loves getting cards in the mail. If you would like to send a card and don't have our address just let us know.
There really isn't anything else anyone can do but continue to pray for Jackson and for us during this very difficult time. Thank you for keeping us lifted up.
Sincerely,
Jack, Dana, Jackson & Sophia
October 5th, 2012
4:15 p.m.
This is the most difficult update we have ever had to share with you. We have known that Jackson’s tumors were growing because of his symptoms and we were as prepared as we could be for news we did not want to hear but no one is ever truly ready.
Jackson’s MRI shows that his tumors are growing rapidly and new tumors have formed. The new chemo we had talked about is no longer an option. So we are now struggling with whether we continue the current chemo or not. We ask for prayer to do what’s best for ourselves as well as Jackson. He is very tired and doesn’t feel like doing anything but sit in his recliner in his room. The highlight of his days is receiving the cards, letters and gifts you have sent. We thank each and every one of you from the bottom of our hearts for thinking of him. Precious little Sophia has appointed herself her brother’s keeper and is at his beck and call, running to get anything at all he needs.
Jackson has been talking about going to Heaven ever since his cancer came back last year. His understanding of his situation and his courage amaze and strengthen us. We are so comforted to know that Jesus has him wrapped in His arms. Our faith is strong though our hearts are breaking. We still believe in miracles but we know that God has a plan that we may not understand. As we said on our website over 6 years ago when we began this journey, the one thing that we learned from our infertility and the emotions that went along with it is that God is in control, HE has a time table and it isn’t about what we want and when we want it, it is all in HIS time, and HIS timing is perfect. We are relying on that knowledge today, we know that God is in control of this situation and God will do things in HIS perfect timing.
In His Perfect Love,
Jack, Dana, Jackson and Sophia
September 28th, 2012
10:00 p.m.
I wanted to update everyone on Jackson. He has had increasing headaches. one pupil dilated the other not, and balance problems... more than his usual. I took him to the doctor on Tuesday and they did a CT scan which revealed swelling in the brain. This indicates tumor growth. It may be only a small amount of growth or could be a lot. He is at home on a high dose of steroids which is helping his symptoms a lot. His next MRI is next Thursday 10/4. We will know much more then. Please pray for my Jackson and for me and his dad to make wise decisions. Thank you.
September 21st, 2012
5:30 p.m.
Jackson wants to thank everyone for the cards and prayers. He has been super excited these past few days because he has received cards everyday! This has been the highlight of his days.
His next MRI is October 4th. Thanks for continuing to lift him and our family up in prayer.
August 1st, 2012
6:10 p.m.
What an amazing day! Thank you just isn’t enough for Jack and Faye Odenand all the folks at CSX Railroad. Jack and Faye heard of Jackson’s love of trains and arranged for him to visit the train yard! Well, ‘visit’ is an understatement. He met most of the folks working there, got to watch some of the repairs, had a guided tour of the whole yard, was showered with every train-related gift imaginable, AND got to actually DRIVE A TRAIN! Well it’s only fitting since they presented him with an officially signed certificate proclaiming him an Honorary Engineer. We ended the day with a delicious late lunch at The Depot in Springfield (thanks Jack!). We had the best table in the house, right by the huge picture window where Jackson could watch the trains go by (thanks Faye for reserving it for us). I’m sure I am leaving someone out but these are just some of the folks who went out of their way to make this a day a dream come true for a Little Engineer! Doug, Craig, Ryan, Kevin, Joe, Stephanie, Mike, Bill, West and Dave. Thank You!!!
July 10th, 2012
9:20 p.m.
Jackson’s spine tumor hasn’t changed but the brain tumors have doubled in size. The plan is to stop the current chemo and start on a new drug next Wednesday with another MRI in 6 weeks. He is having more back pain and has been getting tired more easily the past few weeks.
Jackson gave his heart to Jesus a couple of years ago but hasn’t been baptized. He decided on his own last week that he is ready and will be baptized this Sunday morning. It is such a comfort that Jackson is so close to Jesus and that he shares his thoughts about Heaven with us. He says he can’t wait to get to Heaven so his back pain will be gone. While we are still praying for a cure and we know that with God all things are possible, we know that God had a plan long before Jackson was born and in His time, it will be revealed to us.
When Jackson was diagnosed in 2006, when he was not yet 3 years old, we shared our story on his website. This is an excerpt and we still hold to it today:
“The one thing that we learned from our infertility and the emotions that went along with it is that God is in control, HE has a time table and it isn’t about what we want and when we want it, it is all in HIS time, and HIS timing is perfect. We are relying on that knowledge today, we know that God is in control of this situation and God will do things in HIS perfect timing.”
“Jackson loves Jesus and knows that Jesus loves him. We all know that Jesus loves him very much and He is watching over Jackson, walking beside Jackson, and even carrying him at times, as He is all of us. Please continue to pray for our little angel.”
June 21st, 2012
6:30 p.m
Jackson was able to have one chemo drug yesterday but not the second one which is affecting his kidney function. The doctors are discussing a possible medication to help his kidneys and allow him to take the second chemo. His next chemo is July 3rd so hopefully they will have the kidney thing under control by then.
June 21st, 2012
6:30 p.m.
Jackson was able to have one chemo drug yesterday but not the second one which is affecting his kidney function. The doctors are discussing a possible medication to help his kidneys and allow him to take the second chemo. His next chemo is July 3rd so hopefully they will have the kidney thing under control by then.
June 19th, 2012
8:20 p.m.
Jackson has been having headaches and not eating well. His lab work shows he may be having kidney problems which can be a side effect of the chemo. Tomorrow (Wednesday) is chemo day but he will see a kidney doctor and his oncologist tomorrow before they can proceed with more chemo. Please remember him in your prayers. As far as we know, his MRI will still be on July 10th.
May 28th, 2012
5 p.m.
Jackson is doing well and his next MRI is July 10th. He is finished with the 2nd grade and looking forward to the 3rd. He had a great year at school and he loved his teacher. He is already enjoying summer break in his pool! He is very excited about going to the beach this summer as well.
March 27th, 2012
8:15 p.m.
Jackson’s tumors have grown a little. Current chemo is slowing them down but not stopping the growth. Chemo still tomorrow as planned and will probably need to be changed around once his regular doctor is back in town. Pray for guidance and wisdom.
March 25th, 2012
12:15 a.m.
Jackson's MRI is scheduled for Monday. Thanks so much for lifting him up in prayer!
He is doing very well since his eye surgery. We had an awesome trip to New York during spring break! Here he is at the 9/11 Memorial.
He got his report card today and he got all A's and B's. We are so proud of him, especially since he has to miss so much school.
February 12th, 2012
Jackson's visit with the eye surgeon was very promising! He is scheduled for surgery on his eye muscles on February 22nd. He will only miss a few days of school. His next MRI is still March 26th. We can't say it enough, thanks so much for your continuous support and prayers!
January 28th, 2012
Jackson is doing great! He got to be Principal for a day at school because he raised money for the missionaries (this was a second contest). He won the first contest last fall and now he won this one along with two other boys.
His next MRI is March 26th. He has an appointment with an eye doctor on February 6th regarding surgery. The muscles in one eye are not working together, therefore each eye sees a different object.
December 28th, 2011
6:00 p.m.
Results from the MRI: the spinal lesions have gotten a little bigger, not by much though. The brain stem lesion is significantly smaller but what was on the right side has gotten just a little bit bigger. Doc thinks this increase is from where he didn't have chemo for a few weeks due to having radiation. So, although not a terrible MRI, I was hoping for better news. Bottom line is that Jackson is happy, no symptoms and that makes me happy. The decision we have to make now is do we leave chemo as is or do we add another agent to the regimen? Please pray for us as we decide on the best thing to do for our Jackson.
December 25th, 2011
1:00 p.m.
Merry Christmas everyone! We are so blessed to have each of you in our lives and we are thankful that Jackson is doing well with his chemo. Please remember him in your prayers as he is having his MRI on Tuesday.
November 16th, 2011
6:00 p.m.
We haven't updated you in a few weeks but that's good! Jackson is doing great. He is tolerating his chemo every 2 weeks without any side effects and his blood work is normal. He is going to school and church and having a great time with his friends. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued prayers, support and faith.
October 30th, 2011
4:40 p.m.
Jackson did fine with chemo on Wednesday, handled it great. Praise the Lord! He is going to school and for the most part he is feeling great. As long as his numbers (lab work) stay okay, he will have chemo every other Wednesday. His next treatment will be on November 9th.
October 25th, 2011
10:25 p.m.
Jackson starts back on chemo tomorrow. He will be getting the same one as before but they are adding a second drug. Pray that he will tolerate it well and for great results!
October 19th, 2011
11:45 p.m.
We just got the results from the spinal MRI today...it is STABLE!!!! This is a HUGE Praise!! With Jackson's complaints, we've been really worried. I am on my knees in praise and thankfulness. Chemo will restart next Wednesday. It will be the same IV chemo as before with a second one added. It will increase the infusion time by about an hour. Thank you for your continued love, prayer, and support of me and my family, especially my Jackson. (from Dana)
October 16th, 2011
3:15 p.m.
Jackson did awesome today with his MRI! Thanks so much for your prayers! One more radiation treatment tomorrow.
October 14th, 2011
11:00 p.m.
He did it again!!! He did an amazing job!! Only one more treatment to go!!! He is still scheduled for his spinal MRI Sunday at 10:45 so please remember him in prayer as he has to be perfectly still for 2 hours.
October 13th, 2011
10:00 p.m.
Once again Jackson had no problems with the radiation treatment. His breathing still doesn't seem quite right to us but he says he is okay. He also hasn't complained about his legs hurting for a few days. We are very thankful that pain is gone. On Sunday morning at 10:45, he will have an MRI of his spine. He will have to lie still for 2 hours in a confined space but we know he can do it with everyone praying for him. We can't thank you enough for your prayers.
October 12th, 2011
6:50 p.m.
Jackson did great again today! We are so proud of him. Only 3 more treatments!
October 11th, 2011
4:25 p.m.
Another down with 4 more to go and yes, he rocked it again! Thank you all for your continued prayers.
October 10th, 2011
9:25 p.m.
We are very thankful to report that the CT scan Jackson had today is stable!!! Praise God !!! We are also very thankful for Dr. Esbenshade and his care and concern for Jackson as well as for us. He just called us at home with the results instead of waiting until tomorrow.
October 10th, 2011
3:58 p.m.
Jackson once again did great during his treatment, THANK YOU JESUS!
We have noticed the past few days Jackson's breathing has become slightly labored and he is having pain in both of his legs. These are new issues and the docs do not take any chances with Jackson's health. He has gained weight due to medication so that could be a reason for the breathing issues or more likely it is from inflammation caused by radiation (this will correct itself). The pain in his legs could also be caused by the radiation as well. With that said, we are currently waiting at Vandy for a CT scan and he will have a spinal MRI sometime this week.
Please keep him in your prayers, we could really use some encouraging news. On a side note, Jackson had to get an IV for the CT scan. He was afraid, but his favorite nurse, Ms. Chris was in the clinic today so she did it and got it on the 2nd try. He's a hard stick so that in itself was a miracle.
October 7th, 2011
4:00 p.m.
Jackson did his treatment in record time today...30 minutes!! He rocked it again!!! Thank you for your continued prayers for my Jackson. We are once again praising our Lord for holding Jackson in His arms, comforting him, and for providing safety from the radiation.
Time change for next week, he will have treatments at 2:30.
October 6th, 2011
3:00 p.m.
Thanks to our Prayer Warriors!
Jackson did AWESOME today! This is a 30 minutes procedure which took 2 1/2 hours on Monday when he got scared, an hour yesterday because they had to stop for a few minutes when he got too hot, then today he went through it with no tears and no interruptions at all. The radiation oncologist and Child Life specialist were so excited about how well he did. We are so proud of our brave little boy. Thanks so much for the prayers which are getting him through this every day.
We thank God for each and every one of you!
October 5th, 2011
3:20 p.m.
Jackson had a much better time with his treatment today! As you know we believe in the power of prayer and we are so grateful that you continue to pray for Jackson. We have asked everyone to pray for him at 11 each morning, Monday through Friday through the 17th until his treatments are over. Your prayers are getting him (and us) through this very difficult time. If you are on Facebook, we have created an event for this special prayer time.
October 4th, 2011
8:10 p.m.
Jackson had a difficult time with his treatment today because he got scared, which is so unusual for Jackson. He is such a brave little boy and usually takes it all in stride. This procedure is like doing surgery with radiation rays instead of a knife so it is imperative that he not move at all.
For the treatment, he has to wear a very tight mask that is clamped down over his entire face with a mouth piece, like a bite block. He felt like he couldn't breathe and they had to keep stopping. The treatment took 2 hours instead of 30 minutes. He has 9 more treatments to go, every day at 11 a.m. except for the weekend. They are going to increase the sedative dose tomorrow but they can't put him to sleep entirely.
He has also been in a lot of pain with his ear and neck, requiring pain medication.
Please pray for God to fill his mind with peace and his lungs with air so that he won't panic and can get these treatments done.
October 3rd, 2011
7:50 p.m.
Jackson's radiation treatment has been changed to 2:30 tomorrow afternoon. He is doing very well and the doctor said that he should be able to go back to school. Please join us in praying that the radiation will hit only the cancer cells and do no damage to the healthy vital cells in his brainstem.
September 28th, 2011
4:50 p.m.
Update from Aunt DoDo (Carolyn)
Prayer Warriors, please pray for Jackson and constantly keep him in your thoughts and heart. Jack and Dana just found out today that he has a tumor on his brain stem. With or without treatment, it’s all in God’s hands as to how much more time we will have this precious little boy with us. Jack and Dana have decided to do radiation therapy, tentatively on Tuesday, praying for good results but knowing that if something happens, it’s time for Jackson to see the Heaven and his Jesus he has been talking about for months.
We don’t know if it’s Jackson’s time or not as we have seen God’s miracles performed in his life time and time again. There is always hope. Dr. Esbenshade and Dr. Tenenholz are working very hard to make sure the radiation treatment calculations are exact and will only hit the tumor. Please pray that God will have His hands on those of Dr. Tenenholz as he gives the treatment. There is a possibility that the radiation will knock out his respiratory system and he would have to be on a ventilator to breathe.
We can find comfort no matter what happens in knowing that God has been holding Jackson very close all along and Jackson has been talking about Heaven since his cancer came back in April. He asked his mom back then if there were toys and food in Heaven. The other day he talked excitedly about how he couldn’t wait to see those streets of gold but he wants to take his Pokemon cards with him. God has been preparing this young soul for whenever He calls him home and in doing so I believe he has used Jackson to prepare those of us who love him so much by sharing with us what He has shared with Jackson.
God has also been preparing Jack and Dana since the very first moment they learned he had cancer. Their faith has not faltered and they have been a comfort to everyone around them, probably more so than we have been to them. I would encourage you to go back to Jackson’s Home Page and read their story. But here are a couple of things written by Jack and Dana when Jackson was first diagnosed in April of 2006 that have stuck with me through it all and it is just as true today as it was back then.
“The one thing that we learned from our infertility and the emotions that went along with it is that God is in control, HE has a time table and it isn’t about what we want and when we want it, it is all in HIS time, and HIS timing is perfect. We are relying on that knowledge today, we know that God is in control of this situation and God will do things in HIS perfect timing.”
“Jackson loves Jesus and knows that Jesus loves him. We all know that Jesus loves him very much and He is watching over Jackson, walking beside Jackson, and even carrying him at times, as He is all of us. Please continue to pray for our little angel.”
September 20th, 2011
6:50 p.m.
Jackson's MRI showed growth in one of his tumors. He hasn't had radiation to this particular tumor so the doctors are discussing that as a possible treatment. There are some different chemo drugs they may decide to use instead of the one he has been on as well. Please pray for the doctors to come up with the right combination of treatments to beat this tumor! In spite of everything, he is still loving school and his teacher Mrs. Davis and came home with almost straight A's on his report card! We are so proud of him.
September 16th, 2011
12:40 a.m.
Jackson has been complaining of some pain in his face so he will be having an MRI this Saturday morning. Please keep him lifted up for a good report.
August 30th, 2011
1:40 p.m.
Jackson is having another great week at school. He has loved being back and seeing his friends everyday. His teacher, Mrs. Davis has been awesome, of course we think everyone at his school is awesome. Mrs. Davis has a special chair for Jackson to sit in. It’s an adult chair that is cushioned so that his back won’t hurt as much. It’s been so much better for his back compared to the small, plastic chairs. Anyway, we love Mrs. Davis already and we are very thankful for her.
Exciting news at school this week...Jackson is student of the week! He is very excited and we are excited for him.
Our friends, family, and our church family has been so awesome to us and we just want to say “Thank You” to everyone again. Your prayers, love, and support has meant so much to us and we can never express to you just how much it means to us. We know Jackson is still with us and getting healthier everyday due to all the prayers being said on his behalf. We especially want to say a big “Thank You” to our new friends in Cookeville, TN. Jackson’s friend, Ryan Carrigan has grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. Joyner) who live in Cookeville and they have helped spread the word about Jackson in their church. Jackson gets cards almost everyday from someone that attends the First Baptist Church and we simply can not tell you how much that means to us and especially to Jackson. We have an awesome church in Parkway Baptist but I tell you, Cookeville Baptist it right up there with ours. So, we just want our Cookeville friends to know how much appreciate them and love them for loving and praying for our son. Thank you so very much for every prayer, card, and gift. You (and our church too) has made such a difference in our lives and in Jackson’s. May God bless each and every one of you.
August 26th, 2011
12:15 a.m.
We are praising God for wonderful news!
Jackson's MRIs show that one brain tumor has shrunken down to dead tissue. The other hasn't changed any but at least it hasn't grown. The tumor on his spine has shrunken down to a tiny amount of tissue. There are 2 other 'spots' that they have been keeping an eye on which have grown just a little. He will have frequent MRIs to watch those.
He will still continue chemo for a year. Jackson's kind of tumor, choroid plexus carcinoma, is very uncommon and there really isn't a proven treatment. The chemo he is on has been successful in treating other cancers but has never been tried on his. Maybe this will be a breakthrough for other kids with this form of cancer!
He had a few rough days last week and actually spent a night in the hospital after complaining of severe back pain. We have no idea what caused that pain but he is doing very well now.
August 16th, 2011
6:00 p.m.
Jackson's first day of school was today and he is so excited to see all of his friends again. And we are so thankful he is able to go to school! He is already collecting money "for missionaries". The child to collect the most money wins a prize and he aims to win :)
Now Sophia is another story. She is not at all happy that big brother isn't home all day to play with her.
He is doing very well with his chemo. His next MRI is this Monday, the 22nd. Thank you as always for keeping him lifted up.
July 21st, 2011
12:30 p.m.
Jackson is tolerating his chemo very well! Thanks for all of your prayers. Another reason to rejoice is his lab work is all normal in spite of the chemo. His 8th birthday is this Friday. He is excited about that of course and is also looking forward to going back to school in a couple of weeks. He missed a few months at the end of the last session but has caught up and is ready for 2nd grade :)
July 13th, 2011
11:30 p.m.
It's been a while since our last update but that's a good thing because it means our lives are fairly normal! Jackson is doing really good with his chemo. Please pray each transfusion goes well. It's so hard to believe he will be 8 years old in a few weeks! Praise God!
June 25th, 2011
10:30 a.m.
Jackson is doing very well. He has a problem with one eye being "lazy" and is wearing a patch for a few hours a day. His MRI last Friday showed that one brain tumor hasn't changed and one is smaller. The lesion on his spine is smaller also. Praise God for smaller!!! His oncologist has consulted with doctors at Duke and they have come up with a treatment plan that involves more chemotherapy pills and also he will start on intravenous chemo next Wednesday. He will get that chemo every other week for a year. Duke has had success using this chemo for highly aggressive tumors like Jackson's. Supposedly there are fewer side effects from this chemo than others he has had in the past. Thanks so much for your continued prayers!
June 15th, 2011
9:15 a.m.
We are back home after a much needed and much enjoyed week in Gulf Shores. It was good to get away and we are so blessed that Jackson is doing so well. His next MRI is this Friday. Please lift him up for good results.
June 6th, 2011
9:10 a.m.
Jackson finished chemo and radiation and had his last IV antibiotic last night! Praise the Lord! He is running around acting like a little boy should, playing and laughing. He attended his awards ceremony at school last week and received 5 awards, including the Principle's Honor Roll :) We are so proud of him and so thankful for all of the prayers and God's grace that have brought him this far.
He will have an MRI next week to determine the status of the tumors. We pray they are continuing to shrink.
May 31st, 2011
12:10 a.m.
Jackson is doing really well! He was able to go to school for field day for a short time and loved seeing all of his friends again. He finishes both chemo and radiation on Thursday and his last dose of IV antibiotics is next Monday. We are so blessed! To God be the Glory. Please keep praying. He will have scans in a couple of weeks to see how the tumors have responded to chemo and radiation.
May 24th, 2011
11:40 p.m.
Lots of praise today! We went to the doctor yesterday because no one could access Jackson's port over the weekend. He could have been looking at another surgery to replace it. Much to everyone's surprise, it is not only working now, but even better than before! Then today, Jackson was able to go to school for half a day. This is his first time back since the second week of April! He had an awesome time with all of his schoolmates! Your prayers do make a difference!
May 22nd, 2011
11:40 p.m.
Jackson had a good week but last night his port stopped working. We spent most of the night in the emergency room. They had to start an IV in his hand for his antibiotics and we go to the doctor tomorrow to see about getting another port placed. That means more surgery but he really needs that port for the antibiotics. His veins are really difficult to find and he would need a new IV every few days.
May 18th, 2011
7:30 p.m.
Giving God the glory for the change in Jackson! He is feeling very well and hasn't needed his walker in a week! He is able to function independently and can even go up the stairs by himself. He is up running around playing with Sophia just like he used to. If only you could hear his laughter!
He is still on chemo but is able to take a pill at home. He is also getting antibiotics for 3 weeks through his portacath. He still can't control the movement of his left eye and he can't move his right eye to the right but he seems to have adjusted to it and can play with his Nintendo and watch TV.
He had another CT scan Monday. The tumor on one side of his brain has not grown any and the one on the other side is "mush". The doctor says that is a GOOD thing! Praise God for mush. The tumor on his spine has more than doubled but isn't causing any symptoms. He starts radiation on that area this week. The doctor says the combination of chemo and radiation will make the treatment more effective.
We are very thankful for the medical staff at Vanderbilt and the treatments they provide and to the doctors in Boston who recommended this particular chemo drug but we are most thankful for your prayers. God's people are truly awesome.
May 14th, 2011
6:00 p.m.
Jackson is back home at last. The CT of his neck is normal but the mass on his spine is larger. He sees the radiation oncologist on Tuesday and will have radiation to his spine on Wednesday or Thursday.
May 10th, 2011
10:20 p.m.
Jackson is back in the hospital tonight. He has been having neck pain and a low-grade fever. They have decided to put him back on stronger antibiotics through his IV. At first they were going to take his shunt out but it looked OK on the CT scan so thankfully they are going to leave it alone, at least for now. He would have needed an external shunt for several days until the infection cleared up and then he would need surgery again to put the internal shunt back in. We are praying the infection responds to the antibiotics and he doesn't have to have the shunt removed. He will be in the hospital for several days.
May 8th, 2011
11:45 p.m.
We apologize for the lack of updates. This has been an exhausting week for all of us. Jackson didn't get to come home until last night. We are so glad to sleep in our own beds.
Jackson had an MRI on Friday which showed the tumor on his spine is larger but the brain tumor is slightly smaller! Praise God for that. He started chemo a couple of days ago but the dose had to be decreased because they are talking about doing more radiation, this time to the tumor on his spine.
A special prayer request - he has trouble focusing his eyes due to pressure on his optic nerves. This is very frustrating for him. Please pray that his vision will improve. He also misses going to school and church! So far the chemo has caused minimal nausea but please pray about that as well.
Thanks so much for the prayers and encouragement and for signing Jackson's guest book. We read every entry and truly appreciate each and every one.
May 3rd, 2011
7:50 p.m.
Jackson will be in the hospital until Thursday for antibiotics through his IV. Then he will switch to pills and be able to come home. We are also hoping to start chemo on Thursday!
May 2nd, 2011
10:20 p.m.
On a good note, Jackson's speech has returned to normal and he is talking up a storm! His smile is almost back to normal and he is laughing again. Praise God for answered prayer! The CT scan of his abdomen did not show an abscess which is good news also. He will probably be able to go home tomorrow on antibiotics.
May 2nd, 2011
8:10 p.m.
