Ethan's Journey - Fighting Neuroblastoma
Donation protected
My name is
Ethan Alexander.
I was born
on July 20th, 2012 with a rare, cancerous tumor on my neck called
NEUROBLASTOMA.
Only 50 to 70 people (96% children) are diagnosed with Neuroblastoma in Canada each year
After a baby is born, most mothers have the luxury of lying in bed with their new bundle of joy, snuggling and drifting off to sleep together "“ but only hours after Ethan was born, his body experienced several life threatening complications and he had to be flown by the STARS Air Ambulance Helicopter to Edmonton for critical care treatment.
After extensive testing and observation, we were told that Ethan was born with a large, cancerous tumor on his neck. Called NEUROBLASTOMA, it is a rare form of cancer that mainly affects children under the age of 10. The tumor paralyzed the right side of Ethan's throat (esophagus and vocal cords) so he is unable to swallow or eat & drink. His cry is barely audible and when he is older, he most likely won't be able to project his voice loud enough to speak.
Due to complications during childbirth, Ethan was deprived of oxygen, which caused damage to the right side of his brain. Cerebral Palsy is the current diagnosis, but the extent of the damage will remain undetermined until he starts to develop more cognitive function.
***********UPDATE*************
As of January 1st 2013, after FOUR ROUNDS of chemotherapy, Ethan is FINALLY IN REMISSION!!! His final set of scans came back negative and he was officially removed for the Oncology service! YAY!
Ethan had yet another surgery at the end of January to insert a "G-tube" into his stomach for feedings, which means he won't have that pesky NG- tube up his nose anymore! While Ethan was in surgery, the ENT Doctors had a really good look at his throat and found that the right side showed no movement whatsoever, (due to the damage caused by the tumor) so the chances of Ethan swallowing properly, or being able to talk, are very slim. "“ We still remain hopeful that the miracle of modern medicine will come up with something to help in that department though!!! - The doctors are now focusing on coming up with ways to slow down the secretions so he will be able to breathe and not have to be suctioned as much "“ that should be the final step before Ethan gets to GO HOME, and stay home - for the first time EVER!!
We are extremely hopeful as we step into a New Year with Ethan in remission BUT he still has a long road ahead of him! Due to the throat paralysis and Cerebral Palsy, Ethan will probably require extra care his whole life. All donations we have received will go towards his continuing care and helping to make Ethan's life a little easier.
We thank you for your support, thoughts, and prayers.
Sincerely, Ethan and Family
Yours Truly, Ethan
Organizer
Shantelle Skinner
Organizer
