GREEN FOR CHARLES COOK GRAY MATTER

GREEN FOR GRAY MATTER : CHARLES COOK ...

On May 9, at just 24 years Charles Cook, experienced a Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day: he was diagnosed with a brain tumor on his pineal gland. Pineal gland tumors account for less than 1% of all brain tumors and as a result, determining the appropriate course of action can be both tricky and expensive. The fear and shock from this diagnosis has been overwhelming for Charles, his Mom (Wendy), his younger brother (George) and his older sister (Katherine). Charles now has an incredible team of Doctors at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN and is headed there to begin a six month course of chemo treatments next week.

If one had to choose the best expression to describe Charles it is that he is a "Can Do Guy". Charles has demonstrated this time and time again: on the lacrosse fields at Lake Forest High School, carrying a full course load at De Pauw University, graduating and gaining a spot with IBM consulting and being the chief Cook in the Cook household! When his Dad passed away 12 years ago, Charles stepped up to the plate at 11 years old and became a stronghold for the family. Just before this diagnosis, Charles commented that he was in the best shape of his life: physically, mentally and emotionally. Charles remains determined, focused and deliberate in his dedication to defeating this tumor. In fact, he has said several times that he actually believes that he will be a better person for having gone through this experience. 

Charles' strength is not a fluke. His Mom, Wendy, is an incredibly strong woman who has dedicated herself to her three children ever since their Dad's sudden death 12 years ago. Like Charles, she would give you the shirt off her back and is incapable of saying no to any request. She is one of the most selfless people I know. Charles' diagnosis has shattered even Wendy's perpetually sunny disposition. It is clear that she is overwhelmed and frightened.

If the dictum: You have to be a friend to have a friend has any basis of truth, then Wendy and Charles Cook could jointly run for Mayor of the World! I know that many of his, her, mine, our friends will hear about Charles diagnosis and want to help out. There are numerous uncovered costs that will arise and any donations to help defray those expenses would be incredible and very welcome. Additionally, prayers, positive thoughts and warm wishes are truly appreciated.

I will keep all of you updated as Charles conquers this challenge.
XOXO
TEAM CHARLES