Jackson has had a setback and is in the hospital again. This time it's an infection in one of the incisions from the shunt placement 2 weeks ago. He is on strong antibiotics so hopefully the infection will clear up quickly. We will know more tomorrow. Pray ...
May 1st, 2011
2:25 p.m.
Jackson's really tired so hasn't been able to do a lot but he tries. He wanted to go to church this morning but didn't feel like staying very long. He goes to the doctor on Wednesday and starts his chemo (pill form) then. He will also have another MRI of his spine because his back has been hurting. Please continue to pray for our precious little boy.
April 25th, 2011
8:25 p.m.
Jackson's CT is stable!!!! Praise You God!!! The doctors were very excited. We don't have much info at this time but a MRI will be done this week on his head/spine and a treatment plan is being discussed. Looks like chemo in pill form with additional radiation. That's all we know at this point and nothing is set in stone yet. Please continue praying. We also got to come home today!
April 24th, 2011
10:00 p.m.
Jackson hasn't slept well the past 2 nights so he is really tired but all in all, it's been a good day. He is eating a lot now! Looking forward to going home tomorrow after a CT scan. Please pray that this scan shows the radiation is working and the tumor is shrinking.
April 23rd, 2011
8:35 p.m.
Jackson has done well today, sitting on the couch in his hospital room most of the day. He enjoyed some Mama time watching Milo and Otis. He had several friends come by and really enjoyed their visits. His room is filling up with toys and other gifts :) He is really excited that the Easter Bunny is coming to his hospital room AND his house! He hopes to come home Monday after his radiation treatment. The doctors will be meeting again on Monday also to discuss his case again. They have consulted with some doctors in Boston who suggested some new treatment options.
April 21st, 2011
11:45 p.m.
Jackson has had another good day. No radiation today - it's Monday, Wednesday and Friday. He has had lots and lots of visitors including his friends Ryan and Ethan. That is such a blessing because he misses his friends so much. When his buddies are here, he is a different kid. His teacher and her husband brought a huge bouquet of balloons from his classmates as well as tons of cards and all kinds of gifts. We have also received TONS of gift cards and money from his school friends and their families. His school (South Haven Christian School) has been such a blessing to us. We are so thankful for them. His principle and his family also came to visit. His classmates made a video with all of them saying hi. Jackson made one back for them. It was precious. We are so thankful for all of our friends and family! We are so blessed even when we are down in the valley.
April 20th, 2011
8:45 p.m.
We are praising God for this great day!
Jackson has had a better day. Radiation went well. He has talked more today, eaten much better and PT sat him up. He even got to go downstairs because the zoo came to the hospital. We couldn't stay long but it was a nice change for him and he enjoyed it. We had several visitors today which was awesome and he has been awake all day.
He will have radiation treatments tomorrow, Friday, Monday and Tuesday.
The posts in the guestbook are so encouraging for us. Thank you!
A sweet boy
taking a nap
after his bath
April 18th, 2011
6:10 p.m.
Jackson did well in surgery with the shunt placement. He is awake enough to say he is thirsty and is eating a few ice chips. He can have his head a little lower now so he doesn't have to sit up all the time. Hopefully that will help him to rest better tonight. The plans are still for radiation on Wednesday.
April 18th, 2011
11:30 p.m.
Please continue to lift Jackson up in prayer today. He is going into surgery at 1 to have a shunt placed to drain some of the fluid that has built up around his brain. Once the fluid has decreased he will start radiation treatments to the largest tumor, most likely on Wednesday.
April 17th, 2011
9:30 p.m.
Jackson was admitted to ICU at Vanderbilt this morning but is doing better tonight. His tumor had caused some bleeding but it has stopped praise God. He is now opening his eyes and answering questions though he is very tired. He is very restless, can't stop moving trying to get comfortable. He has to keep the head of the bed up and he wants to lie flat. Please pray for a restful night's sleep for him. The Vanderbilt doctors are getting together with doctors from St. Jude's tomorrow morning to discuss treatment options. Once again, thank you for all the prayers. We have heard that prayers are being lifted up by people and churches who don't even know Jackson. Thank you.
April 15th, 2011
11:20 a.m.
We don't have all of the test results yet but the second MRI showed a spot on Jackson's spine. We meet with the radiation oncologist this afternoon and all of the doctors are meeting Monday to discuss options. Jackson is on pain medication every 6 hours and his headaches are under control but he is drowsy from the medication and hasn't been able to go to school. As in the song you hear playing as you read this page, we don't know the Father's plan but we do know He will always be with us and we know His angels are watching over our Jackson. Thank you for all of the prayers lifting him up, as well as us.
April 11th, 2011
11:20 p.m.
Our hearts are heavy tonight but our God is very near to provide whatever we need. Jackson's tumor has come back. The surgeon feels at this time that it is inoperable. It has developed since his last MRI 2 months ago and is almost as large as his first tumor was.
We don't know if chemo or radiation are options. He will have more tests tomorrow and we meet with the doctors at 1:30 on Wednesday to see what the plan is. Pray for strength and courage for us on this journey and physical comfort for Jackson as he has been having very painful headaches.
April 6th, 2011
8:10 p.m.
Jackson is having his next MRI this Saturday at 1. We know we don't even have to ask for your prayers and we are so grateful to have you all in our lives.
February 7th, 2011
11:30 p.m.
Jackson asks for prayers as he is having his MRI tomorrow afternoon.
January 14th, 2011
12:50 a.m.
We had a wonderful Christmas with family and friends, followed by a quick trip to Pigeon Forge. Jackson and Sophia are growing up so fast. Hope you enjoy the photo album below of the past year. Time flies. Jackson's 3 months MRI is February 8th so please keep him lifted up.
December 30th, 2010
7:40 p.m.
Click here to view this photo book larger
November 12th, 2010
11:58 a.m.
A big heartfelt "Thank You" to everyone who prayed for my Jackson. His MRI is clear!! We are praising God for this wonderful news!
November 7th, 2010
9:55 a.m.
Jackson did very well with having his ear tubes placed this week and his hearing is much improved! Please lift him up as he is having his 3-month MRI this Thursday.
August 28th, 2010
9:35 p.m.
Swim Across America Nashville raised over $40.000 for cancer research, prevention and treatment! Jackson's swim school, Sea Star Swim School in Hendersonville, participated in this event in honor of Jackson.
August 9th, 2010
7:42 p.m.
Jackson's MRI is clear! Praise God!!! We are so blessed.
August 5th, 2010
12:27 a.m.
Jackson's MRI is this afternoon at 5. Please lift him up in prayer for another clear result.
This Saturday Jackson will be swimming at Sea Star Swim School to raise money for cancer research, prevention and treatment! We are very proud of our awesome little guy.
July 8th, 2010
6:36 p.m.
New photos added!
June 27th, 2010
4:00 p.m.
We all had a very exciting time Friday night at the White House Relay for Life Event. Jackson is an honorary member of The Small Soldiers Relay for Life Team, a team which exists in honor of him and in memory of another little soldier, Ethan Bibb, who lost his battle with cancer on May 16th, 2010. Jackson was asked to be Grand Marshal of the Survivor Lap, an honor he had hoped to share with Ethan. The team raised over $1100 at the event and over $2000 in donations prior to the event. Jackson raised the most with a total of $520.20! We have posted photos here. Be sure to visit Jackson's Relay page also!
May 11th, 2010
12:27 p.m.
Yet again, we are praising God for Jackson's clear MRI! He had it done Saturday and was such a brave little guy, as always. Thank you for your continued prayers and support. His next MRI will be in 3 months.
We have posted a few new photos on our photo album site, http://jacksonsophia.shutterfly.com/. One of these days we are going to sit down and upload the hundreds of photos we have on our camera :)
February 9th, 2010
6:50 p.m.
We are praising God for another clear MRI! Jackson did very well yesterday despite the fact that it was his first MRI without sedation. He never moved the entire time. What a tough little guy. Thanking each and every one of you for your continued prayers. Our next MRI will be in 3 months.
January 29th, 2010
5:30 p.m.
It's hard to believe Christmas has come and gone and it's almost February! Jackson and Sophia had a great Christmas and Jackson is doing very well in school. We keep meaning to update more often and add more pictures but time just gets away from us.
Jackson's next MRI is February 8th. Please join us in claiming another clear scan. As always, thanks to each and every one of you for keeping us lifted up in your prayers.
November 12th, 2009
11:00 p.m.
Another clear MRI!!! Praise God!
October 27th, 2009
7:00 p.m.
Wow how time flies! Jackson finished his treatments without any problem. His next MRI is November 9th. We are praising God he is doing so well. Please keep him lifted up for a clear MRI. He loves school and had a wonderful report card. Both he and Sophia are growing so fast. It's hard to believe Sophia will turn 1 in December!
September 13th, 2009
8:00 p.m.
3 weeks down and 3 to go! Way to go Jackson!
Jackson is tolerating his treatments very well. He is so cooperative which makes it soooooo much easier. He still loves school also. Nothing can slow him down :)
August 26th, 2009
10:50 p.m.
Jackson is doing very well with his radiation treatments. He listens to his music and lies perfectly still for the entire 20 minutes. We call the treatments 'laser treatments' and the radiologist calls his specially made mask a 'superhero' mask so Jackson thinks all of this is really cool.
He hasn't shown any evidence of side effects except he is a little tired at night but that may be because of school, which he loves.
We want to thank the Open Door Class and the Encouragers Class at Parkway Baptist Church, and Mary Lee Carrigan (Ryan's mom) for sponsoring Jackson through a program at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. Through their generosity, Jackson gets a gift every single day of therapy. Each day he gets a small gift and on Friday's, he gets a special gift. It makes it so much easier for him when he has something to look forward to :)
August 22nd, 2009
4:30 p.m.
Jackson did very well with his port placement on Thursday and with his radiation simulation yesterday. He starts radiation therapy on Monday. He loves school and his teacher even though "she's a girl".
August 13th, 2009
3:50 p.m.
Our visit with the radiation oncologist went very well. Jackson begins radiation treatments on the 24th and will have 5 treatments a week for 6 weeks. We are going to schedule the treatments either in the morning or evening so he won't have to miss school. He will have a port placed next Thursday because he will have blood work once a week and MRIs every 3 months for the next 2 years. He has no veins so we are so glad he is getting another port. It will be so much easier for him.
His recovery from surgery has gone extremely well. He is back to his normal self and is eating well.
August 6th, 2009
11:30 p.m.
Jackson got to come home from the hospital today and is doing well. He doesn't have much appetite and is a little fussy but that's to be expected after what he has been through and with being on steroid therapy. The pathology isn't back yet on his tumor but it had the characteristics of his first tumor, a choroid plexus carcinoma. We have an appointment with the radiation oncologist on Tuesday. We are all very happy to be home and to have the surgery behind us.
August 5th, 2009
4:30 p.m.
Jackson is doing great today! He had a post-operative MRI last night that was normal. He has no signs of brain injury or facial nerve injury. His physical therapy and speech therapy exams today were perfectly normal, praise the Lord! He walked a few steps today and tomorrow physical therapy is coming to help him get more active. If he continues to do well, he may even get to come home tomorrow! He really misses his baby sister. Daddy is going to bring her tonight for a visit. We may not be able to get her away from Jackson so Kat can take her back home :)
Dr. Pearson says that once he cut through the skull the tumor was "just sitting there staring at me". He was able to cut all the way around it to remove it. We don't have the pathology report back yet and we are praying for a miracle that the tumor is benign but if that isn't God's will, we will face whatever tomorrow holds standing firm in our faith. God is in control.
Jackson has LOVED getting your cards the past couple of weeks. It's his job to get the mail out of the box everyday and the day there were 25 cards just for him gave him the biggest smile ever :) He looks at them over and over and can't believe they are really for him.
August 4th, 2009
11:50 p.m.
Jackson's surgery went very well. Dr. Pearson was able to remove the tumor and scrape the tissue around it so we are very hopeful that all the cancer was removed. Jackson is in the ICU overnight. Thanks so much for your continued prayers and support. We will post more tomorrow.
August 1st, 2009
12:40 a.m.
Jackson's MRI and spinal fluid are negative for metastasis, Praise God! His surgery to remove the brain tumor is scheduled for Tuesday August 4th. We were very encouraged when Dr. Pearson showed us the MRI images of Jackson's first tumor 3 years ago and compared it to the image of the tumor he has now - what a difference! We had forgotten how HUGE the first tumor was. The one now is very small and Dr. Pearson feels like he can get right to it to remove it. We're not sure about the treatment plan yet, chemo vs radiation, but Dr. Kuttesch, Jackson's oncologist is setting it up for us to talk with the radiation oncologist. 3 years ago there were a lot of risks associated with Jackson's age but now that he is older radiation is an option.
Thanks so much for your prayers and support. They mean so much to us. Keep lifting Jackson up, praying for healing.
July 25th, 2009
11:30 p.m.
We all had a wonderful time at Jackson's birthday party. We have set up a new Photo Gallery using Shutterfly.com. We know you will want to look at all 152 photos so here is the link: www.jacksonsophia.shutterfly.com. Our older pictures are still in our old photo gallery.
July 24th, 2009
1:50 p.m.
On Wednesday July 22nd we heard the word we never wanted to hear again, tumor. Jackson's MRI on Monday showed that his tumor has returned. We are devastated but after seeing the oncologist, Dr. Kuttesch, we walked away feeling very positive. The tumor is very small and round. Jackson has no neurological symptoms and the tumor is not branching out. His first tumor 3 years ago was much larger. The tumor is in the same location as before and probably grew from cells that were lying dormant these past 3 years.
Usually this type of tumor comes back within 2 years. Jackson's tumor was removed 3 years ago and he finished chemo over 2 years ago. The length of time that has passed is "more good than bad" according to Dr. Kuttesch.
Dr. Pearson, the neurosurgeon who did Jackson's surgeries 3 years ago is already on board and will be presenting Jackson's case at the Tumor Board conference at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital on Monday. We go Tuesday for another head and spine MRI and also a lumbar puncture to check for cells in the spinal fluid. On Thursday it's back to Dr. Kuttesch to find out the test results and discuss the plan of care. Dr. Kuttesch reassured us that there are new treatment options that were not available 3 years ago.
We ask you to lift up Jackson with specific prayer requests:
Pray that this thing is GONE on Tuesday . . . but if it's not God's Will then we ask in His name that Dr. Pearson will be able to remove the entire tumor and that it hasn't spread.
Jackson starts school on August 18th. Pray for quick healing so that he does not miss much school. Should he need chemo, we pray that he will feel well enough to keep up.
Sitting down with Jackson to explain what is going on was very difficult but he took it very well. He really doesn't remember much of what he went through before. We explained to him that he has a knot in his head called a mass. He said "I have a mask in my head?". He knows he will probably need surgery and he is at peace with that. We reminded him that God had healed him once and could do it again.
Last night he saw Mommy crying and asked why I was upset. Before I could answer he said "I know, you’re worried about the MRI! Mommy, I'm fine. Stop worrying." I started to explain again that he shouldn't be afraid because God is taking care of him but he interrupted and said "I know all that, we don't have to talk about this again." That's our little man - he has a direct line to Jesus so there is no cause for concern.
We know that we have a long hard road ahead of us but we believe with every fiber of our being that God is not done with Jackson here on earth and that He has a very special purpose for him. We are now at total peace with our situation. And should we forget, Jackson will remind us!
Tomorrow, we will gather with family and friends at The Aquarium to celebrate Jackson's 6th birthday (BD is July 29th). And celebrate we will, not only his birthday but his healing. We feel God's presence with us and both of our little angels every second of every day. Your prayers do make a difference!
June 24th, 2009
10:40 p.m.
Wow! Time flies! Things are going very well in the Ashley household. Jackson and Sophia are both strong and healthy and growing oh so fast. We promise to have more photos posted soon :) So much going on. Jackson's next MRI is July 20th and his 6th birthday is July 29th! Please join us in claiming yet another clear MRI.
April 10th, 2009
5 a.m.
This is the 3rd anniversary of Jackson being diagnosed. We are so blessed that he is healthy, strong and cancer-free!
March 3rd, 2009
8:20 p.m.
Check out Jackson's Last Chemo sign to the right! 2 YEARS! Praise God.
February 14th, 2009
11:30 p.m.
We have updated our Honorary Engineer page regarding Ben, who just got home from the hospital.
January 26th, 2009
9:15 p.m.
Jackson saw his oncologist, Dr. Kuttesch yesterday and received a clean bill of heath! In fact, he is doing so well that Dr. Kuttesch does not need to see him again for 6 months.
We also want to let you know that we are adding a new page to the website. Since we began our journey, we have been contacted by other parents who have found Jackson's site by searching for information on their own children's tumors. You have read about some of them in our updates. The new page is still under construction but we have sadly learned that one special little boy, Ben, who lives in England, will be undergoing surgery on the 29th again because his tumors have come back. Please pray for Ben, Neil and Nicky.
January 21st, 2009
9 a.m.
Jackson's MRI is clear, praise the Lord! Thank you all for your continuous support and prayers. Mommy plans to write a longer update soon, but as you can imagine, she has her hands full with Jackson and baby Sophia.
January 3rd, 2009
6:20 p.m.
Just wanted to update everyone on how we are doing. Sophia is doing great and Jackson is adjusting well to having a baby sister in the house :) He loves loving on her. We also want to ask that you join us in claiming another clear MRI for Jackson. His next MRI is January 19th. We praise God for the health of both of our children!
December 14th, 2008
8:20 p.m.
Great news! Mommy and Sophia are both at home and doing well. Sophia is such a good baby! She is taking her bottles without a problem. Jackson is beside himself - he can't stop hugging and kissing on her. We are so happy to be home and also wanted to say that we were very blessed to have had 2 nurses whom we go to church with, Becca and Amy, taking care of Sophia in the NICU. We received wonderful care from everyone at the hospital and we are very grateful to all.
December 12th, 2008
9:10 a.m.
Sophia is still in the NICU but she is doing very well and may get to come home tomorrow or Sunday. She doesn't need the IV or feeding tube anymore and they are just watching her blood sugar for another day or so. Mommy is being discharged today so hopefully Sophia won't have to stay much longer! We truly appreciate your prayers and support. We will post more pictures once we get settled at home :)
December 10th, 2008
1:00 a.m.
Just a quick update on Sophia - she is progressing as expected and the doctors in the NICU are pleased. She did decide that she didn't like the bottle quite as much as she first thought so she now has a feeding tube and an IV but those are only temporary until her little body gets used to things. Jackson is not very happy as he was expecting to take her home with him right after she was born! He kept looking through the nursery window and asking "so how are we gonna get her out of there?" No need for her and mommy to stay in the hospital :) Mommy should be released on Friday and we are all praying that Sophia gets to come home with her.
December 8th, 2008
11:00 p.m.
Our Third Miracle!
Miss Sophia Kathleen Ashley has arrived! Born at 12:23 p.m., she weighed 12 pounds 2 ounces and is 23 inches long! Wow! You can see her pictures here. She is doing very well though her blood sugar was a little low, requiring her to go to the ICU overnight. But don't worry, that's common in larger babies. It will just take a little time for her to get in the swing of things. Jackson's blood sugar was low when he was born and it took a couple of days to normalize.
Our God is an awesome God who has given us three miracles in 5 short years! First we had the birth of Jackson when we thought we would never experience pregnancy, then his cure from cancer, and now Sophia! We are so blessed. Thank you for your continued prayers and support for our family. We will keep you posted on Sophia's progress.
December 5th, 2008
10:15 a.m.
Just wanted to let everyone know that Jackson's baby sister, Sophia, has decided she wants to arrive early. We are now excitedly anticipating her arrival on December 8th! We will post photos as soon as we have them. Please keep us in your prayers.
November 17th, 2008
4:30 p.m
It's been a while since we have posted but we have been very busy with a lot of very exciting changes in our lives! First of all, we want to let everyone know how well Jackson is doing. He is growing and full of energy! We moved into our new home in September and Jackson loves his new room and most of all his playroom. He also has a new cat named Tiger. But he is most excited about becoming a big brother! He can't wait to see his "little girl" who is due to make her appearance on or about December 14th. According to Jackson, her name is "OSophia". No, the 'O' is not a typo. Mommy and Daddy have not quite agreed on the name yet :) Hmmm.
September 24th, 2008
10:30 p.m
We are so thankful to tell you that Jackson's MRI was completely normal! Thanks so much for your continued prayers and support. Jackson is now 17 months out of treatment, praise God!
September 13th, 2008
10:20 p.m
We can't believe 4 months have passed since Jackson's last MRI. His next scan is coming up on September 22nd. Once again, we ask that you lift him up in prayer and join us in claiming a clear MRI and continued good health. He is such a brave little man when it comes to the IV sticks but just in case, please ask for peace and courage for him.
Jackson got to see Thomas the Tank Engine once again last weekend - and no, he still isn't tired of Thomas!
For those of you keeping up with Jackson's buddy Ryan Carrigan, we praise God that Ryan's MRI was clear on September 2nd!
July 12th, 2008
7:15 p.m
It's hard to believe that we will be celebrating Jackson's 5th birthday on July 29th! He is growing so fast. Even more reason to celebrate is the fact that this
is his second birthday off chemo. Rejoice with us. Our God is truly an awesome God!
June 30th, 2008
10:15 p.m.
Be sure to check out the photo gallery for new pics. Jackson is doing great and is really enjoying the summer. His favorite thing is swimming and he is taking classes again this year. He is also quite the fisherman, bringing in 6 fish during a trip to the lake today! Of course no one remembered to bring a camera . . .
May 16th, 2008
8:47 a.m.
We got wonderful news from Jackson's doctor, his MRI is clear!! Woo Hoo!!! Praise You and thank You God!!! Thank you everyone who lifted Jackson up in prayer and especially a big thank You to our Heavenly Father who continues to bless our son and is providing Jackson with good health. The IV stick went well, but he did have to get stuck twice and ended up with an IV on the inside of his wrist, which happens to be a very sensitive spot. His nurse, Chris, couldn't believe how well Jackson handled it...he didn't flinch, or shed a tear. I know the reason Jackson handled it so well, God gave him peace. We prayed for Jackson to have peace and once again God answered our prayers.
Again, thanks to all of you who prayed Jackson up. Thank You God for the many blessings you have given us, especially the blessing of a healthy boy.
Jackson's buddy, Ryan Carrigan is having his next MRI on May 30th. Will you please join us in prayer for another clear MRI for Ryan.
May 7th, 2008
12:30 a.m.
Time sure does fly. It has been four months since Jackson's last MRI and here we are again and it's time for another one. Next Tuesday, May 13th, Jackson goes for another MRI. Please join us in prayer as we claim another clear MRI and for Jackson to be brave and have peace as he gets an IV. Jack and I have total peace, courtesy of our Heavenly Father, but as humans we do sometimes get nervous. We appreciate every prayer sent to Heaven on behalf of our son, and we can never thank you enough. I've said it many times before and will continue to say it, but your prayers do sustain us and we truly appreciate every one of them. Jackson has to be at the clinic at 7:30 on Tuesday morning for the IV stick and after that he will have his MRI.
March 20th, 2008
12:00 p.m.
We are coming upon the two year anniversary of Jackson's diagnosis. Good Friday will mark this anniversary and so we are reminded once again just how awesome our God is. We count our blessings everyday for Jackson's health and we thank God everyday for all of you who continue to lift our son up in prayer. As I've asked you many times before, please do not cease in praying for Jackson, he really does need each and every prayer, not only a prayer for continued health, but also a prayer of praise.
As we approach Easter, I want you to know this special day is Jackson's favorite holiday (after Christmas of course). For about three years now he has loved this holiday. He talks about Easter all thru the year and he loves to read about it as well. I truly feel God has placed this on his heart.
We are so thankful for such an awesome God who allowed His Son, His only Son to die on the cross for my sins, our sins. Praise God for the resurrection that happened three days later! God is indeed awesome!!!
Jackson's buddy, Ryan Carrigan continues to do well. All of his MRI's have been clear, praise God! His port was removed a few weeks ago and he is doing so well. Please continue to keep Ryan and his family in your prayers. He is still unable to smile and chewing is difficult for him, so please pray specifically for those facial muscles to work the way God intended them to and for that precious smile to return.
I'll update this site next week with some Easter pictures.
Praise You God for the many blessings in our lives and for keeping our son healthy. We give You all the praise, honor, and glory!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May you all have a wonderful Easter holiday and remember the real reason for the holiday.
February 20th, 2008
9:15 p.m.
Every year across the nation, people come together to participate in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life®. It is a time to celebrate those who have survived cancer, remember those we’ve lost, and fight back against a disease that touches too many lives.
