Donativo protegido
The day-in and day-out fight to beat cancer, yet realizing the blessings that come with this disease—this is Sean’s story . . .
Sean was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in May 2012, eight months after being treated for what doctors thought was bronchitis. He underwent treatment June to Dec 2012 and was in remission. Oct of 2013, cancer had returned. He underwent the grueling process of a self-donor stem cell transplant in Sept 2013, received the transplant in Jan 2014 and was released in Feb. In May, just a few short months later, he was transported from Bellingham to Harborview Medical Center to undergo emergency surgery to remove a tumor that had grown around his spinal cord causing paralysis to his lower extremities. Before leaving Harborview two more tumors were discovered. Radiation treatments followed.
He spent several weeks in rehab re-learning to walk and perform the daily tasks of dressing, self-hygiene, and being as self-sufficient as possible. He continues his rehab with a vengeance determined to walk on his own again. He is a fighter. Every day he continues his fight to beat this disease.
Many of you may not have known about Sean’s fight for his life. He is a very proud person. With his first bout, he and his family (Ayumi, Sienna, and Rizon) were very private; and did not share news of his health with many. Even through the 4-month stem cell transplant process, little was shared. With this newest fight, it became evident to his family and friends to convince Sean to let his community help him fight this battle.
On August 2, 2014, Sean’s 44th birthday, he shared with family news from his Fri, Aug 1, appointment at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. First, his doctor secured approval from a drug company that would pick up the cost ($20,000) for each dose (that his insurance denied); second, he was selected and is currently undergoing a cancer clinical trial; and third, his sister Marisa is a 100% stem cell donor match!!! This is what is ahead for Sean. These protocols are necessary to get the cancer in remission so he can undergo a donor stem cell transplant from his sister.
This was long awaited news. And truly an amazing birthday present. Sean said he feels truly blessed!
Blessings abound . . .
He’s had care from some of Seattle’s finest at UW, Fred Hutch, VA and Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Bellingham Cancer Center, and Bellingham’s Rehab Center, etc. Generous people have given him equipment to help in that recovery process. A friend built a ramp to his front door. Friends invited Rizon and Sienna into their homes when Ayumi was in Seattle during these many, many doctor visits and the 4-month stay during the stem cell transplant. And, many others have given their support, love and prayers.
We, his family and friends understood about community; and what it is all about. Helping each other in time of need. It just took Sean a little longer to understand to reach out and ask for help. This has been over a 2-year struggle for the family. Please help his family and Sean focus on his recovery and not the financial burden.
Any donation, great or small, is very much appreciated!!! Also, please pray and share words of encouragement. He’d enjoy hearing from you; and will help in his healing. He needs to know he’s not alone in this fight. Thank you . . .
Please pass this on and share with others. The success of this fundraiser depends on reaching as many people as possible. We appreciate your help in getting the word out by sharing on Facebook, Twitter, email, etc.
http://www.gofundme.com/Join-Sean-Checks-Fight
Sean was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in May 2012, eight months after being treated for what doctors thought was bronchitis. He underwent treatment June to Dec 2012 and was in remission. Oct of 2013, cancer had returned. He underwent the grueling process of a self-donor stem cell transplant in Sept 2013, received the transplant in Jan 2014 and was released in Feb. In May, just a few short months later, he was transported from Bellingham to Harborview Medical Center to undergo emergency surgery to remove a tumor that had grown around his spinal cord causing paralysis to his lower extremities. Before leaving Harborview two more tumors were discovered. Radiation treatments followed.
He spent several weeks in rehab re-learning to walk and perform the daily tasks of dressing, self-hygiene, and being as self-sufficient as possible. He continues his rehab with a vengeance determined to walk on his own again. He is a fighter. Every day he continues his fight to beat this disease.
Many of you may not have known about Sean’s fight for his life. He is a very proud person. With his first bout, he and his family (Ayumi, Sienna, and Rizon) were very private; and did not share news of his health with many. Even through the 4-month stem cell transplant process, little was shared. With this newest fight, it became evident to his family and friends to convince Sean to let his community help him fight this battle.
On August 2, 2014, Sean’s 44th birthday, he shared with family news from his Fri, Aug 1, appointment at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. First, his doctor secured approval from a drug company that would pick up the cost ($20,000) for each dose (that his insurance denied); second, he was selected and is currently undergoing a cancer clinical trial; and third, his sister Marisa is a 100% stem cell donor match!!! This is what is ahead for Sean. These protocols are necessary to get the cancer in remission so he can undergo a donor stem cell transplant from his sister.
This was long awaited news. And truly an amazing birthday present. Sean said he feels truly blessed!
Blessings abound . . .
He’s had care from some of Seattle’s finest at UW, Fred Hutch, VA and Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Bellingham Cancer Center, and Bellingham’s Rehab Center, etc. Generous people have given him equipment to help in that recovery process. A friend built a ramp to his front door. Friends invited Rizon and Sienna into their homes when Ayumi was in Seattle during these many, many doctor visits and the 4-month stay during the stem cell transplant. And, many others have given their support, love and prayers.
We, his family and friends understood about community; and what it is all about. Helping each other in time of need. It just took Sean a little longer to understand to reach out and ask for help. This has been over a 2-year struggle for the family. Please help his family and Sean focus on his recovery and not the financial burden.
Any donation, great or small, is very much appreciated!!! Also, please pray and share words of encouragement. He’d enjoy hearing from you; and will help in his healing. He needs to know he’s not alone in this fight. Thank you . . .
Please pass this on and share with others. The success of this fundraiser depends on reaching as many people as possible. We appreciate your help in getting the word out by sharing on Facebook, Twitter, email, etc.
http://www.gofundme.com/Join-Sean-Checks-Fight
Organizador
Jerri Check-Smith
Organizador
Olympia, WA