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For the last 8 years, the Volpe family has been living on the edge...thankful for every moment with their beautiful son Carsyn after a hard-fought battle with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma left him with no evidence of disease. While he’s experienced side effects from the harsh treatments, including neuropathy and hearing loss, he has otherwise been living the life of a normal kid, while his parents waited with bated breath to surpass that 5 year mark that defines a cure. Carsyn loves soccer and all sports, is active and has tons of friends. He has the most incredible, infectious smile. He’s amazing.
A few weeks ago Carsyn mentioned his lip was feeling numb, then his cheek. Nervous, as any parent would be, but more so due to his history, they actively pursued the advice of specialists. The symptoms have progressed quickly and he has now lost vision in one eye. The doctors have discovered a tumor in his face, which is located in his sinus area and is pushing on his optic nerve. This weekend, he underwent a surgery to try to alleviate the pressure and obtain a biopsy. Unfortunately, they were unable to remove the tumor due to its precarious location and are now on edge awaiting the results of the test. However, the doctors do feel this is an aggressive cancer that is likely caused by the harsh treatments he received as a baby.
Bernadette is a warrior mother and an incredible woman. She has touched my life deeply throughout my personal battle with my son’s disease. Her countless heartfelt gestures like painting her entire swingset yellow for him, attending every Ashley Wade Foundation event to support Ashley and Jake’s Jammies, and the beautiful yellow wreath that still hangs on his bedroom door, are all constant reminders of what an extraordinary person she is. Carsyn is so fortunate to have her in the battle that lies ahead.
As we all grapple with the roller coaster of emotions surrounding this unthinkable situation, how this could happen to such an exceptional young boy and loving family, we ponder ways we can help. The doctors are already explaining that because Carsyn has taken the standard drugs for his first bout with cancer, they may now be using a combined treatment program of new and old drugs combined with novel approaches. This may involve travel at some point in the process. They are unsure how they will be able to manage all of this. During the last battle, Carsyn’s father was out of work for a year which caused financial hardship. Also, they still have to manage the care of their two girls in the process.
If there is anything you could spare to help them on the arduous journey that lies ahead, we would be profoundly grateful. We tend to feel helpless in a situation like this and want to do something. This fund will allow Carsyn’s family to provide what is needed, when it is needed.
Carsyn’s lucky number is 22. It is a sign of hope for them, so if you see this number appearing in your own life, please say a prayer for Carsyn, and keep him in your prayers every day. He beat this insidious disease the first time and he can do it again.
Let’s storm heaven with prayers for Carsyn and his beautiful family. Thank you for your prayers, help, light and love...
A few weeks ago Carsyn mentioned his lip was feeling numb, then his cheek. Nervous, as any parent would be, but more so due to his history, they actively pursued the advice of specialists. The symptoms have progressed quickly and he has now lost vision in one eye. The doctors have discovered a tumor in his face, which is located in his sinus area and is pushing on his optic nerve. This weekend, he underwent a surgery to try to alleviate the pressure and obtain a biopsy. Unfortunately, they were unable to remove the tumor due to its precarious location and are now on edge awaiting the results of the test. However, the doctors do feel this is an aggressive cancer that is likely caused by the harsh treatments he received as a baby.
Bernadette is a warrior mother and an incredible woman. She has touched my life deeply throughout my personal battle with my son’s disease. Her countless heartfelt gestures like painting her entire swingset yellow for him, attending every Ashley Wade Foundation event to support Ashley and Jake’s Jammies, and the beautiful yellow wreath that still hangs on his bedroom door, are all constant reminders of what an extraordinary person she is. Carsyn is so fortunate to have her in the battle that lies ahead.
As we all grapple with the roller coaster of emotions surrounding this unthinkable situation, how this could happen to such an exceptional young boy and loving family, we ponder ways we can help. The doctors are already explaining that because Carsyn has taken the standard drugs for his first bout with cancer, they may now be using a combined treatment program of new and old drugs combined with novel approaches. This may involve travel at some point in the process. They are unsure how they will be able to manage all of this. During the last battle, Carsyn’s father was out of work for a year which caused financial hardship. Also, they still have to manage the care of their two girls in the process.
If there is anything you could spare to help them on the arduous journey that lies ahead, we would be profoundly grateful. We tend to feel helpless in a situation like this and want to do something. This fund will allow Carsyn’s family to provide what is needed, when it is needed.
Carsyn’s lucky number is 22. It is a sign of hope for them, so if you see this number appearing in your own life, please say a prayer for Carsyn, and keep him in your prayers every day. He beat this insidious disease the first time and he can do it again.
Let’s storm heaven with prayers for Carsyn and his beautiful family. Thank you for your prayers, help, light and love...