To honor Jackson as a cancer survivor, his 'Aunt DoDo' will be joining others in White House TN for the annual Relay for Life event on the night of May 2nd. If you would like to offer your support, please visit her page on the Relay website. We appreciate your continued prayers and support.
January 31st, 2008
5:00 p.m.
Today we lost Jack's father, and Jackson's PawPaw. Our hearts are sad, however, we know he is in heaven right now and he is free from pain and suffering. We were blessed to have been in the room when he left us and went into the arms of God. Please remember the family in your prayers as we go on with life without our sweet, tender-hearted, precious dad, Daddy Jack, PawPaw. We are so thankful that God gave Jack such a good dad, a Christian dad, who set a very good example for his family. He and Jack's mom have been married over 51 years and so we especially ask for you to lift her up in prayer as she goes on with life without him. We know God hears our prayers and He is already beginning to heal our hearts. Jackson is handling this well, probably due to his age, but he knows for sure that his PawPaw now lives with Jesus.
Thank you for your prayers.
January 26th, 2008
12:00 a.m.
We know many of you have read the guest book entry by Jennifer Rodacker, whose precious baby boy has a choroid plexus tumor like Jackson had. We wanted to share Thomas's website with you so that you can join us as we pray for Jenny, Jeff, Tommy and Corrina.
January 25th, 2008
12:15 a.m.
Jackson's MRI was clear and we are on our knees praising our Heavenly Father for this wonderful news. We can't even begin to tell you how excited we are. Not only are we praising our precious Lord for the clear MRI but we are also praising Him for the IV stick going so smoothly. Jackson held out his hand and was still so his nurse, Chris, could insert the IV. She got it on the first try so we are praising God for this wonderful nurse and the talent she possesses. Jackson was a very brave boy for being so still and he didn't even shed a tear, so thank you God for the peace that you gave Jackson Monday morning. Next Monday we have an appointment with his doctor for a checkup.
Thank you to everyone who lifted Jackson up in prayer, we can never thank you enough. Please continue to pray for him and for every future MRI, to be clear.
On a sad note, Jackson's Pawpaw is in the hospital and not doing well. He's in CCU and we really just don't know how much time he has left with us. This is Jack's dad and Jackson's only living grandfather. We know how God can heal, but our prayer is that if he can't be well, that God would take him home so he doesn't have to suffer. He is currently on a ventilator and heavily sedated. We would appreciate your prayers for him and especially Jack's mom. Thank you so much...we love you all who are so faithful to lift us up in prayer on a daily basis.
January 18th, 2008
9:20 a.m.
Jackson's next MRI is this Monday, January 21st at 8:00am. Will you please agree with us in prayer for a clear MRI and peace for Jackson as he gets an IV stick. Thank you for your continued support and prayers.
December 28th, 2007
6:00 p.m.
We all had a wonderful Christmas and wish a blessed New Year for all of you!
By the way, we are rejoicing with Ryan's family over the great news that his MRI is clear.
December 11th, 2007
12:00 p.m.
Ryan's next MRI is December 20th so please be praying for him and thanking God for his good report.
December 9th, 2007
4:00 p.m.
We had a good time in Dallas for the November 18th game. Jackson didn't care too much for the noise, but other than that, it was a great time. For a while we thought we'd have to leave Jack in Dallas. The Cowboys almost lost the game and there was no way he was coming back with us if they lost. Thankfully, Dallas pulled it out and won and Jack had a ride home.
Before we hit Texas, we made a stop in Oklahoma to visit family, Sharon and Breuer. We had a wonderful time while there and Jackson took right to Sharon (Nana). He helped Nana do yard work and gather wood for the bon fire we would be having later that night. In the mornings we would hear Sharon and Jackson talking in the kitchen while she cooked breakfast...it was so sweet hearing him carrying on a conversation with Nana. Sharon has a fish named "Connor", so guess what we had to get when we got home, yep, a fish and Jackson named him "Connor".
Jackson is looking forward to Christmas and Santa coming to visit. He is loving all the Christmas decorations he's seeing everywhere. We are reminded that this time last year, Jackson was going through chemo and had not a hair on his head and now he's done with chemo and has a head full of that gorgeous, red hair. Praise you God for healing our son!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you God for all the blessings we are enjoying!!!!!
Our friend, Ryan Carrigan is now finished with chemo and is doing well. He had a little setback as he got an infection and had to go back to the hospital, but he is now at home and doing well. Praise you God for your healing on Ryan!!! Please keep this sweet family in your prayers.
Our precious Brother Jimmy who was diagnosed in August with lymphoma, is now in the arms of our Heavenly Father. We miss him more than I can ever say, but we know he is now pain free and having a ball. He is not only with our Lord, he has also been reunited with his mother, mother in law, and his other loved ones who have gone on before him. Please pray for his wife, Mrs. Beverly and their sweet family as they go through this holiday season without their loved one.
Jackson's next MRI is January 21st. Will you please agree with us in prayer for another clear MRI. We know Jackson is healed only by the grace of God and we give Him all praise and glory. Thank all of you who continue to remember Jackson in your prayers...please never stop. We covet your prayers and need them on a daily basis. Thank you so much.
Our family wishes you a Merry Christmas. Remember to keep God first and focus not on the presents but the reason for the season...Jesus Christ.
November 11, 2007
9:00 a.m.
Jackson is doing fine after his ear tube procedure. He saw his doctor last week and all of the tests she ran were normal, including his hearing! We are very thankful that the chemo did not do any damage.
We will tell you about our Dallas trip soon.
Jackson's little buddy Ryan will soon be done with his chemo, too!
October 23, 2007
1:00 a.m.
Jackson did very well with his ear tubes. He tolerated the procedure well. He had some fluid in his left ear so he really needed those tubes. The doctor checked his adnoids which were fine. He had a little inflammation in his airway and she took a sample for the lab to evaluate. This may be due to acid reflux and he may need a change of medication. We will let you know more when we get the report back.
October 19, 2007
11:00 p.m.
On Monday, October 22nd, Jackson will be having tubes put in his ears. He doesn't have ear infections but he keeps fluid on his ears which could eventually affect his hearing. Thank God his hearing is fine and the chemo did not affect his auditory nerves, but due to his frequent hearing tests because of the chemo, it was discovered there was fluid that never seemed to go away. This surgery is very minor to us considering all that he has been thru, however we are once again asking for prayer for his safety during the procedure and a speedy recovery. The doctor will also be looking down his throat during the procedure because Jackson seems to keep a cough (this is a problem he's had since he's been an infant). We are praying this is just allergies and nothing any more serious than that.
Thank you again for being so faithful to pray for Jackson.
October 15, 2007
8:00 p.m.
We apologize for this late entry but we just got back from Gulf Shores, AL. We wanted everyone to know that Jackson's MRI was clear and once again we are rejoicing and praising our Heavenly Father. We are continually praising God, however when we hear from the doctor that yet another MRI is clear, our God gets a huge shout out of thanks and praise. Our God is awesome and we are so grateful to Him for Jackson's restored health. One of my favorite verses in the Bible is Mark 11:22-24...
22 So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. 23For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.
We pray this verse over and over and we believe Jackson's health has been restored for the rest of his days on this earth. We have faith and we believe in what we are asking for in our prayers. Glory be to God!!
We are still working on getting Disney pictures online and then we'll get the beach pictures on as well. Thanks again to all of you who are keeping our sweet little boy in your prayers. I ask that you keep praying on. Thank you and God bless!
October 8, 2007
9:45 p.m.
Jackson's MRI went very well. He even laughed when the nurse started his IV and got blood on the pillow case:) Maybe because he is usually the one making the mess. We hope to hear the results tomorrow though we are sure the news will be good! He is scheduled to get tubes in his ears on October 22nd and he sees his oncologist on October 29th.
We have had several calls and emails asking about our Disney photos. Well, we promise you will see them soon. We just got them put on CD today and we need to sort through them to choose which ones to use on the site. Sorry for the delay. Between us and our web designer, Aunt Doy, we just haven't had a chance to get this done.
October 3, 2007
12:15 p.m.
Jackson's MRI is this Monday, October 8th. Will you please pray for Jackson and claim with us a clear MRI. We also ask you to pray for him to have peace as he gets an IV and pray for his nurse so that she will get it the first time. Thanks to all of you who are faithfully praying for Jackson and for us as well. Again, we can't tell you enough how much those prayers mean to us.
The wish trip was so wonderful!! Jackson had a great time at Disney and we would like to thank the company who sponsored him, Kroll Background America. This was a trip that will be talked about for many years to come and we are so thankful to all of those who made it possible. A lot of work and money went to make this trip a reality and we thank God for every person who had a part in it. In a few days we'll post some pictures from the trip. Thank you Kroll for everything!!!!!
September 3, 2007
12:00 p.m.
On Saturday, August 18th Jackson had his wish party at the Rain Forest Cafe. Not only did Dena, his Wish Coordinator come, so did three of the employees from Kroll. Kroll is the company that is sponsoring Jackson on his upcoming trip to Disney. It was wonderful meeting these three woman and words can never express our gratitude for this company for sponsoring Jackson. Anyway, we had a great time... the food was great, the manager of the restaurant was wonderful, and having our family, and our new friends all together was the icing on the cake. See the photos here...
Jackson continues to do very well, Praise You Lord!! He continues to take swimming lessons and is loving that. He also started Mother's Day Out at our church and is really enjoying that. We continue to be amazed at all the blessings God is pouring out to our child and to us. Please continue to pray for our son and that God will keep His healing hand on him. Jackson's next MRI is October 8th so please join us in praying this MRI will be clear.
Jackson's buddy, Ryan Carrigan's MRI was clear and we are praising God for that.
Jackson's adopted grandfather, Bro. Jimmy has been really sick and he is now at home and doing much better. We ask that you will join us in praying for his total recovery. Our family loves this man so much and he means so much to us. Jackson is really excited Bro. Jimmy is at home now because he really didn't like him having to sleep in a "white bed" (AKA: the hospital bed).
Thank you again for your love and support. Most especially we thank you for your prayers...we need them and we are grateful for them.
August 15, 2007
5:45 p.m.
Our little friend Ryan is having an MRI tomorrow so please keep him in your prayers.
Jackson just finished a week of swimming lessons and loved every minute of it! Mommy had a few anxious moments, though. He can float on his back for endless periods of time and even jumped from the diving board :)
July 22, 2007
6:40 p.m.
The doctor's appt went well on Monday. The doctor states he is doing fine, a healthy boy. Blood work looks great, MRI looks great, he looks great!! All we can say is Praise the Lord!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
His next MRI is 10-8-07 at 10:00. Let's start praying now. Actually we've already claimed it!
Jackson will be 4 next Sunday!
July 10, 2007
11:50 p.m.
Jackson's MRI is negative once again, Praise the Lord! After an initial 'fear' fit, he settled down and allowed the nurse to start his IV without any further fuss. No more IVs or MRIs for 3 months! We go for our follow-up visit with Dr. Kuttesch (the oncologist) next week.
We would like to let you know that we still read Jackson's guestbook every day and are very thankful for your entries. Please also visit the websites of Ryan & Asher. We know they appreciate your thoughts and prayers as much as we do.
July 4, 2007
10:45 p.m.
Jackson had a great time today celebrating the 4th! We ended the day watching fireworks. We have also added new photos so be sure and check them out. Watch for Jackson's first haircut since chemo!
We just want to remind everyone that Jackson is having his MRI on Monday and to ask that you continue to pray that the IV access procedure will go well. He is used to having his port and will probably not be too happy about being stuck!
June 28, 2007
11:45 p.m.
Jackson will have his next MRI on Monday, July 9th. Please pray this MRI will be clear, and also especially pray for Jackson to have peace and courage because now that his port a cath is out, he will have to be stuck in his arms, hands, or feet in order for the doctor to have IV access. We are praying this won't be too traumatic for him. We are already praising God because we know this is going to be another clear MRI. Thank you for your continued prayers.
June 22, 2007
11:50 p.m.
Check out Jackson's new hair!
June 11, 2007
11:00 p.m.
We got back from Gatlinburg a few days ago and Jackson had a wonderful time, we all did. He was very excited to see the mountains and loved going through the tunnels. Jackson also rode the go carts, first with mom and then with dad. It was so much fun watching him have such a great time. We went swimming, rode the kiddie train and the kiddie swings. We mostly ate though. Jackson developed a love for eggs and sausage...we didn't think we'd ever fill him up. I think we all brought back an extra ten pounds.
We praise God for this trip as we were reminded that a little over a year ago when we made this trip Jackson had just had his second surgery and was recovering from that. We were also facing his first chemo treatment. We had left Gatlinburg on a Thursday, had his hair cut that evening and began chemo on Friday. Wow, what a difference a year makes. This year, our little angel is healthy & strong and we can't thank God often enough or loud enough. God is awesome, He is good, and He is faithful ALL THE TIME!!! I will praise God for the rest of my life to anyone who will listen and will gladly tell anyone what God has done and is continuing to do for our son and our family. We don't know what the future holds for any of us, only God knows that, but we believe and claim total healing for our child and we hold on to that faith. We ask that you please, please continue to pray for Jackson, please don't ever let up. We covet your prayers and need them daily.
We again want to thank our church family for their love for us. I can't begin to tell you how much they mean to us. They have prayed for us, loved us, supported us, and just been there for us through all of this. We know we are right where God wants us. Our church is Parkway Baptist Church in Madison for those that would like to know. It is an awesome church that is full of love. When I walk in the doors I always have a sense of peace, no matter what is going on in my life. I thank God for every person there.
Jackson started VBS (vacation Bible school) today and he had a great time. It started off a little rough because he thought mom was going to get out of his site, but it wound up being a wonderful day. He couldn't wait to tell his dad about his day.
Jackson has an appointment with the ear, nose, and throat doctor this Friday so please pray this appointment will go well.
I will be adding some pictures to this site very soon so be sure to check back in a few days.
Thanks again for your love and support, we love you all.
May 30, 2007
4:30 p.m.
Today Jackson went for his hearing test and we are thrilled the test came back within the normal limits. Thank you for continuing to keep us in your prayers ...we love you all.
May 22, 2007
6:55 p.m.
Jackson is doing great after having his port removed. He even got to go to Mommy's graduation on Saturday and then out to eat at the Outback. He ate more than anyone else at the table! His next MRI is sometime in July. We will let you know when we have a date.
May 16, 2007
11:30 p.m.
Jackson went for his hearing test on Wednesday but it had to be postponed when it was discovered that his port had dislodged. He will have outpatient surgery on Thursday morning to have the port removed. The original plan was to remove it in July after his next MRI.
April 26, 2007
10:30 a.m.
Jackson's doctor visit last week went well. He was glad to see Ms. Chris and Dr. Kuttesch and he got a very good report. His labs came back within the normal limits and we got the official word that his MRI was in fact, clear. Praise our Heavenly Father! Jackson goes for a hearing test next month, and in July he will have another MRI. Please continue to keep Jackson in your prayers as he continues on this journey.
Jackson's hair is rapidly growing back and we are so thrilled about that. It looks like it is going to come back red or have red in it anyway. The red is very obvious in the sunlight. He weighs 56.6 lbs and is 43 1/2 inches tall.
Jackson's buddy, Ryan is continuing to go through chemo and is doing well. Please pray for him and his precious family. Ryan's counts are down right now so he has to be careful not to be around anyone with any type of cold, etc. Also pray for his appetite to improve. He is really wanting some strawberries right now but with his counts so low, he can't have them just yet. Ryan is very brave but I know he and his family would appreciate your prayers.
We are so thankful for God's amazing grace and love He has shown to us and is continuing to show us.
April 14, 2007
12:30 a.m.
Jackson's MRI was clear!! WOO HOO!!!!!!! Praise You God!! We are so thankful for yet another clear MRI. God is Awesome!! Thank you to everyone who continues to pray for our precious little boy. You'll never know how much it means to our family.
Jackson has an appointment on Monday with his oncologist. This is the first appointment since he has finished his treatments.
April 11, 2007
6:00 p.m.
Please remember Jackson as he has his MRI tomorrow, Thursday, April 12th at 5:00pm. We will let you know what the results show just as soon as we find out, however we already know it's going to be a great report because we have claimed it. Thank you once again for your love and support.
April 4, 2007
9:20 a.m.
Sunday was our first day back to church as a family in many months and it was wonderful. We've missed being in church as a family and we just can't begin to tell you how wonderful it felt to be back. Our church family has been so great to us and really has prayed us through this past year and we thank God for each and every one of them everyday. Their love and support has meant so much to us.
Jackson was excited to be back in Sunday School and couldn't get to his classroom fast enough. I think he was most excited about the marshmallows, goldfish, and animal crackers he gets at snack time. He was also glad to see Ms. Donna and Ms. Wanda who are his teachers.
This Friday, Good Friday will mark the one year anniversary of Jackson's diagnosis. It's been a long, hard year but it has been a good year as well. We've been closer to God than ever before and we've seen His work in Jackson's life as well in ours. We are so thankful and grateful that Jackson has done so well with his surgeries, chemo, and shots and has come through it all bigger and stronger than ever before. Only God can do this! We give all praise and honor to our Lord, the Great Physician. He is the one responsible for Jackson's good health today. We are thankful for his doctors and nurses, but it is God and only God who has restored Jackson's health. The doctors and nurses are the vessels that God has used and we are forever grateful for them as well.
We are thankful for this time of the year as we are reminded that Jesus died for us, for our sins on Good Friday and arose from the dead on Easter Sunday. We see His handiwork all around...the flowers, the green grass, our son's healing. Please continue to pray for Jackson and for his continued good health. We have claimed total healing for Jackson and we are continuing to rely on our faith that Jackson is healed from cancer for the rest of his life, please join us in that same prayer. Also, please pray for Jackson's next MRI which is April 12th.
We love you all and are so very thankful for all of your prayers, support, and entries in his guestbook.
April 1, 2007
9:40 p.m.
Jackson is doing great! Check out his photo gallery to see his first fish!
March 18, 2007
9:00 p.m.
Jackson got 3 units of platelets on Friday but hopefully this is the last transfusion. He was able to stop the shots which build his white blood cells and we are VERY thankful for that. With the chemo over, he just needs time for his body to get back to normal. He is no longer on 'isolation' so will be able to spend more time with his friends now :)
March 11, 2007
6:00 p.m.
I forgot to mention in the last update that Jackson's hearing test went great! This was the best one yet, so we are once again praising God for all He has done and is continuing to do.
Jackson is doing so well. He really hasn't had any bad days this time around and he is just playing with his trains and enjoying this beautiful weather. His home health nurse comes on Monday so we are praying that his counts are coming up so we can stop giving him shots. As always, please continue to lift Jackson up in your prayers as we still have a long journey ahead of us. Thank you.
March 4, 2007
9:40 p.m.
We are very happy to report that Jackson's chemo is over! Praise God!! Jackson did very well this last round with no bouts of nausea or vomiting and we are so thankful for that. Even though his chemo is over, please continue to keep him in your prayers. We still have MRI's, blood work, hearing tests, and doctor visits to get through. This journey won't be officially over for about five more years. Please continue to pray that God will keep His hand of healing on our son and that he will have a lifetime free from cancer. Thank each and every one of you who have prayed us through chemo, you will never know how much it has meant to us.
It was wonderful and sad all at the same time last night when we left the hospital. It was hard saying goodbye to his nurses. They have all been so wonderful to Jackson and to us. Jackson really loved his nurses and care partners and we are forever grateful for their love and for helping us through this. Some of the nurses we want to thank are Carrie, Summer, Holly, Corrie, Lori, Theresa, Jessica, Holly, Heather, Ginger, Leslie Ann, & Leslie. Our care partners Donna, & Ellie (the lovely one who played & talked with Jackson at midnight while mom and dad snoozed away). Anyway, I'm sorry if I left anyone's name out...you are still in our hearts. Point is, you all made a difference in our lives and we thank you for all you've done. Ellie starts nursing school in the fall so good luck to you Ellie, you'll make a great nurse!
Jackson's next MRI is on April 12th so please pray for another clear one.
Thank you again for your love, prayers, & support during these past several months, we'll never forget it. Again, please don't stop praying for Jackson just because his chemo is over, he needs it more than ever now. Thank you and we love you all. We give all Praise, Honor, and Glory to our Lord and Savior...He is Awesome!!!!!!!!!
February 28, 2007
9:20 p.m.
Jackson goes for his hearing test in the morning, then into the hospital for his 11th round of chemo. He is looking forward to seeing his friend Ryanthere!
February 26, 2007
5:20 p.m.
Today we found out that Jackson's MRI is clear. We are praising God yet once again for His many, many blessings, and the many, many answered prayers. Thanks to all of you who are continuing to remember us in your prayers. We love you all and we especially love our God who is our Awesome God!
February 23, 2007
10:00 p.m.
Jackson came thru his MRI just fine. He was very big and brave and enjoyed seeing all his favorite nurses in the MRI department, nurses Donna, and Michelle. He also got to see Ms. Chris in the clinic. After the MRI, Jackson still had some of the "happy juice" in his system so he stumbled around for a while. Jack finally got him to the truck by carrying him since he was stammering around too much to walk by himself. Once in the truck Jackson started singing, and he sang all the way home. However, as he was singing one of his favorite songs "The Wheels on the Bus", it was noticed that the lyrics weren't quite right, instead of singing "the people on the bus go up and down", it was "the fish on the bus go up and down", needless to say Jackson was feeling no pain.
We haven't heard any results yet, but we know our Lord and Savior already knows the results and we have faith this MRI is clear and we are praising Him now for what is yet to come.
February 18, 2007
12:30 p.m.
Jackson went to Kabuto Japanese Steak House last night to eat. He loved the big fire on the grill, especially when it was at someone else's table instead of ours :)
Just a reminder, Jackson has another MRI this Thursday. His next chemo is March 1st. He has a small lump on his head which we are sure is nothing to worry about but please continue to pray for his complete healing.
February 15, 2007
10:00 p.m.
Congratulations to Mommy for passing her nursing boards! We never doubted you would!
February 14, 2007
9:00 p.m.
Today Jackson needed 3 units of platelets. He did really well except his favorite nurse Chris wasn't in the clinic today. He was really brave and we were really proud of him. Once again we want to thank everyone that goes out and donates blood and platelets, it really does help save lives.
Jackson's next MRI is next week, Thursday February 22nd so please be praying that his scan is clear. Thank you everyone.
February 12, 2007
8:30 p.m.
We are happy to report that Pawpaw is recovering well from his bout of pneumonia. He really gave us a scare! Jackson is doing great, also.
February 5, 2007
6:30 p.m.
Jackson tolerated his chemo very well and we were able to come home Saturday night. Mommy is busy studying hard for her NCLEX-RN exam, which is on Wednesday!
February 2, 2007
12:30 p.m.
We are very happy to report remarkable improvement in Jackson's hearing test! Thanks so much for your prayers. He had his first round of chemo last night and has done very well. He has a treatment tonight and tomorrow night and then we will be going home.
January 30, 2007
1:30 p.m.
Jackson will be going to have his hearing tested again this week before his chemo since the results were not very good last time. We ask that you be praying that his hearing is not damaged.
January 25, 2007
10:10 p.m.
Jackson's next scheduled chemo is on Thursday, February 1st. Please pray this round goes well and he doesn't have any nausea or vomiting. Again, thank you for your prayers.
January 22, 2007
2:11 p.m.
Jackson is doing really well, he has a great appetite, and is playing up a storm. He needed some platelets on Friday but other than that he is doing great! We are so thankful for the person who took the time to donate their platelets. There is a shortage of blood at the American Red Cross and especially a shortage of O negative blood, which just happens to be Jackson's type. We encourage everyone to go out and give blood and platelets. Every time we are in the clinic there are numerous kids getting blood and/or platelets and it would be terrible if the blood wasn't available to these children.
We should be going in for round #10 in a couple of weeks, we just don't have an exact date yet, as soon as we know we'll pass that information along.
Thank you for your continued prayers, love, and support for our precious child and for us.
January 14, 2007
7:20 p.m.
Jackson is doing great.
January 8, 2007
11:50 p.m.
Jackson did well with his chemo and he had no nausea or vomiting...Praise the Lord!!! We got home around 10:30 last night and he's had a good day today. He starts his shots again tomorrow, so pray that goes well.
January 1, 2007
8:50 p.m.
Jackson will be having blood drawn to check his platelets on Wednesday and if all is well, he will go into the hospital on Friday to start round 9 of his chemo. Please pray for Mommy, who is in Chattanooga this week preparing for nursing boards and will miss her little angel (and her big angel, too). Also pray for Daddy and Jackson who will be home alone this week :)
December 28th, 2006
11:50 p.m.
