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Parker lives in Huntersville, North Carolina, and will be eight years old in January 2017. He carries an infectious smile wherever he goes. He is funny, silly, smart, serious and a fighter. Parker can strike up a conversation with anyone, whatever their age. He loves people and is an avid Carolina Panthers fan. He is strong. He is brave and we love him so much.
In his early years, Parker was diagnosed with mild spastic cerebral palsy. Recently, under medical advice, he underwent a series of MRIs, which revealed a tumor on his spine. A laminoplasty and biopsy were immediately performed. The pathologist and oncologist reviews along with opinions from Johns Hopkins and Duke diagnosed Parker with an extremely rare glioneuronal tumor, more specifically a disseminated oligodendroglial cell-like leptomeningeal tumor (DOGLT). His cancer, which seems to have originated between his C2 and T2 vertebrae, has disseminated all the way down his spine and up into his lower brain. Statistics show this type of cancer occurs in only 2% of children. At this time, his quality of life is good and he is not exhibiting many symptoms. The good news is that this cancer is treatable and our family is very hopeful.
Because of Parker's young age, treatment options are limited. Anything that could inhibit his development is out of the question. The cancer is wrapped around his spinal cord, and up into his brain stem meaning that any radiation would dricretly affect his central nervous system and his development. Over the last year Parker has been incredibly strong, and has kept an insanley positive attitude throught this process.
The family has recieved so much support over this last year from family, friends, and the Make A Wish Foundation. Last year he served as an honorary captian for the Panther vs. Steelers game, and continues to recieve support from the Panthers organization. He goes to all of the games, and has participated in practice. He has even recieved visits from Greg Olsen at the hospital.
Parker and his family have a long journey ahead of them. Facing this road with them are family, friends and a community from around the world that has supported them with prayer, positivity and a mantra of #KeepPoundingForParker. Allison, Jon and little brother Owen have remained steady and strong for Parker.
Insurance will continue to help with some of the expenses. But there will be other costs ahead. We ask that you please support our family on this journey. We appreciate each and everyone of you and your investment in this challenge.
We thank everyone of you for your prayers. The outpouring of love for Parker and the entire family has been amazing to witness. Our strength and hope is fed from all of you and we appreciate your support.
In his early years, Parker was diagnosed with mild spastic cerebral palsy. Recently, under medical advice, he underwent a series of MRIs, which revealed a tumor on his spine. A laminoplasty and biopsy were immediately performed. The pathologist and oncologist reviews along with opinions from Johns Hopkins and Duke diagnosed Parker with an extremely rare glioneuronal tumor, more specifically a disseminated oligodendroglial cell-like leptomeningeal tumor (DOGLT). His cancer, which seems to have originated between his C2 and T2 vertebrae, has disseminated all the way down his spine and up into his lower brain. Statistics show this type of cancer occurs in only 2% of children. At this time, his quality of life is good and he is not exhibiting many symptoms. The good news is that this cancer is treatable and our family is very hopeful.
Because of Parker's young age, treatment options are limited. Anything that could inhibit his development is out of the question. The cancer is wrapped around his spinal cord, and up into his brain stem meaning that any radiation would dricretly affect his central nervous system and his development. Over the last year Parker has been incredibly strong, and has kept an insanley positive attitude throught this process.
The family has recieved so much support over this last year from family, friends, and the Make A Wish Foundation. Last year he served as an honorary captian for the Panther vs. Steelers game, and continues to recieve support from the Panthers organization. He goes to all of the games, and has participated in practice. He has even recieved visits from Greg Olsen at the hospital.
Parker and his family have a long journey ahead of them. Facing this road with them are family, friends and a community from around the world that has supported them with prayer, positivity and a mantra of #KeepPoundingForParker. Allison, Jon and little brother Owen have remained steady and strong for Parker.
Insurance will continue to help with some of the expenses. But there will be other costs ahead. We ask that you please support our family on this journey. We appreciate each and everyone of you and your investment in this challenge.
We thank everyone of you for your prayers. The outpouring of love for Parker and the entire family has been amazing to witness. Our strength and hope is fed from all of you and we appreciate your support.
Organizer and beneficiary
Allison Cowherd
Beneficiary