Jackson did not have his chemo today because his platelets were too low. His doctor has decided that instead of trying to do chemo every three weeks they are going to schedule it every four weeks since that is about how long his body is taking to recover. He will be admitted next Friday, January 5th for the 9th round. In the meantime, Jackson is enjoying this extra "free" time he has.
Jackson also had his hearing test today and the results weren't very good. However, Jackson does have some (actually a lot) of congestion and he has fluid in one of his ears so we choose to believe that this played a part in the result of the test. Anybody that knows Jackson knows this child can hear anything and everything that he chooses to hear. Jackson just doesn't like going for the hearing test so he only pays attention for just a limited time and after that he totally tunes the lady out (he learned this special skill from his dad). Anyway, please pray that his little body is protected from any serious side effects of the chemo. Thank you for praying for our little angel.
December 26th, 2006
10:00 p.m.
Jackson's MRI is negative again, Praise God! We always know it will be but there is still that few days when we have to wait for the official report. We are getting ready for another trip to the hospital on Thursday for chemo round #9. Jackson has had a great Christmas. We may need to add another room onto the house just to hold all of his new toys! Mommy and Daddy got great gifts also - thank you all so very much!
December 23rd, 2006
5:00 p.m.
Mommy finally got to meet Ryan Carrigan, his mommy, and his grandmommy at the clinic on Thursday. It was Ryan's final day of radiation, praise God!! He has an MRI scheduled January 9th and then shortly after that he will begin his chemo. Please pray for his MRI to be clear and just please continue to remember him in prayers daily. You can read all about Ryan at his website, it is www.updatesonryan.blogspot.com.
December 21st, 2006
5:00 p.m.
Today Jackson had his MRI and he did very well. He also had his blood drawn for his counts. His white blood cells were within the normal range so we can stop his Neupogen shots. Praise God!!! His platelets were very low at 10,000. The normal platelet range starts at 150,000. Jackson got some much needed platelets and we praise God for the person that donated those platelets. Overall it was a good day. The preliminary report on his MRI is stable, meaning there is no change, Praise You once again Lord!!! Please continue to pray that the final report states the same.
Jackson goes in for his 9th round of chemo next Thursday, December 28th. Please pray that it goes well and that he has no nausea or vomiting. I also ask you to please pray that the chemo does what it is intended to do but that his organs and his little body is protected from any serious side effects of it.
Thank you for continuing to keep Jackson in your prayers. We couldn't make it thru this very difficult time without our God and without friends like all of you praying us thru this. Thank you so much.
December 17th, 2006
11:50 a.m.
Jackson is doing well. His MRI will be on the 21st and his next chemo is scheduled for the 28th if his counts are high enough.
More good news - Mommy has officially finished nursing school and her pinning ceremony was Thursday night! She starts work on January 8th as a brand new nurse.
December 12th, 2006
11:00 p.m.
Jackson has not experienced any nausea with this round of chemo. He is on steroids for a few days and that must be doing the trick. He is eating us out of house and home!
December 9th, 2006
6:00 p.m.
Jackson has tolerated his chemo very well! He hasn't been sick at all and has eaten better than ever while in the hospital. He will get to come home tonight after his last chemo treatment for this round. We aren't sure but we think he will only have a total of 11 rounds of chemo and this is #8! He will have an MRI on December 21st.
Jackson and Daddy finally got to meet Ryan and his Mommy in the clinic on Thursday. We pray Ryan does just as well as Jackson with his treatments.
December 6th, 2006
10:30 p.m.
Happy Birthday to Mommy!
Jackson is scheduled to go to the hospital in the morning for his 8th round of chemo. Mommy will be taking her books to study for finals. Her pinning ceremony is December 14th!
December 1st, 2006
12:50 a.m.
Jackson's platelet count is much improved but still not high enough for chemo. It has been postponed until next Thursday (the 7th). There is a blessing in that because if we had stayed on schedule, he would have gotten chemo right before Christmas! Now it will be a week later.
November 28th, 2006
10:30 p.m.
We had to take Jackson to the clinic yesterday because his platelet count was extremely low. He is covered with bruises. They gave him 3 units of platelets. His white count is fine so we were able to stop the Neupogen shots. YIPPEE!!!
November 26th, 2006
7:30 p.m.
Jackson is doing great and is eating normally now and has lots of energy. His 8th chemo is coming up on Thursday. Hopefully there will be only 3 more after that!
November 21st, 2006
10:00 p.m.
We were able to come home from the hospital tonight and the first thing Jackson wanted was chips and salsa! We are thrilled that he is eating again. They didn't find any reason for his nausea and vomiting other than possibly a virus. He did get a blood transfusion today before he came home. They were surprised he hadn't needed one before now as it is common with chemo. Hopefully he will start feeling like himself again soon! We are planning a quiet Thanksgiving at home this year.
November 20th, 2006
11:30 p.m.
Jackson still isn't eating but his tests have shown that he does not have an infection. The only thing he will eat is popcorn. His platelet count was low this morning so he was given platelets. Please pray that he is able to eat soon as he is losing weight.
November 18th, 2006
8:00 p.m.
Jackson has not felt well this week and yesterday developed a fever. We took him to the emergency room and after being there all night and most of today, a room was finally available for him. The doctors aren't sure what is going on but did some cultures to see if he has an infection. They went ahead and put him on antibiotics while we wait for the culture results. We will keep you posted when we have more news.
November 11th, 2006
11:00 a.m.
Jackson is doing great with his treatments. Only one more to go this evening and then we can head home tonight. His MRI (on the 2nd) was normal, praise God. He actually loves being in the hospital and does not want to leave! There is so much for him to play with here. He doesn't have a fish pond at home :)
November 9th, 2006
10:00 a.m.
Jackson goes to the hospital today for his chemo which he missed last week due to his count being too low. We are believing for another good experience since he didn't get sick once the last time!
November 3rd, 2006
11:50 p.m.
Jackson's blood counts came back a little low today so his chemo has been postponed until next Thursday. He feels great and we're sure he doesn't mind the delay :) Thank you for your continuous support.
November 2nd, 2006
11:30 p.m.
Jackson did great with his MRI today. Tomorrow he will have his hearing test and then be admitted to the hospital for his 3 days of chemo. It's wonderful not to have to put him through the lumbar puncture this time.
October 19th, 2006
11:00 p.m.
We forgot to mention with our last update that Jackson's next chemo is scheduled for November 3rd. Also, we have no doubt that you join us in prayer for little Ryan Carrigan, whose Mom signed Jackson's guestbook yesterday. Ryan is 4 years old and had a brain tumor removed last week. Hang in there Ryan! Jackson is living proof of the power of prayer!
October 17th, 2006
9:00 p.m.
We got wonderful news today from Jackson's oncologist! He feels very comfortable with Jackson's progress and doesn't feel he needs to continue to have the lumbar punctures on a regular basis. He was having them done before every third chemo. So that's one less thing he has to go through.
October 15th, 2006
11:00 p.m.
Jackson was able to come home from the hospital last night. He did great and didn't get sick not even once! Praise God!!!!!
October 8th, 2006
3:00 p.m.
Jackson's next round of chemo starts on October 12th. He is doing great and was able to go to the park today after Church. It was wonderful for him to be able to get out of the house for a while!
September 24th, 2006
7:40 a.m.
We are praising God that Jackson is doing so well after his ordeal with the infection! After 5 days of antibiotics, he was able to do his 3 days of chemo beginning Tuesday evening and didn't get sick even once. He came home on Friday and is very active. He is still getting antibiotics through his port but the last dose is on Tuesday and then we can take the needle out and stop worrying about keeping him from accidentally pulling the needle out while he plays. During his last chemo session in August the needle came out several times and it was very traumatic having it re-inserted so many times. This time it never came out once during his entire hospitalization.
September 19th, 2006
11:55 p.m.
Jackson has been in the hospital for antibiotics since Friday and is doing much better. He is starting his chemo tonight. We are hoping to come home after his 3rd treatment on Thursday night. Thank you for your continuous prayers and support!
September 15th, 2006
11:55 p.m.
Things did not go quite as planned today. Jackson's port became infected and swollen and he developed a fever. His chemo had to be postponed. He will be in the hospital to receive antibiotics. They drew blood to see if the infection has spread and the results won't be back for 72 hours. Hopefully it is just a local infection and we will be back on track with his chemo by next weekend.
September 14th, 2006
7:00 a.m.
Jackson's tests went well and the preliminary reports are negative for recurrence. He will go into the hospital tomorrow for 3 days of chemo and hopefully come home Sunday evening after the last treatment.
September 10th, 2006
7:00 p.m.
We just want to remind you that this is Jackson's 'busy' week. He will have an MRI on the 12th, lumbar puncture on the 13th and chemo on the 15th. Please keep us in your prayers.
We also wanted to let you know that Jackson got to see Thomas today and of course had a great time. Click on thumbnail.
September 9th, 2006
9:00 p.m.
We just added some new photos! Jackson is obviously thriving and has tons of energy. He still hates those shots and we hate giving them but we know it has to be done. He is such a brave little boy.
August 31st, 2006
1:00 a.m.
We have more information on our next round of tests and chemo. Jackson will have his MRI of the brain and spine on September 12th, a hearing test and lumbar puncture on the 13th, and then on the 15th he will start his fifth round of chemo.
August 26th, 2006
12:30 a.m.
We apologize for the lack of updates. We did not realize how much time had passed since our last update. Jackson is doing great. He entered the hospital on Thursday for his fourth round of chemo and made it through the first treatment without any nausea. Tonight he had his triple dose of chemo and hopefully will get through tomorrow without nausea. He will get his last dose Saturday evening and will probably get to come home after that.
He is scheduled for another MRI on September 12 and will go into the hospital on the 14th for his fifth round.
Mommy started her last semester of nursing school this week and is looking so forward to finishing in December. She is certainly getting lots of hands on experience! So is Daddy who has given quite a few injections since all of this started. Perhaps he has a new career opportunity!
Just so you know, we read the guestbook every day and find it a great source of encouragement. Thank you!
August 4th, 2006
01:00 a.m.
Jackson was able to come home late Wednesday evening. He had more nausea and vomiting with this round of chemo but now is doing fine.
August 1st, 2006
11:55 p.m.
Jackson's MRI and lumbar puncture are both negative for malignancy once again! The collection of fluid at the base of his spine remains unchanged and is still thought to be related to the surgery. The swelling around his brain from the surgery is resolving. He had one brief episode of vomiting today but has done great otherwise.
July 31st, 2006
3:30 p.m.
Jackson had an MRI on Saturday and today had his lumbar puncture and hearing tests. He will start his third round of chemo tonight. He will have treatments tonight, tomorrow and Wednesday, and if all goes as expected, we will get to bring him home Wednesday night. Thanks to all of you for your continuous support.
Except for the episodes of nausea during his treatments, Jackson is acting like a normal little boy. He still loves playing with his trains and also his new love, Cars (from the movie). You should hear him giggle as he plays. He has also been able to spend a little time with a few of his friends, which makes him very happy. We have to schedule everything around his blood counts and we treasure every moment he is able to be around others.
July 9th, 2006
9:05 p.m.
Well we made through our second chemo session very well. Jackson was sick each morning but it didn't last long. The medications for nausea make him drowsy but once everything is finished, he is back to his old self. We got to come home last night after his last dose of chemo.
Our next round will be a little different than the first two. Jackson will have an MRI on Saturday, July 29th, his birthday. We can take him home after the MRI. Then we return on the 31st for a very long day of tests and then chemo. We start on the 31st with another lumbar puncture. Then we will be going to the Bill Wilkerson Hearing Center for hearing tests (we're not sure why but we think that the chemo may have a side effect which affects hearing). After those tests are completed, we go into the hospital for our 3 days of chemo.
July 4th, 2006
9:45 p.m.
We had a great 4th and hope all of you did as well. We celebrated with a huge barbecue and then went to see the fireworks in White House. Jackson loved the fireworks and didn't mind the noise until the very end. He is doing great and is full of energy. We go back to the hospital on Thursday for our second round of chemo.
Be sure to check out the new photos.
June 22nd, 2006
11:30 p.m.
We are thrilled to report that the spinal fluid from last week's lumbar puncture is negative for cancer. We felt a peace about it but it was still there in the back of our minds. Jackson will still have to have MRIs and lumbar punctures periodically during his chemo.
His next chemo session will start on July 6th. He has recovered so well from round one. His red-headed temper came out today at the doctor's office but since we got home he has been a little angel :) Just say a prayer for the home health nurse who has to come and draw blood twice a week!
June 19th, 2006
9:30 p.m.
We are very excited because Jackson got to come home from the hospital tonight and so far, he has not been sick! He had a rough night last night in spite of medications to help the nausea.
We go back to our surgeon on Wednesday for a checkup. On Thursday we go for a checkup and to have blood drawn at the oncologist's office. The path report on the lumbar puncture fluid should be back by then.
June 18th, 2006
10:30 p.m.
Jackson has made it through his second day of chemo. It makes him sick but he's a trooper and bounces right back. He misses all of his friends! He hopes to be able to play with all of his buddies very soon.
Mommy and Daddy and Jackson appreciate all of your prayers more than we can ever say. You keep us going by lifting us up.
June 17th, 2006
12:30 p.m.
Jackson did very well with his procedures yesterday. He had a lumbar puncture to rule out metastasis and the preliminary report should be back within 24 hours. His oncologist has compared his MRIs and feels the fluid at the base of his spine on the last MRI is nothing to worry about. He had his porta-cath placed yesterday also. He will get his first chemo treatment today. He will be getting chemo over a 3 day period, every 3 weeks. We will be returning weekly to have blood drawn. He will be on anti-nausea medicine in the hospital and at home and a Home Health nurse will come twice a week to give him injections to keep his white blood cells within normal range.
June 6th, 2006
9:45 p.m.
Jackson saw his oncologist yesterday. He had his MRI this past week (instead of waiting until the 16th). The oncologist had not seen the MRI but the report noted an area of fluid at the base of his spine. The oncologist was not certain of the significance of this but did not seem to think it was serious. He said the lumbar puncture (on the 16th) will tell us if the cancer spread. Regardless, we know that God is still in control and are ready to start chemo!
The plan is for Jackson to go to the clinic on Thursdays (every 3 weeks) to have blood drawn, and then he will be admitted to the hospital for 3 or 4 days for his treatments.
He is feeling very well. Our only problem is that he has become quite the night owl! He doesn't ever wind down. He is still going strong at midnight and would probably stay up all night if we would let him :)))
May 28th, 2006
1:15 p.m.
Jackson is doing great. You would never know by watching him play and hearing him giggle that he has been through such a traumatic time!
He returns to the oncologist for another pre-chemo visit on June 5th. He will have a lumbar puncture and MRI on June 16th to make sure the cancer cells haven't spread. His porta-cath will be placed on the same day and he will start chemo either on that day or the next.
May 22nd, 2006
11:50 p.m.
Jackson will have a porta-cath placed (implanted IV) and start chemo in mid-June. He will have chemo approximately every 3 weeks for 9-12 months and will be in the hospital for 3-4 days each time. The oncologist said he could not be in any better position since the surgeon was able to remove all of the tumor. We are so thankful for that.
May 19th, 2006
11:00 p.m.
Jackson is quickly returning to his normal activities! He is eating well, and of course, playing with his beloved trains. He can't be around other kids yet because the steroids decrease his immunity but that is only temporary. He can't wait to see his little friends again at Church and at Grandmother's house.
May 17th, 2006
12:00 p.m.
Jackson is doing really well. He is being spoiled by his Grandmother this week while Mommy is in nurse extern orientation :) We have an appointment with the oncologist Monday (May 22nd) at noon. We will keep you posted. We know you are still praying and we love you all.
May 14th, 2006
9:15 p.m.
We brought Jackson home today around 3 o'clock and he is doing wonderful! Right now he is sitting in the middle of the floor playing with his trains. We don't mind a bit that they are scattered all over the house :) We are so thankful to have him home and tumor-free!
We will be calling in the morning to make our appointment to see the oncologist in 2 weeks. We really don't know what to expect from that visit but God is seeing us through each and every day. If he needs chemo, we will get through that as well. We can't say thank you enough for your prayers and support. We see the results of those prayers every single day.
May 13th, 2006
5:00 p.m.
Jackson is doing great. We are so excited to be able to take him home tomorrow. We appreciate your prayers so much. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we learn and deal with what lies ahead.
We were able to read the guestbook last night for the first time since we brought him for surgery on Thursday and we are so uplifted by your messages! The grandparents don't have computers but are receiving printed copies of your messages and have found a great source of strength in them. Thank you all!
May 12th, 2006
7:00 p.m.
The surgeon got all of Jackson's tumor out this time! Praise God! His MRI is clear. Now it is a matter of healing, and then moving on to the next step. The oncologist came by this afternoon but had not seen the MRI. He wants to review it and from what we understood, he will see Jackson in a couple of weeks.
Jackson is a little irritable but happy to be out of PICU and in his own room. He doesn't appear to be as sensitive to light and sound as he was the first time :)
May 12th, 2006
1:00 p.m.
Jackson had a little bit of a rough night because he couldn't keep fluids down but he is much better now. He has had some water and milk and tolerated that well. He will be moving to a room later this afternoon. His face is swollen but not as much as the last surgery. We are still waiting for the doctors to come and talk with us about the MRI results. We will have another update posted as soon as we know more.
May 11th, 2006
9:55 p.m.
We are thrilled to report that Jackson got out of surgery at 7:30, much earlier than we expected. When the doctor came out to talk with us, he had a smile on his face! He is confident that he got all of the tumor though he did say there is always a chance that there is more that he couldn't find. Once again, Jackson woke up after surgery asking for Mommy :) Mommy will be spending the night with him in the ICU. If he is doing well in the morning, he will get to go to his own room.
Jackson is having an MRI tonight and his surgeon and oncologist will look at it in the morning and then talk with us about our next steps. If there is still tumor left and the surgeon feels it is safe to operate again, he will go back in. He and the oncologist will decide what is best. We assume they will tell us more about the chemo treatments once the results of the MRI are back.
We will give you another update tomorrow after we have spoken with the doctors.
Your phone calls, cards and visits, and guestbook entries have been a great source of strength for us. Thank you again for your continuing outpouring of love, support, and most of all, your prayers. We know that God is still in control and will be with us throughout the days and months ahead.
May 11th, 2006
2:30 p.m.
(By webmaster) Jackson's surgery got started late, at 10 a.m. He is doing well. The family gets an update every hour or so. The next update will be posted late this evening when he gets out of surgery (webmaster is going to the hospital). All of your guestbook entries from today up until this time have been printed so the family can read them while they are waiting. I know they will be encouraged by them.
May 10th, 2006
Jackson's surgery is still scheduled for in the morning at 5:30a.m. He has recovered so well from his first surgery and is very strong. Thank you for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers.
May 4th, 2006
Jackson's next surgery is scheduled for Thursday, May 11th at 5:30a.m. Words cannot express how uplifting all of your entries in the guestbook have been. We appreciate every prayer, card, phone call and guestbook entry and treasure each and every one.
May 3rd, 2006
We went for our post up surgical visit today. The neurosurgeon told us that the pathology confirms that Jackson has cancer. His tumor is a Choroid Plexus Carcinoma, which is very rare. He assured us that this is "not a death sentence". The plan is for Jackson to have surgery again sometime next week. The surgeon feels certain he can remove the remainder of the tumor this time. The surgery will last as long, if not longer than the first surgery 2 weeks ago. He was in surgery for over 14 hours on April 20th.
Once Jackson has recovered from the second surgery for approximately 2 weeks, he will start chemotherapy. We feel a peace about this. We know our baby is being healed and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continuous prayers and support. Jackson has us read every card to him.
We will post another update as soon as we learn when his next surgery will be.
April 28th, 2006
We have been calling the doctor's office every day but they still say the path report isn't back. We may have to wait until our appointment on Wednesday to get the answers to our many questions. In the meantime, Jackson is doing great! He had 10 fish sticks for dinner, among other things. He continues to improve every day.
April 26th, 2006
We are still waiting for the final pathology report on Jackson's tumor but he has had a great day today. His little face is still swollen and his left eye is still swollen but he is walking without any problems now and seems like himself again. He was scheduled to start physical therapy this week but has recovered so well he doesn't need it. He has been eating, playing, laughing, and sleeping well. He even insisted on going to see his Pawpaw last night! Mommy was already in her PJs when Jackson said, "Mommy, get dressed. I wanna go see Pawpaw!". We were more than happy to oblige.
His pediatrician has been calling to check on him frequently and just called tonight to say the path report still isn't back. His follow-up appointment with the surgeon is next Wednesday at 12:20 so please especially remember us in prayer at that time. He will have another surgery either the end of next week or the beginning of the next. Of course we are all praying the tumor is benign and that the second surgery will get it all but if not, he is a tough little boy and chemo will be just a bump in the road for him.
April 23rd, 2006
We got to bring Jackson home from the hospital today. He still has a little trouble getting around and the left side of his face is still swollen but he is happy to be home. And we are blessed to have him home!
April 22nd, 2006
Jackson has had a better day today. He can't walk very well but he is trying his best. We took him to see the train and the fish at the hospital. He really enjoyed that.
April 21st, 2006
Jackson went for another MRI this morning, then was moved out of the PICU and into his own room. He is doing as well as can be expected for a little guy who just had major brain surgery. He is sensitive to light and seems unable to ask for exactly what he wants but he is talking and moving everything.
April 20th, 2006
Jackson was in surgery for over 14 hours. He did require a blood transfusion. While a specimen was sent to pathology, the surgeon told us he feels it is cancer. Jackson did very well during surgery and when they woke him up, he wanted his mommy and a drink. That's a very good sign! He will spend the night in the PICU.
April 18th, 2006
Jackson had his arteriogram today and they were unsuccessful in clotting the blood vessels feeding the tumor. The vessels were too small to thread the catheter into. The radiologist said that this was a good thing because smaller vessels can't bleed as fast. Surgery is still scheduled for Thursday.
April 17th, 2006
We saw the surgeon today and he reviewed the MRI Jackson had done this morning. He agrees with the doctor who diagnosed Jackson with a choroid plexus tumor. Since this is a very vascular tumor, the surgeon wants to do an arteriogram and the radiologist will attempt to clot off the blood vessels going to the tumor. Jackson will then have surgery on Thursday.
April 14th, 2006
We took Jackson to the emergency room after noticing that he was becoming lethargic at the zoo. We had noticed over the past few weeks that his behavior and demeanor were changing and just a few days ago, we took him to the doctor after noticing that his left eye wasn't moving exactly with the right. In the ER, Jackson was seen by four doctors. The fourth doctor ordered a CT scan which showed a large tumor. He called it a choroid plexus tumor and said Jackson would need surgery. He was admitted to the hospital for steroid therapy to decrease the swelling around his brain. The surgeon is out of town until Monday.
7 p.m.
10 years ago tomorrow we joyfully opened our arms and our hearts to our first child, a little redheaded boy named Jackson. We were filled with expectations and dreams of what his life (and ours) would be like, of watching him grow into adulthood with a family of his own. Little did we know how brief our time with him would be. 9 and a half years just wasn’t enough.
Tomorrow will be quite different from years past. Instead of a party with cake and presents and laughing children, we will quietly celebrate his life, allowing our memories to wrap around us and bring us comfort. We will remember his laughter and his sweet, sweet face. We will remember the times we shared as a family, and those one-on-one moments we each had with him. Life goes on but there is void in our hearts that will never be filled.
Through our grief, we realize our love for Jackson is only a glimpse of the love God has for us. We are reminded of this when we look at our precious daughter Sophia. We are reminded of this as we await the birth of our third child, Samuel Walter Ashley, in August. Our grief for Jackson will last a lifetime but God’s love will last for eternity.
January 4th, 2013
5:45 p.m.
We have changed Jackson’s Memorial Service visitation time to 1 – 5 p.m. with the service being at 5 p.m. It will still be held on Thursday, January 10th at Parkway Baptist Church in Goodlettsville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jackson's school, Southhaven Christian School at 112 Academy Drive, Springfield TN 37172.
Many of you have asked about our 4-year old, Sophia. She is handling all of this very well. She knows that Jackson is no longer with us because he is now in Heaven. She even reminds us of that when we are sad! She is dealing with missing him in her own way. She likes to go in his room and sit in his recliner and watch the movies he loved.
We are so thankful for all of the love and support we are receiving from everyone, some of you whom we have never met but will never forget.
Sincerely,
Jack, Dana, & Sophia,
and by special delivery from Heaven,
Jackson
January 3rd, 2013
6:40 p.m.
Jackson's memorial service will be Thursday January 10th with visitation from 3-5. The service begins at 5. It will be held at Parkway Baptist Church in Goodlettsville.
January 2nd, 2013
Our sweet angel has gone to be with Jesus.
December 27th, 2012
11:40 p.m.
We can’t say enough that we are so very appreciative of the love and support shown by our family, friends and community! It means so much to us. Jackson is sleeping most of the time but we read his cards to him every day and they bring a smile to his face as well as ours.
December 20th, 2012
11:30 p.m.
Again we wish to thank everybody for the cards, love and support shown to Jackson and to us. He has gotten SO many cards and he is LOVING it!! He's received a bunch of cards from the students of our community schools. It has been awesome. Also a shout out to Cookeville First Baptist and our church, Parkway Baptist for all of their love and support.
December 18th, 2012
10:00 p.m.
We want to thank everyone for all of the cards and letters you have sent to Jackson and Sophia! We appreciate the time and effort more than you will ever know. Jackson's condition remains the same though he is a little weaker the past few days. We continue to be so very grateful for your prayers and support.
December 5th, 2012
9:50 a.m.
We know it's been a while since we updated you on Jackson. It's just so hard to know what to say. We want you to know that we truly appreciate all of your prayers and support.
This horrible disease is doing its worst on our sweet Jackson. He just isn't himself anymore. He is even more withdrawn and just wants to be left alone in his room. His face is very swollen and he can't open his right eye. He can do very little for himself and is no longer able to get up without being lifted to his wheelchair. He is such a strong little boy and doesn't complain much but we know he is in pain and we are trying to adjust his medications to keep him comfortable.
Sophia remains at his beck and call, doing everything she can to show her big brother how much she loves him.
Many of you have asked what we need. Jackson still loves getting cards in the mail. If you would like to send a card and don't have our address just let us know.
There really isn't anything else anyone can do but continue to pray for Jackson and for us during this very difficult time. Thank you for keeping us lifted up.
Sincerely,
Jack, Dana, Jackson & Sophia
October 5th, 2012
4:15 p.m.
This is the most difficult update we have ever had to share with you. We have known that Jackson’s tumors were growing because of his symptoms and we were as prepared as we could be for news we did not want to hear but no one is ever truly ready.
Jackson’s MRI shows that his tumors are growing rapidly and new tumors have formed. The new chemo we had talked about is no longer an option. So we are now struggling with whether we continue the current chemo or not. We ask for prayer to do what’s best for ourselves as well as Jackson. He is very tired and doesn’t feel like doing anything but sit in his recliner in his room. The highlight of his days is receiving the cards, letters and gifts you have sent. We thank each and every one of you from the bottom of our hearts for thinking of him. Precious little Sophia has appointed herself her brother’s keeper and is at his beck and call, running to get anything at all he needs.
Jackson has been talking about going to Heaven ever since his cancer came back last year. His understanding of his situation and his courage amaze and strengthen us. We are so comforted to know that Jesus has him wrapped in His arms. Our faith is strong though our hearts are breaking. We still believe in miracles but we know that God has a plan that we may not understand. As we said on our website over 6 years ago when we began this journey, the one thing that we learned from our infertility and the emotions that went along with it is that God is in control, HE has a time table and it isn’t about what we want and when we want it, it is all in HIS time, and HIS timing is perfect. We are relying on that knowledge today, we know that God is in control of this situation and God will do things in HIS perfect timing.
In His Perfect Love,
Jack, Dana, Jackson and Sophia
September 28th, 2012
10:00 p.m.
I wanted to update everyone on Jackson. He has had increasing headaches. one pupil dilated the other not, and balance problems... more than his usual. I took him to the doctor on Tuesday and they did a CT scan which revealed swelling in the brain. This indicates tumor growth. It may be only a small amount of growth or could be a lot. He is at home on a high dose of steroids which is helping his symptoms a lot. His next MRI is next Thursday 10/4. We will know much more then. Please pray for my Jackson and for me and his dad to make wise decisions. Thank you.
September 21st, 2012
5:30 p.m.
Jackson wants to thank everyone for the cards and prayers. He has been super excited these past few days because he has received cards everyday! This has been the highlight of his days.
His next MRI is October 4th. Thanks for continuing to lift him and our family up in prayer.
August 1st, 2012
6:10 p.m.
What an amazing day! Thank you just isn’t enough for Jack and Faye Odenand all the folks at CSX Railroad. Jack and Faye heard of Jackson’s love of trains and arranged for him to visit the train yard! Well, ‘visit’ is an understatement. He met most of the folks working there, got to watch some of the repairs, had a guided tour of the whole yard, was showered with every train-related gift imaginable, AND got to actually DRIVE A TRAIN! Well it’s only fitting since they presented him with an officially signed certificate proclaiming him an Honorary Engineer. We ended the day with a delicious late lunch at The Depot in Springfield (thanks Jack!). We had the best table in the house, right by the huge picture window where Jackson could watch the trains go by (thanks Faye for reserving it for us). I’m sure I am leaving someone out but these are just some of the folks who went out of their way to make this a day a dream come true for a Little Engineer! Doug, Craig, Ryan, Kevin, Joe, Stephanie, Mike, Bill, West and Dave. Thank You!!!
July 10th, 2012
9:20 p.m.
Jackson’s spine tumor hasn’t changed but the brain tumors have doubled in size. The plan is to stop the current chemo and start on a new drug next Wednesday with another MRI in 6 weeks. He is having more back pain and has been getting tired more easily the past few weeks.
Jackson gave his heart to Jesus a couple of years ago but hasn’t been baptized. He decided on his own last week that he is ready and will be baptized this Sunday morning. It is such a comfort that Jackson is so close to Jesus and that he shares his thoughts about Heaven with us. He says he can’t wait to get to Heaven so his back pain will be gone. While we are still praying for a cure and we know that with God all things are possible, we know that God had a plan long before Jackson was born and in His time, it will be revealed to us.
When Jackson was diagnosed in 2006, when he was not yet 3 years old, we shared our story on his website. This is an excerpt and we still hold to it today:
“The one thing that we learned from our infertility and the emotions that went along with it is that God is in control, HE has a time table and it isn’t about what we want and when we want it, it is all in HIS time, and HIS timing is perfect. We are relying on that knowledge today, we know that God is in control of this situation and God will do things in HIS perfect timing.”
“Jackson loves Jesus and knows that Jesus loves him. We all know that Jesus loves him very much and He is watching over Jackson, walking beside Jackson, and even carrying him at times, as He is all of us. Please continue to pray for our little angel.”
June 21st, 2012
6:30 p.m
Jackson was able to have one chemo drug yesterday but not the second one which is affecting his kidney function. The doctors are discussing a possible medication to help his kidneys and allow him to take the second chemo. His next chemo is July 3rd so hopefully they will have the kidney thing under control by then.
June 21st, 2012
6:30 p.m.
Jackson was able to have one chemo drug yesterday but not the second one which is affecting his kidney function. The doctors are discussing a possible medication to help his kidneys and allow him to take the second chemo. His next chemo is July 3rd so hopefully they will have the kidney thing under control by then.
June 19th, 2012
8:20 p.m.
Jackson has been having headaches and not eating well. His lab work shows he may be having kidney problems which can be a side effect of the chemo. Tomorrow (Wednesday) is chemo day but he will see a kidney doctor and his oncologist tomorrow before they can proceed with more chemo. Please remember him in your prayers. As far as we know, his MRI will still be on July 10th.
May 28th, 2012
5 p.m.
Jackson is doing well and his next MRI is July 10th. He is finished with the 2nd grade and looking forward to the 3rd. He had a great year at school and he loved his teacher. He is already enjoying summer break in his pool! He is very excited about going to the beach this summer as well.
March 27th, 2012
8:15 p.m.
Jackson’s tumors have grown a little. Current chemo is slowing them down but not stopping the growth. Chemo still tomorrow as planned and will probably need to be changed around once his regular doctor is back in town. Pray for guidance and wisdom.
March 25th, 2012
12:15 a.m.
Jackson's MRI is scheduled for Monday. Thanks so much for lifting him up in prayer!
He is doing very well since his eye surgery. We had an awesome trip to New York during spring break! Here he is at the 9/11 Memorial.
He got his report card today and he got all A's and B's. We are so proud of him, especially since he has to miss so much school.
February 12th, 2012
Jackson's visit with the eye surgeon was very promising! He is scheduled for surgery on his eye muscles on February 22nd. He will only miss a few days of school. His next MRI is still March 26th. We can't say it enough, thanks so much for your continuous support and prayers!
January 28th, 2012
Jackson is doing great! He got to be Principal for a day at school because he raised money for the missionaries (this was a second contest). He won the first contest last fall and now he won this one along with two other boys.
His next MRI is March 26th. He has an appointment with an eye doctor on February 6th regarding surgery. The muscles in one eye are not working together, therefore each eye sees a different object.
December 28th, 2011
6:00 p.m.
Results from the MRI: the spinal lesions have gotten a little bigger, not by much though. The brain stem lesion is significantly smaller but what was on the right side has gotten just a little bit bigger. Doc thinks this increase is from where he didn't have chemo for a few weeks due to having radiation. So, although not a terrible MRI, I was hoping for better news. Bottom line is that Jackson is happy, no symptoms and that makes me happy. The decision we have to make now is do we leave chemo as is or do we add another agent to the regimen? Please pray for us as we decide on the best thing to do for our Jackson.
December 25th, 2011
1:00 p.m.
Merry Christmas everyone! We are so blessed to have each of you in our lives and we are thankful that Jackson is doing well with his chemo. Please remember him in your prayers as he is having his MRI on Tuesday.
November 16th, 2011
6:00 p.m.
We haven't updated you in a few weeks but that's good! Jackson is doing great. He is tolerating his chemo every 2 weeks without any side effects and his blood work is normal. He is going to school and church and having a great time with his friends. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued prayers, support and faith.
October 30th, 2011
4:40 p.m.
Jackson did fine with chemo on Wednesday, handled it great. Praise the Lord! He is going to school and for the most part he is feeling great. As long as his numbers (lab work) stay okay, he will have chemo every other Wednesday. His next treatment will be on November 9th.
October 25th, 2011
10:25 p.m.
Jackson starts back on chemo tomorrow. He will be getting the same one as before but they are adding a second drug. Pray that he will tolerate it well and for great results!
October 19th, 2011
11:45 p.m.
We just got the results from the spinal MRI today...it is STABLE!!!! This is a HUGE Praise!! With Jackson's complaints, we've been really worried. I am on my knees in praise and thankfulness. Chemo will restart next Wednesday. It will be the same IV chemo as before with a second one added. It will increase the infusion time by about an hour. Thank you for your continued love, prayer, and support of me and my family, especially my Jackson. (from Dana)
October 16th, 2011
3:15 p.m.
Jackson did awesome today with his MRI! Thanks so much for your prayers! One more radiation treatment tomorrow.
October 14th, 2011
11:00 p.m.
He did it again!!! He did an amazing job!! Only one more treatment to go!!! He is still scheduled for his spinal MRI Sunday at 10:45 so please remember him in prayer as he has to be perfectly still for 2 hours.
October 13th, 2011
10:00 p.m.
Once again Jackson had no problems with the radiation treatment. His breathing still doesn't seem quite right to us but he says he is okay. He also hasn't complained about his legs hurting for a few days. We are very thankful that pain is gone. On Sunday morning at 10:45, he will have an MRI of his spine. He will have to lie still for 2 hours in a confined space but we know he can do it with everyone praying for him. We can't thank you enough for your prayers.
October 12th, 2011
6:50 p.m.
Jackson did great again today! We are so proud of him. Only 3 more treatments!
October 11th, 2011
4:25 p.m.
Another down with 4 more to go and yes, he rocked it again! Thank you all for your continued prayers.
October 10th, 2011
9:25 p.m.
We are very thankful to report that the CT scan Jackson had today is stable!!! Praise God !!! We are also very thankful for Dr. Esbenshade and his care and concern for Jackson as well as for us. He just called us at home with the results instead of waiting until tomorrow.
October 10th, 2011
3:58 p.m.
Jackson once again did great during his treatment, THANK YOU JESUS!
We have noticed the past few days Jackson's breathing has become slightly labored and he is having pain in both of his legs. These are new issues and the docs do not take any chances with Jackson's health. He has gained weight due to medication so that could be a reason for the breathing issues or more likely it is from inflammation caused by radiation (this will correct itself). The pain in his legs could also be caused by the radiation as well. With that said, we are currently waiting at Vandy for a CT scan and he will have a spinal MRI sometime this week.
Please keep him in your prayers, we could really use some encouraging news. On a side note, Jackson had to get an IV for the CT scan. He was afraid, but his favorite nurse, Ms. Chris was in the clinic today so she did it and got it on the 2nd try. He's a hard stick so that in itself was a miracle.
October 7th, 2011
4:00 p.m.
Jackson did his treatment in record time today...30 minutes!! He rocked it again!!! Thank you for your continued prayers for my Jackson. We are once again praising our Lord for holding Jackson in His arms, comforting him, and for providing safety from the radiation.
Time change for next week, he will have treatments at 2:30.
October 6th, 2011
3:00 p.m.
Thanks to our Prayer Warriors!
Jackson did AWESOME today! This is a 30 minutes procedure which took 2 1/2 hours on Monday when he got scared, an hour yesterday because they had to stop for a few minutes when he got too hot, then today he went through it with no tears and no interruptions at all. The radiation oncologist and Child Life specialist were so excited about how well he did. We are so proud of our brave little boy. Thanks so much for the prayers which are getting him through this every day.
We thank God for each and every one of you!
October 5th, 2011
3:20 p.m.
Jackson had a much better time with his treatment today! As you know we believe in the power of prayer and we are so grateful that you continue to pray for Jackson. We have asked everyone to pray for him at 11 each morning, Monday through Friday through the 17th until his treatments are over. Your prayers are getting him (and us) through this very difficult time. If you are on Facebook, we have created an event for this special prayer time.
October 4th, 2011
8:10 p.m.
Jackson had a difficult time with his treatment today because he got scared, which is so unusual for Jackson. He is such a brave little boy and usually takes it all in stride. This procedure is like doing surgery with radiation rays instead of a knife so it is imperative that he not move at all.
For the treatment, he has to wear a very tight mask that is clamped down over his entire face with a mouth piece, like a bite block. He felt like he couldn't breathe and they had to keep stopping. The treatment took 2 hours instead of 30 minutes. He has 9 more treatments to go, every day at 11 a.m. except for the weekend. They are going to increase the sedative dose tomorrow but they can't put him to sleep entirely.
He has also been in a lot of pain with his ear and neck, requiring pain medication.
Please pray for God to fill his mind with peace and his lungs with air so that he won't panic and can get these treatments done.
October 3rd, 2011
7:50 p.m.
Jackson's radiation treatment has been changed to 2:30 tomorrow afternoon. He is doing very well and the doctor said that he should be able to go back to school. Please join us in praying that the radiation will hit only the cancer cells and do no damage to the healthy vital cells in his brainstem.
September 28th, 2011
4:50 p.m.
Update from Aunt DoDo (Carolyn)
Prayer Warriors, please pray for Jackson and constantly keep him in your thoughts and heart. Jack and Dana just found out today that he has a tumor on his brain stem. With or without treatment, it’s all in God’s hands as to how much more time we will have this precious little boy with us. Jack and Dana have decided to do radiation therapy, tentatively on Tuesday, praying for good results but knowing that if something happens, it’s time for Jackson to see the Heaven and his Jesus he has been talking about for months.
We don’t know if it’s Jackson’s time or not as we have seen God’s miracles performed in his life time and time again. There is always hope. Dr. Esbenshade and Dr. Tenenholz are working very hard to make sure the radiation treatment calculations are exact and will only hit the tumor. Please pray that God will have His hands on those of Dr. Tenenholz as he gives the treatment. There is a possibility that the radiation will knock out his respiratory system and he would have to be on a ventilator to breathe.
We can find comfort no matter what happens in knowing that God has been holding Jackson very close all along and Jackson has been talking about Heaven since his cancer came back in April. He asked his mom back then if there were toys and food in Heaven. The other day he talked excitedly about how he couldn’t wait to see those streets of gold but he wants to take his Pokemon cards with him. God has been preparing this young soul for whenever He calls him home and in doing so I believe he has used Jackson to prepare those of us who love him so much by sharing with us what He has shared with Jackson.
God has also been preparing Jack and Dana since the very first moment they learned he had cancer. Their faith has not faltered and they have been a comfort to everyone around them, probably more so than we have been to them. I would encourage you to go back to Jackson’s Home Page and read their story. But here are a couple of things written by Jack and Dana when Jackson was first diagnosed in April of 2006 that have stuck with me through it all and it is just as true today as it was back then.
“The one thing that we learned from our infertility and the emotions that went along with it is that God is in control, HE has a time table and it isn’t about what we want and when we want it, it is all in HIS time, and HIS timing is perfect. We are relying on that knowledge today, we know that God is in control of this situation and God will do things in HIS perfect timing.”
“Jackson loves Jesus and knows that Jesus loves him. We all know that Jesus loves him very much and He is watching over Jackson, walking beside Jackson, and even carrying him at times, as He is all of us. Please continue to pray for our little angel.”
September 20th, 2011
6:50 p.m.
Jackson's MRI showed growth in one of his tumors. He hasn't had radiation to this particular tumor so the doctors are discussing that as a possible treatment. There are some different chemo drugs they may decide to use instead of the one he has been on as well. Please pray for the doctors to come up with the right combination of treatments to beat this tumor! In spite of everything, he is still loving school and his teacher Mrs. Davis and came home with almost straight A's on his report card! We are so proud of him.
September 16th, 2011
12:40 a.m.
Jackson has been complaining of some pain in his face so he will be having an MRI this Saturday morning. Please keep him lifted up for a good report.
August 30th, 2011
1:40 p.m.
Jackson is having another great week at school. He has loved being back and seeing his friends everyday. His teacher, Mrs. Davis has been awesome, of course we think everyone at his school is awesome. Mrs. Davis has a special chair for Jackson to sit in. It’s an adult chair that is cushioned so that his back won’t hurt as much. It’s been so much better for his back compared to the small, plastic chairs. Anyway, we love Mrs. Davis already and we are very thankful for her.
Exciting news at school this week...Jackson is student of the week! He is very excited and we are excited for him.
Our friends, family, and our church family has been so awesome to us and we just want to say “Thank You” to everyone again. Your prayers, love, and support has meant so much to us and we can never express to you just how much it means to us. We know Jackson is still with us and getting healthier everyday due to all the prayers being said on his behalf. We especially want to say a big “Thank You” to our new friends in Cookeville, TN. Jackson’s friend, Ryan Carrigan has grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. Joyner) who live in Cookeville and they have helped spread the word about Jackson in their church. Jackson gets cards almost everyday from someone that attends the First Baptist Church and we simply can not tell you how much that means to us and especially to Jackson. We have an awesome church in Parkway Baptist but I tell you, Cookeville Baptist it right up there with ours. So, we just want our Cookeville friends to know how much appreciate them and love them for loving and praying for our son. Thank you so very much for every prayer, card, and gift. You (and our church too) has made such a difference in our lives and in Jackson’s. May God bless each and every one of you.
August 26th, 2011
12:15 a.m.
We are praising God for wonderful news!
Jackson's MRIs show that one brain tumor has shrunken down to dead tissue. The other hasn't changed any but at least it hasn't grown. The tumor on his spine has shrunken down to a tiny amount of tissue. There are 2 other 'spots' that they have been keeping an eye on which have grown just a little. He will have frequent MRIs to watch those.
He will still continue chemo for a year. Jackson's kind of tumor, choroid plexus carcinoma, is very uncommon and there really isn't a proven treatment. The chemo he is on has been successful in treating other cancers but has never been tried on his. Maybe this will be a breakthrough for other kids with this form of cancer!
He had a few rough days last week and actually spent a night in the hospital after complaining of severe back pain. We have no idea what caused that pain but he is doing very well now.
August 16th, 2011
6:00 p.m.
Jackson's first day of school was today and he is so excited to see all of his friends again. And we are so thankful he is able to go to school! He is already collecting money "for missionaries". The child to collect the most money wins a prize and he aims to win :)
Now Sophia is another story. She is not at all happy that big brother isn't home all day to play with her.
He is doing very well with his chemo. His next MRI is this Monday, the 22nd. Thank you as always for keeping him lifted up.
July 21st, 2011
12:30 p.m.
Jackson is tolerating his chemo very well! Thanks for all of your prayers. Another reason to rejoice is his lab work is all normal in spite of the chemo. His 8th birthday is this Friday. He is excited about that of course and is also looking forward to going back to school in a couple of weeks. He missed a few months at the end of the last session but has caught up and is ready for 2nd grade :)
July 13th, 2011
11:30 p.m.
It's been a while since our last update but that's a good thing because it means our lives are fairly normal! Jackson is doing really good with his chemo. Please pray each transfusion goes well. It's so hard to believe he will be 8 years old in a few weeks! Praise God!
June 25th, 2011
10:30 a.m.
Jackson is doing very well. He has a problem with one eye being "lazy" and is wearing a patch for a few hours a day. His MRI last Friday showed that one brain tumor hasn't changed and one is smaller. The lesion on his spine is smaller also. Praise God for smaller!!! His oncologist has consulted with doctors at Duke and they have come up with a treatment plan that involves more chemotherapy pills and also he will start on intravenous chemo next Wednesday. He will get that chemo every other week for a year. Duke has had success using this chemo for highly aggressive tumors like Jackson's. Supposedly there are fewer side effects from this chemo than others he has had in the past. Thanks so much for your continued prayers!
June 15th, 2011
9:15 a.m.
We are back home after a much needed and much enjoyed week in Gulf Shores. It was good to get away and we are so blessed that Jackson is doing so well. His next MRI is this Friday. Please lift him up for good results.
June 6th, 2011
9:10 a.m.
Jackson finished chemo and radiation and had his last IV antibiotic last night! Praise the Lord! He is running around acting like a little boy should, playing and laughing. He attended his awards ceremony at school last week and received 5 awards, including the Principle's Honor Roll :) We are so proud of him and so thankful for all of the prayers and God's grace that have brought him this far.
He will have an MRI next week to determine the status of the tumors. We pray they are continuing to shrink.
May 31st, 2011
12:10 a.m.
Jackson is doing really well! He was able to go to school for field day for a short time and loved seeing all of his friends again. He finishes both chemo and radiation on Thursday and his last dose of IV antibiotics is next Monday. We are so blessed! To God be the Glory. Please keep praying. He will have scans in a couple of weeks to see how the tumors have responded to chemo and radiation.
May 24th, 2011
11:40 p.m.
Lots of praise today! We went to the doctor yesterday because no one could access Jackson's port over the weekend. He could have been looking at another surgery to replace it. Much to everyone's surprise, it is not only working now, but even better than before! Then today, Jackson was able to go to school for half a day. This is his first time back since the second week of April! He had an awesome time with all of his schoolmates! Your prayers do make a difference!
May 22nd, 2011
11:40 p.m.
Jackson had a good week but last night his port stopped working. We spent most of the night in the emergency room. They had to start an IV in his hand for his antibiotics and we go to the doctor tomorrow to see about getting another port placed. That means more surgery but he really needs that port for the antibiotics. His veins are really difficult to find and he would need a new IV every few days.
May 18th, 2011
7:30 p.m.
Giving God the glory for the change in Jackson! He is feeling very well and hasn't needed his walker in a week! He is able to function independently and can even go up the stairs by himself. He is up running around playing with Sophia just like he used to. If only you could hear his laughter!
He is still on chemo but is able to take a pill at home. He is also getting antibiotics for 3 weeks through his portacath. He still can't control the movement of his left eye and he can't move his right eye to the right but he seems to have adjusted to it and can play with his Nintendo and watch TV.
He had another CT scan Monday. The tumor on one side of his brain has not grown any and the one on the other side is "mush". The doctor says that is a GOOD thing! Praise God for mush. The tumor on his spine has more than doubled but isn't causing any symptoms. He starts radiation on that area this week. The doctor says the combination of chemo and radiation will make the treatment more effective.
We are very thankful for the medical staff at Vanderbilt and the treatments they provide and to the doctors in Boston who recommended this particular chemo drug but we are most thankful for your prayers. God's people are truly awesome.
May 14th, 2011
6:00 p.m.
Jackson is back home at last. The CT of his neck is normal but the mass on his spine is larger. He sees the radiation oncologist on Tuesday and will have radiation to his spine on Wednesday or Thursday.
May 10th, 2011
10:20 p.m.
Jackson is back in the hospital tonight. He has been having neck pain and a low-grade fever. They have decided to put him back on stronger antibiotics through his IV. At first they were going to take his shunt out but it looked OK on the CT scan so thankfully they are going to leave it alone, at least for now. He would have needed an external shunt for several days until the infection cleared up and then he would need surgery again to put the internal shunt back in. We are praying the infection responds to the antibiotics and he doesn't have to have the shunt removed. He will be in the hospital for several days.
May 8th, 2011
11:45 p.m.
We apologize for the lack of updates. This has been an exhausting week for all of us. Jackson didn't get to come home until last night. We are so glad to sleep in our own beds.
Jackson had an MRI on Friday which showed the tumor on his spine is larger but the brain tumor is slightly smaller! Praise God for that. He started chemo a couple of days ago but the dose had to be decreased because they are talking about doing more radiation, this time to the tumor on his spine.
A special prayer request - he has trouble focusing his eyes due to pressure on his optic nerves. This is very frustrating for him. Please pray that his vision will improve. He also misses going to school and church! So far the chemo has caused minimal nausea but please pray about that as well.
Thanks so much for the prayers and encouragement and for signing Jackson's guest book. We read every entry and truly appreciate each and every one.
May 3rd, 2011
7:50 p.m.
Jackson will be in the hospital until Thursday for antibiotics through his IV. Then he will switch to pills and be able to come home. We are also hoping to start chemo on Thursday!
May 2nd, 2011
10:20 p.m.
On a good note, Jackson's speech has returned to normal and he is talking up a storm! His smile is almost back to normal and he is laughing again. Praise God for answered prayer! The CT scan of his abdomen did not show an abscess which is good news also. He will probably be able to go home tomorrow on antibiotics.
May 2nd, 2011
8:10 p.m.
Jackson has had a setback and is in the hospital again. This time it's an infection in one of the incisions from the shunt placement 2 weeks ago. He is on strong antibiotics so hopefully the infection will clear up quickly. We will know more tomorrow. Pray ...
May 1st, 2011
2:25 p.m.
Jackson's really tired so hasn't been able to do a lot but he tries. He wanted to go to church this morning but didn't feel like staying very long. He goes to the doctor on Wednesday and starts his chemo (pill form) then. He will also have another MRI of his spine because his back has been hurting. Please continue to pray for our precious little boy.
April 25th, 2011
8:25 p.m.
Jackson's CT is stable!!!! Praise You God!!! The doctors were very excited. We don't have much info at this time but a MRI will be done this week on his head/spine and a treatment plan is being discussed. Looks like chemo in pill form with additional radiation. That's all we know at this point and nothing is set in stone yet. Please continue praying. We also got to come home today!
April 24th, 2011
10:00 p.m.
Jackson hasn't slept well the past 2 nights so he is really tired but all in all, it's been a good day. He is eating a lot now! Looking forward to going home tomorrow after a CT scan. Please pray that this scan shows the radiation is working and the tumor is shrinking.
April 23rd, 2011
8:35 p.m.
Jackson has done well today, sitting on the couch in his hospital room most of the day. He enjoyed some Mama time watching Milo and Otis. He had several friends come by and really enjoyed their visits. His room is filling up with toys and other gifts :) He is really excited that the Easter Bunny is coming to his hospital room AND his house! He hopes to come home Monday after his radiation treatment. The doctors will be meeting again on Monday also to discuss his case again. They have consulted with some doctors in Boston who suggested some new treatment options.
April 21st, 2011
11:45 p.m.
Jackson has had another good day. No radiation today - it's Monday, Wednesday and Friday. He has had lots and lots of visitors including his friends Ryan and Ethan. That is such a blessing because he misses his friends so much. When his buddies are here, he is a different kid. His teacher and her husband brought a huge bouquet of balloons from his classmates as well as tons of cards and all kinds of gifts. We have also received TONS of gift cards and money from his school friends and their families. His school (South Haven Christian School) has been such a blessing to us. We are so thankful for them. His principle and his family also came to visit. His classmates made a video with all of them saying hi. Jackson made one back for them. It was precious. We are so thankful for all of our friends and family! We are so blessed even when we are down in the valley.
April 20th, 2011
8:45 p.m.
We are praising God for this great day!
Jackson has had a better day. Radiation went well. He has talked more today, eaten much better and PT sat him up. He even got to go downstairs because the zoo came to the hospital. We couldn't stay long but it was a nice change for him and he enjoyed it. We had several visitors today which was awesome and he has been awake all day.
He will have radiation treatments tomorrow, Friday, Monday and Tuesday.
The posts in the guestbook are so encouraging for us. Thank you!
A sweet boy
taking a nap
after his bath
April 18th, 2011
6:10 p.m.
Jackson did well in surgery with the shunt placement. He is awake enough to say he is thirsty and is eating a few ice chips. He can have his head a little lower now so he doesn't have to sit up all the time. Hopefully that will help him to rest better tonight. The plans are still for radiation on Wednesday.
April 18th, 2011
11:30 p.m.
Please continue to lift Jackson up in prayer today. He is going into surgery at 1 to have a shunt placed to drain some of the fluid that has built up around his brain. Once the fluid has decreased he will start radiation treatments to the largest tumor, most likely on Wednesday.
April 17th, 2011
9:30 p.m.
Jackson was admitted to ICU at Vanderbilt this morning but is doing better tonight. His tumor had caused some bleeding but it has stopped praise God. He is now opening his eyes and answering questions though he is very tired. He is very restless, can't stop moving trying to get comfortable. He has to keep the head of the bed up and he wants to lie flat. Please pray for a restful night's sleep for him. The Vanderbilt doctors are getting together with doctors from St. Jude's tomorrow morning to discuss treatment options. Once again, thank you for all the prayers. We have heard that prayers are being lifted up by people and churches who don't even know Jackson. Thank you.
April 15th, 2011
11:20 a.m.
We don't have all of the test results yet but the second MRI showed a spot on Jackson's spine. We meet with the radiation oncologist this afternoon and all of the doctors are meeting Monday to discuss options. Jackson is on pain medication every 6 hours and his headaches are under control but he is drowsy from the medication and hasn't been able to go to school. As in the song you hear playing as you read this page, we don't know the Father's plan but we do know He will always be with us and we know His angels are watching over our Jackson. Thank you for all of the prayers lifting him up, as well as us.
April 11th, 2011
11:20 p.m.
Our hearts are heavy tonight but our God is very near to provide whatever we need. Jackson's tumor has come back. The surgeon feels at this time that it is inoperable. It has developed since his last MRI 2 months ago and is almost as large as his first tumor was.
We don't know if chemo or radiation are options. He will have more tests tomorrow and we meet with the doctors at 1:30 on Wednesday to see what the plan is. Pray for strength and courage for us on this journey and physical comfort for Jackson as he has been having very painful headaches.
April 6th, 2011
8:10 p.m.
Jackson is having his next MRI this Saturday at 1. We know we don't even have to ask for your prayers and we are so grateful to have you all in our lives.
February 7th, 2011
11:30 p.m.
Jackson asks for prayers as he is having his MRI tomorrow afternoon.
January 14th, 2011
12:50 a.m.
We had a wonderful Christmas with family and friends, followed by a quick trip to Pigeon Forge. Jackson and Sophia are growing up so fast. Hope you enjoy the photo album below of the past year. Time flies. Jackson's 3 months MRI is February 8th so please keep him lifted up.
December 30th, 2010
7:40 p.m.
Click here to view this photo book larger
November 12th, 2010
11:58 a.m.
A big heartfelt "Thank You" to everyone who prayed for my Jackson. His MRI is clear!! We are praising God for this wonderful news!
November 7th, 2010
9:55 a.m.
Jackson did very well with having his ear tubes placed this week and his hearing is much improved! Please lift him up as he is having his 3-month MRI this Thursday.
August 28th, 2010
9:35 p.m.
Swim Across America Nashville raised over $40.000 for cancer research, prevention and treatment! Jackson's swim school, Sea Star Swim School in Hendersonville, participated in this event in honor of Jackson.
August 9th, 2010
7:42 p.m.
Jackson's MRI is clear! Praise God!!! We are so blessed.
August 5th, 2010
12:27 a.m.
Jackson's MRI is this afternoon at 5. Please lift him up in prayer for another clear result.
This Saturday Jackson will be swimming at Sea Star Swim School to raise money for cancer research, prevention and treatment! We are very proud of our awesome little guy.
July 8th, 2010
6:36 p.m.
New photos added!
June 27th, 2010
4:00 p.m.
We all had a very exciting time Friday night at the White House Relay for Life Event. Jackson is an honorary member of The Small Soldiers Relay for Life Team, a team which exists in honor of him and in memory of another little soldier, Ethan Bibb, who lost his battle with cancer on May 16th, 2010. Jackson was asked to be Grand Marshal of the Survivor Lap, an honor he had hoped to share with Ethan. The team raised over $1100 at the event and over $2000 in donations prior to the event. Jackson raised the most with a total of $520.20! We have posted photos here. Be sure to visit Jackson's Relay page also!
May 11th, 2010
12:27 p.m.
Yet again, we are praising God for Jackson's clear MRI! He had it done Saturday and was such a brave little guy, as always. Thank you for your continued prayers and support. His next MRI will be in 3 months.
We have posted a few new photos on our photo album site, http://jacksonsophia.shutterfly.com/. One of these days we are going to sit down and upload the hundreds of photos we have on our camera :)
February 9th, 2010
6:50 p.m.
We are praising God for another clear MRI! Jackson did very well yesterday despite the fact that it was his first MRI without sedation. He never moved the entire time. What a tough little guy. Thanking each and every one of you for your continued prayers. Our next MRI will be in 3 months.
January 29th, 2010
5:30 p.m.
It's hard to believe Christmas has come and gone and it's almost February! Jackson and Sophia had a great Christmas and Jackson is doing very well in school. We keep meaning to update more often and add more pictures but time just gets away from us.
Jackson's next MRI is February 8th. Please join us in claiming another clear scan. As always, thanks to each and every one of you for keeping us lifted up in your prayers.
November 12th, 2009
11:00 p.m.
Another clear MRI!!! Praise God!
October 27th, 2009
7:00 p.m.
Wow how time flies! Jackson finished his treatments without any problem. His next MRI is November 9th. We are praising God he is doing so well. Please keep him lifted up for a clear MRI. He loves school and had a wonderful report card. Both he and Sophia are growing so fast. It's hard to believe Sophia will turn 1 in December!
September 13th, 2009
8:00 p.m.
3 weeks down and 3 to go! Way to go Jackson!
Jackson is tolerating his treatments very well. He is so cooperative which makes it soooooo much easier. He still loves school also. Nothing can slow him down :)
August 26th, 2009
10:50 p.m.
Jackson is doing very well with his radiation treatments. He listens to his music and lies perfectly still for the entire 20 minutes. We call the treatments 'laser treatments' and the radiologist calls his specially made mask a 'superhero' mask so Jackson thinks all of this is really cool.
He hasn't shown any evidence of side effects except he is a little tired at night but that may be because of school, which he loves.
We want to thank the Open Door Class and the Encouragers Class at Parkway Baptist Church, and Mary Lee Carrigan (Ryan's mom) for sponsoring Jackson through a program at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. Through their generosity, Jackson gets a gift every single day of therapy. Each day he gets a small gift and on Friday's, he gets a special gift. It makes it so much easier for him when he has something to look forward to :)
August 22nd, 2009
4:30 p.m.
Jackson did very well with his port placement on Thursday and with his radiation simulation yesterday. He starts radiation therapy on Monday. He loves school and his teacher even though "she's a girl".
August 13th, 2009
3:50 p.m.
Our visit with the radiation oncologist went very well. Jackson begins radiation treatments on the 24th and will have 5 treatments a week for 6 weeks. We are going to schedule the treatments either in the morning or evening so he won't have to miss school. He will have a port placed next Thursday because he will have blood work once a week and MRIs every 3 months for the next 2 years. He has no veins so we are so glad he is getting another port. It will be so much easier for him.
His recovery from surgery has gone extremely well. He is back to his normal self and is eating well.
August 6th, 2009
11:30 p.m.
Jackson got to come home from the hospital today and is doing well. He doesn't have much appetite and is a little fussy but that's to be expected after what he has been through and with being on steroid therapy. The pathology isn't back yet on his tumor but it had the characteristics of his first tumor, a choroid plexus carcinoma. We have an appointment with the radiation oncologist on Tuesday. We are all very happy to be home and to have the surgery behind us.
August 5th, 2009
4:30 p.m.
Jackson is doing great today! He had a post-operative MRI last night that was normal. He has no signs of brain injury or facial nerve injury. His physical therapy and speech therapy exams today were perfectly normal, praise the Lord! He walked a few steps today and tomorrow physical therapy is coming to help him get more active. If he continues to do well, he may even get to come home tomorrow! He really misses his baby sister. Daddy is going to bring her tonight for a visit. We may not be able to get her away from Jackson so Kat can take her back home :)
Dr. Pearson says that once he cut through the skull the tumor was "just sitting there staring at me". He was able to cut all the way around it to remove it. We don't have the pathology report back yet and we are praying for a miracle that the tumor is benign but if that isn't God's will, we will face whatever tomorrow holds standing firm in our faith. God is in control.
Jackson has LOVED getting your cards the past couple of weeks. It's his job to get the mail out of the box everyday and the day there were 25 cards just for him gave him the biggest smile ever :) He looks at them over and over and can't believe they are really for him.
August 4th, 2009
11:50 p.m.
Jackson's surgery went very well. Dr. Pearson was able to remove the tumor and scrape the tissue around it so we are very hopeful that all the cancer was removed. Jackson is in the ICU overnight. Thanks so much for your continued prayers and support. We will post more tomorrow.
August 1st, 2009
12:40 a.m.
Jackson's MRI and spinal fluid are negative for metastasis, Praise God! His surgery to remove the brain tumor is scheduled for Tuesday August 4th. We were very encouraged when Dr. Pearson showed us the MRI images of Jackson's first tumor 3 years ago and compared it to the image of the tumor he has now - what a difference! We had forgotten how HUGE the first tumor was. The one now is very small and Dr. Pearson feels like he can get right to it to remove it. We're not sure about the treatment plan yet, chemo vs radiation, but Dr. Kuttesch, Jackson's oncologist is setting it up for us to talk with the radiation oncologist. 3 years ago there were a lot of risks associated with Jackson's age but now that he is older radiation is an option.
Thanks so much for your prayers and support. They mean so much to us. Keep lifting Jackson up, praying for healing.
July 25th, 2009
11:30 p.m.
We all had a wonderful time at Jackson's birthday party. We have set up a new Photo Gallery using Shutterfly.com. We know you will want to look at all 152 photos so here is the link: www.jacksonsophia.shutterfly.com. Our older pictures are still in our old photo gallery.
July 24th, 2009
1:50 p.m.
On Wednesday July 22nd we heard the word we never wanted to hear again, tumor. Jackson's MRI on Monday showed that his tumor has returned. We are devastated but after seeing the oncologist, Dr. Kuttesch, we walked away feeling very positive. The tumor is very small and round. Jackson has no neurological symptoms and the tumor is not branching out. His first tumor 3 years ago was much larger. The tumor is in the same location as before and probably grew from cells that were lying dormant these past 3 years.
Usually this type of tumor comes back within 2 years. Jackson's tumor was removed 3 years ago and he finished chemo over 2 years ago. The length of time that has passed is "more good than bad" according to Dr. Kuttesch.
Dr. Pearson, the neurosurgeon who did Jackson's surgeries 3 years ago is already on board and will be presenting Jackson's case at the Tumor Board conference at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital on Monday. We go Tuesday for another head and spine MRI and also a lumbar puncture to check for cells in the spinal fluid. On Thursday it's back to Dr. Kuttesch to find out the test results and discuss the plan of care. Dr. Kuttesch reassured us that there are new treatment options that were not available 3 years ago.
We ask you to lift up Jackson with specific prayer requests:
Pray that this thing is GONE on Tuesday . . . but if it's not God's Will then we ask in His name that Dr. Pearson will be able to remove the entire tumor and that it hasn't spread.
Jackson starts school on August 18th. Pray for quick healing so that he does not miss much school. Should he need chemo, we pray that he will feel well enough to keep up.
Sitting down with Jackson to explain what is going on was very difficult but he took it very well. He really doesn't remember much of what he went through before. We explained to him that he has a knot in his head called a mass. He said "I have a mask in my head?". He knows he will probably need surgery and he is at peace with that. We reminded him that God had healed him once and could do it again.
Last night he saw Mommy crying and asked why I was upset. Before I could answer he said "I know, you’re worried about the MRI! Mommy, I'm fine. Stop worrying." I started to explain again that he shouldn't be afraid because God is taking care of him but he interrupted and said "I know all that, we don't have to talk about this again." That's our little man - he has a direct line to Jesus so there is no cause for concern.
We know that we have a long hard road ahead of us but we believe with every fiber of our being that God is not done with Jackson here on earth and that He has a very special purpose for him. We are now at total peace with our situation. And should we forget, Jackson will remind us!
Tomorrow, we will gather with family and friends at The Aquarium to celebrate Jackson's 6th birthday (BD is July 29th). And celebrate we will, not only his birthday but his healing. We feel God's presence with us and both of our little angels every second of every day. Your prayers do make a difference!
June 24th, 2009
10:40 p.m.
Wow! Time flies! Things are going very well in the Ashley household. Jackson and Sophia are both strong and healthy and growing oh so fast. We promise to have more photos posted soon :) So much going on. Jackson's next MRI is July 20th and his 6th birthday is July 29th! Please join us in claiming yet another clear MRI.
April 10th, 2009
5 a.m.
This is the 3rd anniversary of Jackson being diagnosed. We are so blessed that he is healthy, strong and cancer-free!
March 3rd, 2009
8:20 p.m.
Check out Jackson's Last Chemo sign to the right! 2 YEARS! Praise God.
February 14th, 2009
11:30 p.m.
We have updated our Honorary Engineer page regarding Ben, who just got home from the hospital.
January 26th, 2009
9:15 p.m.
Jackson saw his oncologist, Dr. Kuttesch yesterday and received a clean bill of heath! In fact, he is doing so well that Dr. Kuttesch does not need to see him again for 6 months.
We also want to let you know that we are adding a new page to the website. Since we began our journey, we have been contacted by other parents who have found Jackson's site by searching for information on their own children's tumors. You have read about some of them in our updates. The new page is still under construction but we have sadly learned that one special little boy, Ben, who lives in England, will be undergoing surgery on the 29th again because his tumors have come back. Please pray for Ben, Neil and Nicky.
January 21st, 2009
9 a.m.
Jackson's MRI is clear, praise the Lord! Thank you all for your continuous support and prayers. Mommy plans to write a longer update soon, but as you can imagine, she has her hands full with Jackson and baby Sophia.
January 3rd, 2009
6:20 p.m.
Just wanted to update everyone on how we are doing. Sophia is doing great and Jackson is adjusting well to having a baby sister in the house :) He loves loving on her. We also want to ask that you join us in claiming another clear MRI for Jackson. His next MRI is January 19th. We praise God for the health of both of our children!
December 14th, 2008
8:20 p.m.
Great news! Mommy and Sophia are both at home and doing well. Sophia is such a good baby! She is taking her bottles without a problem. Jackson is beside himself - he can't stop hugging and kissing on her. We are so happy to be home and also wanted to say that we were very blessed to have had 2 nurses whom we go to church with, Becca and Amy, taking care of Sophia in the NICU. We received wonderful care from everyone at the hospital and we are very grateful to all.
December 12th, 2008
9:10 a.m.
Sophia is still in the NICU but she is doing very well and may get to come home tomorrow or Sunday. She doesn't need the IV or feeding tube anymore and they are just watching her blood sugar for another day or so. Mommy is being discharged today so hopefully Sophia won't have to stay much longer! We truly appreciate your prayers and support. We will post more pictures once we get settled at home :)
December 10th, 2008
1:00 a.m.
Just a quick update on Sophia - she is progressing as expected and the doctors in the NICU are pleased. She did decide that she didn't like the bottle quite as much as she first thought so she now has a feeding tube and an IV but those are only temporary until her little body gets used to things. Jackson is not very happy as he was expecting to take her home with him right after she was born! He kept looking through the nursery window and asking "so how are we gonna get her out of there?" No need for her and mommy to stay in the hospital :) Mommy should be released on Friday and we are all praying that Sophia gets to come home with her.
December 8th, 2008
11:00 p.m.
Our Third Miracle!
Miss Sophia Kathleen Ashley has arrived! Born at 12:23 p.m., she weighed 12 pounds 2 ounces and is 23 inches long! Wow! You can see her pictures here. She is doing very well though her blood sugar was a little low, requiring her to go to the ICU overnight. But don't worry, that's common in larger babies. It will just take a little time for her to get in the swing of things. Jackson's blood sugar was low when he was born and it took a couple of days to normalize.
Our God is an awesome God who has given us three miracles in 5 short years! First we had the birth of Jackson when we thought we would never experience pregnancy, then his cure from cancer, and now Sophia! We are so blessed. Thank you for your continued prayers and support for our family. We will keep you posted on Sophia's progress.
December 5th, 2008
10:15 a.m.
Just wanted to let everyone know that Jackson's baby sister, Sophia, has decided she wants to arrive early. We are now excitedly anticipating her arrival on December 8th! We will post photos as soon as we have them. Please keep us in your prayers.
November 17th, 2008
4:30 p.m
It's been a while since we have posted but we have been very busy with a lot of very exciting changes in our lives! First of all, we want to let everyone know how well Jackson is doing. He is growing and full of energy! We moved into our new home in September and Jackson loves his new room and most of all his playroom. He also has a new cat named Tiger. But he is most excited about becoming a big brother! He can't wait to see his "little girl" who is due to make her appearance on or about December 14th. According to Jackson, her name is "OSophia". No, the 'O' is not a typo. Mommy and Daddy have not quite agreed on the name yet :) Hmmm.
September 24th, 2008
10:30 p.m
We are so thankful to tell you that Jackson's MRI was completely normal! Thanks so much for your continued prayers and support. Jackson is now 17 months out of treatment, praise God!
September 13th, 2008
10:20 p.m
We can't believe 4 months have passed since Jackson's last MRI. His next scan is coming up on September 22nd. Once again, we ask that you lift him up in prayer and join us in claiming a clear MRI and continued good health. He is such a brave little man when it comes to the IV sticks but just in case, please ask for peace and courage for him.
Jackson got to see Thomas the Tank Engine once again last weekend - and no, he still isn't tired of Thomas!
For those of you keeping up with Jackson's buddy Ryan Carrigan, we praise God that Ryan's MRI was clear on September 2nd!
July 12th, 2008
7:15 p.m
It's hard to believe that we will be celebrating Jackson's 5th birthday on July 29th! He is growing so fast. Even more reason to celebrate is the fact that this
is his second birthday off chemo. Rejoice with us. Our God is truly an awesome God!
June 30th, 2008
10:15 p.m.
Be sure to check out the photo gallery for new pics. Jackson is doing great and is really enjoying the summer. His favorite thing is swimming and he is taking classes again this year. He is also quite the fisherman, bringing in 6 fish during a trip to the lake today! Of course no one remembered to bring a camera . . .
May 16th, 2008
8:47 a.m.
We got wonderful news from Jackson's doctor, his MRI is clear!! Woo Hoo!!! Praise You and thank You God!!! Thank you everyone who lifted Jackson up in prayer and especially a big thank You to our Heavenly Father who continues to bless our son and is providing Jackson with good health. The IV stick went well, but he did have to get stuck twice and ended up with an IV on the inside of his wrist, which happens to be a very sensitive spot. His nurse, Chris, couldn't believe how well Jackson handled it...he didn't flinch, or shed a tear. I know the reason Jackson handled it so well, God gave him peace. We prayed for Jackson to have peace and once again God answered our prayers.
Again, thanks to all of you who prayed Jackson up. Thank You God for the many blessings you have given us, especially the blessing of a healthy boy.
Jackson's buddy, Ryan Carrigan is having his next MRI on May 30th. Will you please join us in prayer for another clear MRI for Ryan.
May 7th, 2008
12:30 a.m.
Time sure does fly. It has been four months since Jackson's last MRI and here we are again and it's time for another one. Next Tuesday, May 13th, Jackson goes for another MRI. Please join us in prayer as we claim another clear MRI and for Jackson to be brave and have peace as he gets an IV. Jack and I have total peace, courtesy of our Heavenly Father, but as humans we do sometimes get nervous. We appreciate every prayer sent to Heaven on behalf of our son, and we can never thank you enough. I've said it many times before and will continue to say it, but your prayers do sustain us and we truly appreciate every one of them. Jackson has to be at the clinic at 7:30 on Tuesday morning for the IV stick and after that he will have his MRI.
March 20th, 2008
12:00 p.m.
We are coming upon the two year anniversary of Jackson's diagnosis. Good Friday will mark this anniversary and so we are reminded once again just how awesome our God is. We count our blessings everyday for Jackson's health and we thank God everyday for all of you who continue to lift our son up in prayer. As I've asked you many times before, please do not cease in praying for Jackson, he really does need each and every prayer, not only a prayer for continued health, but also a prayer of praise.
As we approach Easter, I want you to know this special day is Jackson's favorite holiday (after Christmas of course). For about three years now he has loved this holiday. He talks about Easter all thru the year and he loves to read about it as well. I truly feel God has placed this on his heart.
We are so thankful for such an awesome God who allowed His Son, His only Son to die on the cross for my sins, our sins. Praise God for the resurrection that happened three days later! God is indeed awesome!!!
Jackson's buddy, Ryan Carrigan continues to do well. All of his MRI's have been clear, praise God! His port was removed a few weeks ago and he is doing so well. Please continue to keep Ryan and his family in your prayers. He is still unable to smile and chewing is difficult for him, so please pray specifically for those facial muscles to work the way God intended them to and for that precious smile to return.
I'll update this site next week with some Easter pictures.
Praise You God for the many blessings in our lives and for keeping our son healthy. We give You all the praise, honor, and glory!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May you all have a wonderful Easter holiday and remember the real reason for the holiday.
February 20th, 2008
9:15 p.m.
Every year across the nation, people come together to participate in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life®. It is a time to celebrate those who have survived cancer, remember those we’ve lost, and fight back against a disease that touches too many lives.
To honor Jackson as a cancer survivor, his 'Aunt DoDo' will be joining others in White House TN for the annual Relay for Life event on the night of May 2nd. If you would like to offer your support, please visit her page on the Relay website. We appreciate your continued prayers and support.
January 31st, 2008
5:00 p.m.
Today we lost Jack's father, and Jackson's PawPaw. Our hearts are sad, however, we know he is in heaven right now and he is free from pain and suffering. We were blessed to have been in the room when he left us and went into the arms of God. Please remember the family in your prayers as we go on with life without our sweet, tender-hearted, precious dad, Daddy Jack, PawPaw. We are so thankful that God gave Jack such a good dad, a Christian dad, who set a very good example for his family. He and Jack's mom have been married over 51 years and so we especially ask for you to lift her up in prayer as she goes on with life without him. We know God hears our prayers and He is already beginning to heal our hearts. Jackson is handling this well, probably due to his age, but he knows for sure that his PawPaw now lives with Jesus.
Thank you for your prayers.
January 26th, 2008
12:00 a.m.
We know many of you have read the guest book entry by Jennifer Rodacker, whose precious baby boy has a choroid plexus tumor like Jackson had. We wanted to share Thomas's website with you so that you can join us as we pray for Jenny, Jeff, Tommy and Corrina.
January 25th, 2008
12:15 a.m.
Jackson's MRI was clear and we are on our knees praising our Heavenly Father for this wonderful news. We can't even begin to tell you how excited we are. Not only are we praising our precious Lord for the clear MRI but we are also praising Him for the IV stick going so smoothly. Jackson held out his hand and was still so his nurse, Chris, could insert the IV. She got it on the first try so we are praising God for this wonderful nurse and the talent she possesses. Jackson was a very brave boy for being so still and he didn't even shed a tear, so thank you God for the peace that you gave Jackson Monday morning. Next Monday we have an appointment with his doctor for a checkup.
Thank you to everyone who lifted Jackson up in prayer, we can never thank you enough. Please continue to pray for him and for every future MRI, to be clear.
On a sad note, Jackson's Pawpaw is in the hospital and not doing well. He's in CCU and we really just don't know how much time he has left with us. This is Jack's dad and Jackson's only living grandfather. We know how God can heal, but our prayer is that if he can't be well, that God would take him home so he doesn't have to suffer. He is currently on a ventilator and heavily sedated. We would appreciate your prayers for him and especially Jack's mom. Thank you so much...we love you all who are so faithful to lift us up in prayer on a daily basis.
January 18th, 2008
9:20 a.m.
Jackson's next MRI is this Monday, January 21st at 8:00am. Will you please agree with us in prayer for a clear MRI and peace for Jackson as he gets an IV stick. Thank you for your continued support and prayers.
December 28th, 2007
6:00 p.m.
We all had a wonderful Christmas and wish a blessed New Year for all of you!
By the way, we are rejoicing with Ryan's family over the great news that his MRI is clear.
December 11th, 2007
12:00 p.m.
Ryan's next MRI is December 20th so please be praying for him and thanking God for his good report.
December 9th, 2007
4:00 p.m.
We had a good time in Dallas for the November 18th game. Jackson didn't care too much for the noise, but other than that, it was a great time. For a while we thought we'd have to leave Jack in Dallas. The Cowboys almost lost the game and there was no way he was coming back with us if they lost. Thankfully, Dallas pulled it out and won and Jack had a ride home.
Before we hit Texas, we made a stop in Oklahoma to visit family, Sharon and Breuer. We had a wonderful time while there and Jackson took right to Sharon (Nana). He helped Nana do yard work and gather wood for the bon fire we would be having later that night. In the mornings we would hear Sharon and Jackson talking in the kitchen while she cooked breakfast...it was so sweet hearing him carrying on a conversation with Nana. Sharon has a fish named "Connor", so guess what we had to get when we got home, yep, a fish and Jackson named him "Connor".
Jackson is looking forward to Christmas and Santa coming to visit. He is loving all the Christmas decorations he's seeing everywhere. We are reminded that this time last year, Jackson was going through chemo and had not a hair on his head and now he's done with chemo and has a head full of that gorgeous, red hair. Praise you God for healing our son!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you God for all the blessings we are enjoying!!!!!
Our friend, Ryan Carrigan is now finished with chemo and is doing well. He had a little setback as he got an infection and had to go back to the hospital, but he is now at home and doing well. Praise you God for your healing on Ryan!!! Please keep this sweet family in your prayers.
Our precious Brother Jimmy who was diagnosed in August with lymphoma, is now in the arms of our Heavenly Father. We miss him more than I can ever say, but we know he is now pain free and having a ball. He is not only with our Lord, he has also been reunited with his mother, mother in law, and his other loved ones who have gone on before him. Please pray for his wife, Mrs. Beverly and their sweet family as they go through this holiday season without their loved one.
Jackson's next MRI is January 21st. Will you please agree with us in prayer for another clear MRI. We know Jackson is healed only by the grace of God and we give Him all praise and glory. Thank all of you who continue to remember Jackson in your prayers...please never stop. We covet your prayers and need them on a daily basis. Thank you so much.
Our family wishes you a Merry Christmas. Remember to keep God first and focus not on the presents but the reason for the season...Jesus Christ.
November 11, 2007
9:00 a.m.
Jackson is doing fine after his ear tube procedure. He saw his doctor last week and all of the tests she ran were normal, including his hearing! We are very thankful that the chemo did not do any damage.
We will tell you about our Dallas trip soon.
Jackson's little buddy Ryan will soon be done with his chemo, too!
October 23, 2007
1:00 a.m.
Jackson did very well with his ear tubes. He tolerated the procedure well. He had some fluid in his left ear so he really needed those tubes. The doctor checked his adnoids which were fine. He had a little inflammation in his airway and she took a sample for the lab to evaluate. This may be due to acid reflux and he may need a change of medication. We will let you know more when we get the report back.
October 19, 2007
11:00 p.m.
On Monday, October 22nd, Jackson will be having tubes put in his ears. He doesn't have ear infections but he keeps fluid on his ears which could eventually affect his hearing. Thank God his hearing is fine and the chemo did not affect his auditory nerves, but due to his frequent hearing tests because of the chemo, it was discovered there was fluid that never seemed to go away. This surgery is very minor to us considering all that he has been thru, however we are once again asking for prayer for his safety during the procedure and a speedy recovery. The doctor will also be looking down his throat during the procedure because Jackson seems to keep a cough (this is a problem he's had since he's been an infant). We are praying this is just allergies and nothing any more serious than that.
Thank you again for being so faithful to pray for Jackson.
October 15, 2007
8:00 p.m.
We apologize for this late entry but we just got back from Gulf Shores, AL. We wanted everyone to know that Jackson's MRI was clear and once again we are rejoicing and praising our Heavenly Father. We are continually praising God, however when we hear from the doctor that yet another MRI is clear, our God gets a huge shout out of thanks and praise. Our God is awesome and we are so grateful to Him for Jackson's restored health. One of my favorite verses in the Bible is Mark 11:22-24...
22 So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. 23For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.
We pray this verse over and over and we believe Jackson's health has been restored for the rest of his days on this earth. We have faith and we believe in what we are asking for in our prayers. Glory be to God!!
We are still working on getting Disney pictures online and then we'll get the beach pictures on as well. Thanks again to all of you who are keeping our sweet little boy in your prayers. I ask that you keep praying on. Thank you and God bless!
October 8, 2007
9:45 p.m.
Jackson's MRI went very well. He even laughed when the nurse started his IV and got blood on the pillow case:) Maybe because he is usually the one making the mess. We hope to hear the results tomorrow though we are sure the news will be good! He is scheduled to get tubes in his ears on October 22nd and he sees his oncologist on October 29th.
We have had several calls and emails asking about our Disney photos. Well, we promise you will see them soon. We just got them put on CD today and we need to sort through them to choose which ones to use on the site. Sorry for the delay. Between us and our web designer, Aunt Doy, we just haven't had a chance to get this done.
October 3, 2007
12:15 p.m.
Jackson's MRI is this Monday, October 8th. Will you please pray for Jackson and claim with us a clear MRI. We also ask you to pray for him to have peace as he gets an IV and pray for his nurse so that she will get it the first time. Thanks to all of you who are faithfully praying for Jackson and for us as well. Again, we can't tell you enough how much those prayers mean to us.
The wish trip was so wonderful!! Jackson had a great time at Disney and we would like to thank the company who sponsored him, Kroll Background America. This was a trip that will be talked about for many years to come and we are so thankful to all of those who made it possible. A lot of work and money went to make this trip a reality and we thank God for every person who had a part in it. In a few days we'll post some pictures from the trip. Thank you Kroll for everything!!!!!
September 3, 2007
12:00 p.m.
On Saturday, August 18th Jackson had his wish party at the Rain Forest Cafe. Not only did Dena, his Wish Coordinator come, so did three of the employees from Kroll. Kroll is the company that is sponsoring Jackson on his upcoming trip to Disney. It was wonderful meeting these three woman and words can never express our gratitude for this company for sponsoring Jackson. Anyway, we had a great time... the food was great, the manager of the restaurant was wonderful, and having our family, and our new friends all together was the icing on the cake. See the photos here...
Jackson continues to do very well, Praise You Lord!! He continues to take swimming lessons and is loving that. He also started Mother's Day Out at our church and is really enjoying that. We continue to be amazed at all the blessings God is pouring out to our child and to us. Please continue to pray for our son and that God will keep His healing hand on him. Jackson's next MRI is October 8th so please join us in praying this MRI will be clear.
Jackson's buddy, Ryan Carrigan's MRI was clear and we are praising God for that.
Jackson's adopted grandfather, Bro. Jimmy has been really sick and he is now at home and doing much better. We ask that you will join us in praying for his total recovery. Our family loves this man so much and he means so much to us. Jackson is really excited Bro. Jimmy is at home now because he really didn't like him having to sleep in a "white bed" (AKA: the hospital bed).
Thank you again for your love and support. Most especially we thank you for your prayers...we need them and we are grateful for them.
August 15, 2007
5:45 p.m.
Our little friend Ryan is having an MRI tomorrow so please keep him in your prayers.
Jackson just finished a week of swimming lessons and loved every minute of it! Mommy had a few anxious moments, though. He can float on his back for endless periods of time and even jumped from the diving board :)
July 22, 2007
6:40 p.m.
The doctor's appt went well on Monday. The doctor states he is doing fine, a healthy boy. Blood work looks great, MRI looks great, he looks great!! All we can say is Praise the Lord!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
His next MRI is 10-8-07 at 10:00. Let's start praying now. Actually we've already claimed it!
Jackson will be 4 next Sunday!
July 10, 2007
11:50 p.m.
Jackson's MRI is negative once again, Praise the Lord! After an initial 'fear' fit, he settled down and allowed the nurse to start his IV without any further fuss. No more IVs or MRIs for 3 months! We go for our follow-up visit with Dr. Kuttesch (the oncologist) next week.
We would like to let you know that we still read Jackson's guestbook every day and are very thankful for your entries. Please also visit the websites of Ryan & Asher. We know they appreciate your thoughts and prayers as much as we do.
July 4, 2007
10:45 p.m.
Jackson had a great time today celebrating the 4th! We ended the day watching fireworks. We have also added new photos so be sure and check them out. Watch for Jackson's first haircut since chemo!
We just want to remind everyone that Jackson is having his MRI on Monday and to ask that you continue to pray that the IV access procedure will go well. He is used to having his port and will probably not be too happy about being stuck!
June 28, 2007
11:45 p.m.
Jackson will have his next MRI on Monday, July 9th. Please pray this MRI will be clear, and also especially pray for Jackson to have peace and courage because now that his port a cath is out, he will have to be stuck in his arms, hands, or feet in order for the doctor to have IV access. We are praying this won't be too traumatic for him. We are already praising God because we know this is going to be another clear MRI. Thank you for your continued prayers.
June 22, 2007
11:50 p.m.
Check out Jackson's new hair!
June 11, 2007
11:00 p.m.
We got back from Gatlinburg a few days ago and Jackson had a wonderful time, we all did. He was very excited to see the mountains and loved going through the tunnels. Jackson also rode the go carts, first with mom and then with dad. It was so much fun watching him have such a great time. We went swimming, rode the kiddie train and the kiddie swings. We mostly ate though. Jackson developed a love for eggs and sausage...we didn't think we'd ever fill him up. I think we all brought back an extra ten pounds.
We praise God for this trip as we were reminded that a little over a year ago when we made this trip Jackson had just had his second surgery and was recovering from that. We were also facing his first chemo treatment. We had left Gatlinburg on a Thursday, had his hair cut that evening and began chemo on Friday. Wow, what a difference a year makes. This year, our little angel is healthy & strong and we can't thank God often enough or loud enough. God is awesome, He is good, and He is faithful ALL THE TIME!!! I will praise God for the rest of my life to anyone who will listen and will gladly tell anyone what God has done and is continuing to do for our son and our family. We don't know what the future holds for any of us, only God knows that, but we believe and claim total healing for our child and we hold on to that faith. We ask that you please, please continue to pray for Jackson, please don't ever let up. We covet your prayers and need them daily.
We again want to thank our church family for their love for us. I can't begin to tell you how much they mean to us. They have prayed for us, loved us, supported us, and just been there for us through all of this. We know we are right where God wants us. Our church is Parkway Baptist Church in Madison for those that would like to know. It is an awesome church that is full of love. When I walk in the doors I always have a sense of peace, no matter what is going on in my life. I thank God for every person there.
Jackson started VBS (vacation Bible school) today and he had a great time. It started off a little rough because he thought mom was going to get out of his site, but it wound up being a wonderful day. He couldn't wait to tell his dad about his day.
Jackson has an appointment with the ear, nose, and throat doctor this Friday so please pray this appointment will go well.
I will be adding some pictures to this site very soon so be sure to check back in a few days.
Thanks again for your love and support, we love you all.
May 30, 2007
4:30 p.m.
Today Jackson went for his hearing test and we are thrilled the test came back within the normal limits. Thank you for continuing to keep us in your prayers ...we love you all.
May 22, 2007
6:55 p.m.
Jackson is doing great after having his port removed. He even got to go to Mommy's graduation on Saturday and then out to eat at the Outback. He ate more than anyone else at the table! His next MRI is sometime in July. We will let you know when we have a date.
May 16, 2007
11:30 p.m.
Jackson went for his hearing test on Wednesday but it had to be postponed when it was discovered that his port had dislodged. He will have outpatient surgery on Thursday morning to have the port removed. The original plan was to remove it in July after his next MRI.
April 26, 2007
10:30 a.m.
Jackson's doctor visit last week went well. He was glad to see Ms. Chris and Dr. Kuttesch and he got a very good report. His labs came back within the normal limits and we got the official word that his MRI was in fact, clear. Praise our Heavenly Father! Jackson goes for a hearing test next month, and in July he will have another MRI. Please continue to keep Jackson in your prayers as he continues on this journey.
Jackson's hair is rapidly growing back and we are so thrilled about that. It looks like it is going to come back red or have red in it anyway. The red is very obvious in the sunlight. He weighs 56.6 lbs and is 43 1/2 inches tall.
Jackson's buddy, Ryan is continuing to go through chemo and is doing well. Please pray for him and his precious family. Ryan's counts are down right now so he has to be careful not to be around anyone with any type of cold, etc. Also pray for his appetite to improve. He is really wanting some strawberries right now but with his counts so low, he can't have them just yet. Ryan is very brave but I know he and his family would appreciate your prayers.
We are so thankful for God's amazing grace and love He has shown to us and is continuing to show us.
April 14, 2007
12:30 a.m.
Jackson's MRI was clear!! WOO HOO!!!!!!! Praise You God!! We are so thankful for yet another clear MRI. God is Awesome!! Thank you to everyone who continues to pray for our precious little boy. You'll never know how much it means to our family.
Jackson has an appointment on Monday with his oncologist. This is the first appointment since he has finished his treatments.
April 11, 2007
6:00 p.m.
Please remember Jackson as he has his MRI tomorrow, Thursday, April 12th at 5:00pm. We will let you know what the results show just as soon as we find out, however we already know it's going to be a great report because we have claimed it. Thank you once again for your love and support.
April 4, 2007
9:20 a.m.
Sunday was our first day back to church as a family in many months and it was wonderful. We've missed being in church as a family and we just can't begin to tell you how wonderful it felt to be back. Our church family has been so great to us and really has prayed us through this past year and we thank God for each and every one of them everyday. Their love and support has meant so much to us.
Jackson was excited to be back in Sunday School and couldn't get to his classroom fast enough. I think he was most excited about the marshmallows, goldfish, and animal crackers he gets at snack time. He was also glad to see Ms. Donna and Ms. Wanda who are his teachers.
This Friday, Good Friday will mark the one year anniversary of Jackson's diagnosis. It's been a long, hard year but it has been a good year as well. We've been closer to God than ever before and we've seen His work in Jackson's life as well in ours. We are so thankful and grateful that Jackson has done so well with his surgeries, chemo, and shots and has come through it all bigger and stronger than ever before. Only God can do this! We give all praise and honor to our Lord, the Great Physician. He is the one responsible for Jackson's good health today. We are thankful for his doctors and nurses, but it is God and only God who has restored Jackson's health. The doctors and nurses are the vessels that God has used and we are forever grateful for them as well.
We are thankful for this time of the year as we are reminded that Jesus died for us, for our sins on Good Friday and arose from the dead on Easter Sunday. We see His handiwork all around...the flowers, the green grass, our son's healing. Please continue to pray for Jackson and for his continued good health. We have claimed total healing for Jackson and we are continuing to rely on our faith that Jackson is healed from cancer for the rest of his life, please join us in that same prayer. Also, please pray for Jackson's next MRI which is April 12th.
We love you all and are so very thankful for all of your prayers, support, and entries in his guestbook.
April 1, 2007
9:40 p.m.
Jackson is doing great! Check out his photo gallery to see his first fish!
March 18, 2007
9:00 p.m.
Jackson got 3 units of platelets on Friday but hopefully this is the last transfusion. He was able to stop the shots which build his white blood cells and we are VERY thankful for that. With the chemo over, he just needs time for his body to get back to normal. He is no longer on 'isolation' so will be able to spend more time with his friends now :)
March 11, 2007
6:00 p.m.
I forgot to mention in the last update that Jackson's hearing test went great! This was the best one yet, so we are once again praising God for all He has done and is continuing to do.
Jackson is doing so well. He really hasn't had any bad days this time around and he is just playing with his trains and enjoying this beautiful weather. His home health nurse comes on Monday so we are praying that his counts are coming up so we can stop giving him shots. As always, please continue to lift Jackson up in your prayers as we still have a long journey ahead of us. Thank you.
March 4, 2007
9:40 p.m.
We are very happy to report that Jackson's chemo is over! Praise God!! Jackson did very well this last round with no bouts of nausea or vomiting and we are so thankful for that. Even though his chemo is over, please continue to keep him in your prayers. We still have MRI's, blood work, hearing tests, and doctor visits to get through. This journey won't be officially over for about five more years. Please continue to pray that God will keep His hand of healing on our son and that he will have a lifetime free from cancer. Thank each and every one of you who have prayed us through chemo, you will never know how much it has meant to us.
It was wonderful and sad all at the same time last night when we left the hospital. It was hard saying goodbye to his nurses. They have all been so wonderful to Jackson and to us. Jackson really loved his nurses and care partners and we are forever grateful for their love and for helping us through this. Some of the nurses we want to thank are Carrie, Summer, Holly, Corrie, Lori, Theresa, Jessica, Holly, Heather, Ginger, Leslie Ann, & Leslie. Our care partners Donna, & Ellie (the lovely one who played & talked with Jackson at midnight while mom and dad snoozed away). Anyway, I'm sorry if I left anyone's name out...you are still in our hearts. Point is, you all made a difference in our lives and we thank you for all you've done. Ellie starts nursing school in the fall so good luck to you Ellie, you'll make a great nurse!
Jackson's next MRI is on April 12th so please pray for another clear one.
Thank you again for your love, prayers, & support during these past several months, we'll never forget it. Again, please don't stop praying for Jackson just because his chemo is over, he needs it more than ever now. Thank you and we love you all. We give all Praise, Honor, and Glory to our Lord and Savior...He is Awesome!!!!!!!!!
February 28, 2007
9:20 p.m.
Jackson goes for his hearing test in the morning, then into the hospital for his 11th round of chemo. He is looking forward to seeing his friend Ryanthere!
February 26, 2007
5:20 p.m.
Today we found out that Jackson's MRI is clear. We are praising God yet once again for His many, many blessings, and the many, many answered prayers. Thanks to all of you who are continuing to remember us in your prayers. We love you all and we especially love our God who is our Awesome God!
February 23, 2007
10:00 p.m.
Jackson came thru his MRI just fine. He was very big and brave and enjoyed seeing all his favorite nurses in the MRI department, nurses Donna, and Michelle. He also got to see Ms. Chris in the clinic. After the MRI, Jackson still had some of the "happy juice" in his system so he stumbled around for a while. Jack finally got him to the truck by carrying him since he was stammering around too much to walk by himself. Once in the truck Jackson started singing, and he sang all the way home. However, as he was singing one of his favorite songs "The Wheels on the Bus", it was noticed that the lyrics weren't quite right, instead of singing "the people on the bus go up and down", it was "the fish on the bus go up and down", needless to say Jackson was feeling no pain.
We haven't heard any results yet, but we know our Lord and Savior already knows the results and we have faith this MRI is clear and we are praising Him now for what is yet to come.
February 18, 2007
12:30 p.m.
Jackson went to Kabuto Japanese Steak House last night to eat. He loved the big fire on the grill, especially when it was at someone else's table instead of ours :)
Just a reminder, Jackson has another MRI this Thursday. His next chemo is March 1st. He has a small lump on his head which we are sure is nothing to worry about but please continue to pray for his complete healing.
February 15, 2007
10:00 p.m.
Congratulations to Mommy for passing her nursing boards! We never doubted you would!
February 14, 2007
9:00 p.m.
Today Jackson needed 3 units of platelets. He did really well except his favorite nurse Chris wasn't in the clinic today. He was really brave and we were really proud of him. Once again we want to thank everyone that goes out and donates blood and platelets, it really does help save lives.
Jackson's next MRI is next week, Thursday February 22nd so please be praying that his scan is clear. Thank you everyone.
February 12, 2007
8:30 p.m.
We are happy to report that Pawpaw is recovering well from his bout of pneumonia. He really gave us a scare! Jackson is doing great, also.
February 5, 2007
6:30 p.m.
Jackson tolerated his chemo very well and we were able to come home Saturday night. Mommy is busy studying hard for her NCLEX-RN exam, which is on Wednesday!
February 2, 2007
12:30 p.m.
We are very happy to report remarkable improvement in Jackson's hearing test! Thanks so much for your prayers. He had his first round of chemo last night and has done very well. He has a treatment tonight and tomorrow night and then we will be going home.
January 30, 2007
1:30 p.m.
Jackson will be going to have his hearing tested again this week before his chemo since the results were not very good last time. We ask that you be praying that his hearing is not damaged.
January 25, 2007
10:10 p.m.
Jackson's next scheduled chemo is on Thursday, February 1st. Please pray this round goes well and he doesn't have any nausea or vomiting. Again, thank you for your prayers.
January 22, 2007
2:11 p.m.
Jackson is doing really well, he has a great appetite, and is playing up a storm. He needed some platelets on Friday but other than that he is doing great! We are so thankful for the person who took the time to donate their platelets. There is a shortage of blood at the American Red Cross and especially a shortage of O negative blood, which just happens to be Jackson's type. We encourage everyone to go out and give blood and platelets. Every time we are in the clinic there are numerous kids getting blood and/or platelets and it would be terrible if the blood wasn't available to these children.
We should be going in for round #10 in a couple of weeks, we just don't have an exact date yet, as soon as we know we'll pass that information along.
Thank you for your continued prayers, love, and support for our precious child and for us.
January 14, 2007
7:20 p.m.
Jackson is doing great.
January 8, 2007
11:50 p.m.
Jackson did well with his chemo and he had no nausea or vomiting...Praise the Lord!!! We got home around 10:30 last night and he's had a good day today. He starts his shots again tomorrow, so pray that goes well.
January 1, 2007
8:50 p.m.
Jackson will be having blood drawn to check his platelets on Wednesday and if all is well, he will go into the hospital on Friday to start round 9 of his chemo. Please pray for Mommy, who is in Chattanooga this week preparing for nursing boards and will miss her little angel (and her big angel, too). Also pray for Daddy and Jackson who will be home alone this week :)
December 28th, 2006
11:50 p.m.
Jackson did not have his chemo today because his platelets were too low. His doctor has decided that instead of trying to do chemo every three weeks they are going to schedule it every four weeks since that is about how long his body is taking to recover. He will be admitted next Friday, January 5th for the 9th round. In the meantime, Jackson is enjoying this extra "free" time he has.
Jackson also had his hearing test today and the results weren't very good. However, Jackson does have some (actually a lot) of congestion and he has fluid in one of his ears so we choose to believe that this played a part in the result of the test. Anybody that knows Jackson knows this child can hear anything and everything that he chooses to hear. Jackson just doesn't like going for the hearing test so he only pays attention for just a limited time and after that he totally tunes the lady out (he learned this special skill from his dad). Anyway, please pray that his little body is protected from any serious side effects of the chemo. Thank you for praying for our little angel.
December 26th, 2006
10:00 p.m.
Jackson's MRI is negative again, Praise God! We always know it will be but there is still that few days when we have to wait for the official report. We are getting ready for another trip to the hospital on Thursday for chemo round #9. Jackson has had a great Christmas. We may need to add another room onto the house just to hold all of his new toys! Mommy and Daddy got great gifts also - thank you all so very much!
December 23rd, 2006
5:00 p.m.
Mommy finally got to meet Ryan Carrigan, his mommy, and his grandmommy at the clinic on Thursday. It was Ryan's final day of radiation, praise God!! He has an MRI scheduled January 9th and then shortly after that he will begin his chemo. Please pray for his MRI to be clear and just please continue to remember him in prayers daily. You can read all about Ryan at his website, it is www.updatesonryan.blogspot.com.
December 21st, 2006
5:00 p.m.
Today Jackson had his MRI and he did very well. He also had his blood drawn for his counts. His white blood cells were within the normal range so we can stop his Neupogen shots. Praise God!!! His platelets were very low at 10,000. The normal platelet range starts at 150,000. Jackson got some much needed platelets and we praise God for the person that donated those platelets. Overall it was a good day. The preliminary report on his MRI is stable, meaning there is no change, Praise You once again Lord!!! Please continue to pray that the final report states the same.
Jackson goes in for his 9th round of chemo next Thursday, December 28th. Please pray that it goes well and that he has no nausea or vomiting. I also ask you to please pray that the chemo does what it is intended to do but that his organs and his little body is protected from any serious side effects of it.
Thank you for continuing to keep Jackson in your prayers. We couldn't make it thru this very difficult time without our God and without friends like all of you praying us thru this. Thank you so much.
December 17th, 2006
11:50 a.m.
Jackson is doing well. His MRI will be on the 21st and his next chemo is scheduled for the 28th if his counts are high enough.
More good news - Mommy has officially finished nursing school and her pinning ceremony was Thursday night! She starts work on January 8th as a brand new nurse.
December 12th, 2006
11:00 p.m.
Jackson has not experienced any nausea with this round of chemo. He is on steroids for a few days and that must be doing the trick. He is eating us out of house and home!
December 9th, 2006
6:00 p.m.
Jackson has tolerated his chemo very well! He hasn't been sick at all and has eaten better than ever while in the hospital. He will get to come home tonight after his last chemo treatment for this round. We aren't sure but we think he will only have a total of 11 rounds of chemo and this is #8! He will have an MRI on December 21st.
Jackson and Daddy finally got to meet Ryan and his Mommy in the clinic on Thursday. We pray Ryan does just as well as Jackson with his treatments.
December 6th, 2006
10:30 p.m.
Happy Birthday to Mommy!
Jackson is scheduled to go to the hospital in the morning for his 8th round of chemo. Mommy will be taking her books to study for finals. Her pinning ceremony is December 14th!
December 1st, 2006
12:50 a.m.
Jackson's platelet count is much improved but still not high enough for chemo. It has been postponed until next Thursday (the 7th). There is a blessing in that because if we had stayed on schedule, he would have gotten chemo right before Christmas! Now it will be a week later.
November 28th, 2006
10:30 p.m.
We had to take Jackson to the clinic yesterday because his platelet count was extremely low. He is covered with bruises. They gave him 3 units of platelets. His white count is fine so we were able to stop the Neupogen shots. YIPPEE!!!
November 26th, 2006
7:30 p.m.
Jackson is doing great and is eating normally now and has lots of energy. His 8th chemo is coming up on Thursday. Hopefully there will be only 3 more after that!
November 21st, 2006
10:00 p.m.
We were able to come home from the hospital tonight and the first thing Jackson wanted was chips and salsa! We are thrilled that he is eating again. They didn't find any reason for his nausea and vomiting other than possibly a virus. He did get a blood transfusion today before he came home. They were surprised he hadn't needed one before now as it is common with chemo. Hopefully he will start feeling like himself again soon! We are planning a quiet Thanksgiving at home this year.
November 20th, 2006
11:30 p.m.
Jackson still isn't eating but his tests have shown that he does not have an infection. The only thing he will eat is popcorn. His platelet count was low this morning so he was given platelets. Please pray that he is able to eat soon as he is losing weight.
November 18th, 2006
8:00 p.m.
Jackson has not felt well this week and yesterday developed a fever. We took him to the emergency room and after being there all night and most of today, a room was finally available for him. The doctors aren't sure what is going on but did some cultures to see if he has an infection. They went ahead and put him on antibiotics while we wait for the culture results. We will keep you posted when we have more news.
November 11th, 2006
11:00 a.m.
Jackson is doing great with his treatments. Only one more to go this evening and then we can head home tonight. His MRI (on the 2nd) was normal, praise God. He actually loves being in the hospital and does not want to leave! There is so much for him to play with here. He doesn't have a fish pond at home :)
November 9th, 2006
10:00 a.m.
Jackson goes to the hospital today for his chemo which he missed last week due to his count being too low. We are believing for another good experience since he didn't get sick once the last time!
November 3rd, 2006
11:50 p.m.
Jackson's blood counts came back a little low today so his chemo has been postponed until next Thursday. He feels great and we're sure he doesn't mind the delay :) Thank you for your continuous support.
November 2nd, 2006
11:30 p.m.
Jackson did great with his MRI today. Tomorrow he will have his hearing test and then be admitted to the hospital for his 3 days of chemo. It's wonderful not to have to put him through the lumbar puncture this time.
October 19th, 2006
11:00 p.m.
We forgot to mention with our last update that Jackson's next chemo is scheduled for November 3rd. Also, we have no doubt that you join us in prayer for little Ryan Carrigan, whose Mom signed Jackson's guestbook yesterday. Ryan is 4 years old and had a brain tumor removed last week. Hang in there Ryan! Jackson is living proof of the power of prayer!
October 17th, 2006
9:00 p.m.
We got wonderful news today from Jackson's oncologist! He feels very comfortable with Jackson's progress and doesn't feel he needs to continue to have the lumbar punctures on a regular basis. He was having them done before every third chemo. So that's one less thing he has to go through.
October 15th, 2006
11:00 p.m.
Jackson was able to come home from the hospital last night. He did great and didn't get sick not even once! Praise God!!!!!
October 8th, 2006
3:00 p.m.
Jackson's next round of chemo starts on October 12th. He is doing great and was able to go to the park today after Church. It was wonderful for him to be able to get out of the house for a while!
September 24th, 2006
7:40 a.m.
We are praising God that Jackson is doing so well after his ordeal with the infection! After 5 days of antibiotics, he was able to do his 3 days of chemo beginning Tuesday evening and didn't get sick even once. He came home on Friday and is very active. He is still getting antibiotics through his port but the last dose is on Tuesday and then we can take the needle out and stop worrying about keeping him from accidentally pulling the needle out while he plays. During his last chemo session in August the needle came out several times and it was very traumatic having it re-inserted so many times. This time it never came out once during his entire hospitalization.
September 19th, 2006
11:55 p.m.
Jackson has been in the hospital for antibiotics since Friday and is doing much better. He is starting his chemo tonight. We are hoping to come home after his 3rd treatment on Thursday night. Thank you for your continuous prayers and support!
September 15th, 2006
11:55 p.m.
Things did not go quite as planned today. Jackson's port became infected and swollen and he developed a fever. His chemo had to be postponed. He will be in the hospital to receive antibiotics. They drew blood to see if the infection has spread and the results won't be back for 72 hours. Hopefully it is just a local infection and we will be back on track with his chemo by next weekend.
September 14th, 2006
7:00 a.m.
Jackson's tests went well and the preliminary reports are negative for recurrence. He will go into the hospital tomorrow for 3 days of chemo and hopefully come home Sunday evening after the last treatment.
September 10th, 2006
7:00 p.m.
We just want to remind you that this is Jackson's 'busy' week. He will have an MRI on the 12th, lumbar puncture on the 13th and chemo on the 15th. Please keep us in your prayers.
We also wanted to let you know that Jackson got to see Thomas today and of course had a great time. Click on thumbnail.
September 9th, 2006
9:00 p.m.
We just added some new photos! Jackson is obviously thriving and has tons of energy. He still hates those shots and we hate giving them but we know it has to be done. He is such a brave little boy.
August 31st, 2006
1:00 a.m.
We have more information on our next round of tests and chemo. Jackson will have his MRI of the brain and spine on September 12th, a hearing test and lumbar puncture on the 13th, and then on the 15th he will start his fifth round of chemo.
August 26th, 2006
12:30 a.m.
We apologize for the lack of updates. We did not realize how much time had passed since our last update. Jackson is doing great. He entered the hospital on Thursday for his fourth round of chemo and made it through the first treatment without any nausea. Tonight he had his triple dose of chemo and hopefully will get through tomorrow without nausea. He will get his last dose Saturday evening and will probably get to come home after that.
He is scheduled for another MRI on September 12 and will go into the hospital on the 14th for his fifth round.
Mommy started her last semester of nursing school this week and is looking so forward to finishing in December. She is certainly getting lots of hands on experience! So is Daddy who has given quite a few injections since all of this started. Perhaps he has a new career opportunity!
Just so you know, we read the guestbook every day and find it a great source of encouragement. Thank you!
August 4th, 2006
01:00 a.m.
Jackson was able to come home late Wednesday evening. He had more nausea and vomiting with this round of chemo but now is doing fine.
August 1st, 2006
11:55 p.m.
Jackson's MRI and lumbar puncture are both negative for malignancy once again! The collection of fluid at the base of his spine remains unchanged and is still thought to be related to the surgery. The swelling around his brain from the surgery is resolving. He had one brief episode of vomiting today but has done great otherwise.
July 31st, 2006
3:30 p.m.
Jackson had an MRI on Saturday and today had his lumbar puncture and hearing tests. He will start his third round of chemo tonight. He will have treatments tonight, tomorrow and Wednesday, and if all goes as expected, we will get to bring him home Wednesday night. Thanks to all of you for your continuous support.
Except for the episodes of nausea during his treatments, Jackson is acting like a normal little boy. He still loves playing with his trains and also his new love, Cars (from the movie). You should hear him giggle as he plays. He has also been able to spend a little time with a few of his friends, which makes him very happy. We have to schedule everything around his blood counts and we treasure every moment he is able to be around others.
July 9th, 2006
9:05 p.m.
Well we made through our second chemo session very well. Jackson was sick each morning but it didn't last long. The medications for nausea make him drowsy but once everything is finished, he is back to his old self. We got to come home last night after his last dose of chemo.
Our next round will be a little different than the first two. Jackson will have an MRI on Saturday, July 29th, his birthday. We can take him home after the MRI. Then we return on the 31st for a very long day of tests and then chemo. We start on the 31st with another lumbar puncture. Then we will be going to the Bill Wilkerson Hearing Center for hearing tests (we're not sure why but we think that the chemo may have a side effect which affects hearing). After those tests are completed, we go into the hospital for our 3 days of chemo.
July 4th, 2006
9:45 p.m.
We had a great 4th and hope all of you did as well. We celebrated with a huge barbecue and then went to see the fireworks in White House. Jackson loved the fireworks and didn't mind the noise until the very end. He is doing great and is full of energy. We go back to the hospital on Thursday for our second round of chemo.
Be sure to check out the new photos.
June 22nd, 2006
11:30 p.m.
We are thrilled to report that the spinal fluid from last week's lumbar puncture is negative for cancer. We felt a peace about it but it was still there in the back of our minds. Jackson will still have to have MRIs and lumbar punctures periodically during his chemo.
His next chemo session will start on July 6th. He has recovered so well from round one. His red-headed temper came out today at the doctor's office but since we got home he has been a little angel :) Just say a prayer for the home health nurse who has to come and draw blood twice a week!
June 19th, 2006
9:30 p.m.
We are very excited because Jackson got to come home from the hospital tonight and so far, he has not been sick! He had a rough night last night in spite of medications to help the nausea.
We go back to our surgeon on Wednesday for a checkup. On Thursday we go for a checkup and to have blood drawn at the oncologist's office. The path report on the lumbar puncture fluid should be back by then.
June 18th, 2006
10:30 p.m.
Jackson has made it through his second day of chemo. It makes him sick but he's a trooper and bounces right back. He misses all of his friends! He hopes to be able to play with all of his buddies very soon.
Mommy and Daddy and Jackson appreciate all of your prayers more than we can ever say. You keep us going by lifting us up.
June 17th, 2006
12:30 p.m.
Jackson did very well with his procedures yesterday. He had a lumbar puncture to rule out metastasis and the preliminary report should be back within 24 hours. His oncologist has compared his MRIs and feels the fluid at the base of his spine on the last MRI is nothing to worry about. He had his porta-cath placed yesterday also. He will get his first chemo treatment today. He will be getting chemo over a 3 day period, every 3 weeks. We will be returning weekly to have blood drawn. He will be on anti-nausea medicine in the hospital and at home and a Home Health nurse will come twice a week to give him injections to keep his white blood cells within normal range.
June 6th, 2006
9:45 p.m.
Jackson saw his oncologist yesterday. He had his MRI this past week (instead of waiting until the 16th). The oncologist had not seen the MRI but the report noted an area of fluid at the base of his spine. The oncologist was not certain of the significance of this but did not seem to think it was serious. He said the lumbar puncture (on the 16th) will tell us if the cancer spread. Regardless, we know that God is still in control and are ready to start chemo!
The plan is for Jackson to go to the clinic on Thursdays (every 3 weeks) to have blood drawn, and then he will be admitted to the hospital for 3 or 4 days for his treatments.
He is feeling very well. Our only problem is that he has become quite the night owl! He doesn't ever wind down. He is still going strong at midnight and would probably stay up all night if we would let him :)))
May 28th, 2006
1:15 p.m.
Jackson is doing great. You would never know by watching him play and hearing him giggle that he has been through such a traumatic time!
He returns to the oncologist for another pre-chemo visit on June 5th. He will have a lumbar puncture and MRI on June 16th to make sure the cancer cells haven't spread. His porta-cath will be placed on the same day and he will start chemo either on that day or the next.
May 22nd, 2006
11:50 p.m.
Jackson will have a porta-cath placed (implanted IV) and start chemo in mid-June. He will have chemo approximately every 3 weeks for 9-12 months and will be in the hospital for 3-4 days each time. The oncologist said he could not be in any better position since the surgeon was able to remove all of the tumor. We are so thankful for that.
May 19th, 2006
11:00 p.m.
Jackson is quickly returning to his normal activities! He is eating well, and of course, playing with his beloved trains. He can't be around other kids yet because the steroids decrease his immunity but that is only temporary. He can't wait to see his little friends again at Church and at Grandmother's house.
May 17th, 2006
12:00 p.m.
Jackson is doing really well. He is being spoiled by his Grandmother this week while Mommy is in nurse extern orientation :) We have an appointment with the oncologist Monday (May 22nd) at noon. We will keep you posted. We know you are still praying and we love you all.
May 14th, 2006
9:15 p.m.
We brought Jackson home today around 3 o'clock and he is doing wonderful! Right now he is sitting in the middle of the floor playing with his trains. We don't mind a bit that they are scattered all over the house :) We are so thankful to have him home and tumor-free!
We will be calling in the morning to make our appointment to see the oncologist in 2 weeks. We really don't know what to expect from that visit but God is seeing us through each and every day. If he needs chemo, we will get through that as well. We can't say thank you enough for your prayers and support. We see the results of those prayers every single day.
May 13th, 2006
5:00 p.m.
Jackson is doing great. We are so excited to be able to take him home tomorrow. We appreciate your prayers so much. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we learn and deal with what lies ahead.
We were able to read the guestbook last night for the first time since we brought him for surgery on Thursday and we are so uplifted by your messages! The grandparents don't have computers but are receiving printed copies of your messages and have found a great source of strength in them. Thank you all!
May 12th, 2006
7:00 p.m.
The surgeon got all of Jackson's tumor out this time! Praise God! His MRI is clear. Now it is a matter of healing, and then moving on to the next step. The oncologist came by this afternoon but had not seen the MRI. He wants to review it and from what we understood, he will see Jackson in a couple of weeks.
Jackson is a little irritable but happy to be out of PICU and in his own room. He doesn't appear to be as sensitive to light and sound as he was the first time :)
May 12th, 2006
1:00 p.m.
Jackson had a little bit of a rough night because he couldn't keep fluids down but he is much better now. He has had some water and milk and tolerated that well. He will be moving to a room later this afternoon. His face is swollen but not as much as the last surgery. We are still waiting for the doctors to come and talk with us about the MRI results. We will have another update posted as soon as we know more.
May 11th, 2006
9:55 p.m.
We are thrilled to report that Jackson got out of surgery at 7:30, much earlier than we expected. When the doctor came out to talk with us, he had a smile on his face! He is confident that he got all of the tumor though he did say there is always a chance that there is more that he couldn't find. Once again, Jackson woke up after surgery asking for Mommy :) Mommy will be spending the night with him in the ICU. If he is doing well in the morning, he will get to go to his own room.
Jackson is having an MRI tonight and his surgeon and oncologist will look at it in the morning and then talk with us about our next steps. If there is still tumor left and the surgeon feels it is safe to operate again, he will go back in. He and the oncologist will decide what is best. We assume they will tell us more about the chemo treatments once the results of the MRI are back.
We will give you another update tomorrow after we have spoken with the doctors.
Your phone calls, cards and visits, and guestbook entries have been a great source of strength for us. Thank you again for your continuing outpouring of love, support, and most of all, your prayers. We know that God is still in control and will be with us throughout the days and months ahead.
May 11th, 2006
2:30 p.m.
(By webmaster) Jackson's surgery got started late, at 10 a.m. He is doing well. The family gets an update every hour or so. The next update will be posted late this evening when he gets out of surgery (webmaster is going to the hospital). All of your guestbook entries from today up until this time have been printed so the family can read them while they are waiting. I know they will be encouraged by them.
May 10th, 2006
Jackson's surgery is still scheduled for in the morning at 5:30a.m. He has recovered so well from his first surgery and is very strong. Thank you for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers.
May 4th, 2006
Jackson's next surgery is scheduled for Thursday, May 11th at 5:30a.m. Words cannot express how uplifting all of your entries in the guestbook have been. We appreciate every prayer, card, phone call and guestbook entry and treasure each and every one.
May 3rd, 2006
We went for our post up surgical visit today. The neurosurgeon told us that the pathology confirms that Jackson has cancer. His tumor is a Choroid Plexus Carcinoma, which is very rare. He assured us that this is "not a death sentence". The plan is for Jackson to have surgery again sometime next week. The surgeon feels certain he can remove the remainder of the tumor this time. The surgery will last as long, if not longer than the first surgery 2 weeks ago. He was in surgery for over 14 hours on April 20th.
Once Jackson has recovered from the second surgery for approximately 2 weeks, he will start chemotherapy. We feel a peace about this. We know our baby is being healed and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continuous prayers and support. Jackson has us read every card to him.
We will post another update as soon as we learn when his next surgery will be.
April 28th, 2006
We have been calling the doctor's office every day but they still say the path report isn't back. We may have to wait until our appointment on Wednesday to get the answers to our many questions. In the meantime, Jackson is doing great! He had 10 fish sticks for dinner, among other things. He continues to improve every day.
April 26th, 2006
We are still waiting for the final pathology report on Jackson's tumor but he has had a great day today. His little face is still swollen and his left eye is still swollen but he is walking without any problems now and seems like himself again. He was scheduled to start physical therapy this week but has recovered so well he doesn't need it. He has been eating, playing, laughing, and sleeping well. He even insisted on going to see his Pawpaw last night! Mommy was already in her PJs when Jackson said, "Mommy, get dressed. I wanna go see Pawpaw!". We were more than happy to oblige.
His pediatrician has been calling to check on him frequently and just called tonight to say the path report still isn't back. His follow-up appointment with the surgeon is next Wednesday at 12:20 so please especially remember us in prayer at that time. He will have another surgery either the end of next week or the beginning of the next. Of course we are all praying the tumor is benign and that the second surgery will get it all but if not, he is a tough little boy and chemo will be just a bump in the road for him.
April 23rd, 2006
We got to bring Jackson home from the hospital today. He still has a little trouble getting around and the left side of his face is still swollen but he is happy to be home. And we are blessed to have him home!
April 22nd, 2006
Jackson has had a better day today. He can't walk very well but he is trying his best. We took him to see the train and the fish at the hospital. He really enjoyed that.
April 21st, 2006
Jackson went for another MRI this morning, then was moved out of the PICU and into his own room. He is doing as well as can be expected for a little guy who just had major brain surgery. He is sensitive to light and seems unable to ask for exactly what he wants but he is talking and moving everything.
April 20th, 2006
Jackson was in surgery for over 14 hours. He did require a blood transfusion. While a specimen was sent to pathology, the surgeon told us he feels it is cancer. Jackson did very well during surgery and when they woke him up, he wanted his mommy and a drink. That's a very good sign! He will spend the night in the PICU.
April 18th, 2006
Jackson had his arteriogram today and they were unsuccessful in clotting the blood vessels feeding the tumor. The vessels were too small to thread the catheter into. The radiologist said that this was a good thing because smaller vessels can't bleed as fast. Surgery is still scheduled for Thursday.
April 17th, 2006
We saw the surgeon today and he reviewed the MRI Jackson had done this morning. He agrees with the doctor who diagnosed Jackson with a choroid plexus tumor. Since this is a very vascular tumor, the surgeon wants to do an arteriogram and the radiologist will attempt to clot off the blood vessels going to the tumor. Jackson will then have surgery on Thursday.
April 14th, 2006
We took Jackson to the emergency room after noticing that he was becoming lethargic at the zoo. We had noticed over the past few weeks that his behavior and demeanor were changing and just a few days ago, we took him to the doctor after noticing that his left eye wasn't moving exactly with the right. In the ER, Jackson was seen by four doctors. The fourth doctor ordered a CT scan which showed a large tumor. He called it a choroid plexus tumor and said Jackson would need surgery. He was admitted to the hospital for steroid therapy to decrease the swelling around his brain. The surgeon is out of town until Monday.