Kayden’s Journey

Megan Casey is organizing this fundraiser.

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Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) -"... a rare type of cancer that forms in soft tissue — specifically skeletal muscle tissue.." In Kayden's case, his left eye socket and sinus canal that affects his sight, hearing, and jaw range of motion. Kayden (9), was first diagnosed with stage 4 Rhabdomyosarcoma shortly after his sixth birthday, during the pandemic in early September 2020. After 30 weeks of chemotherapy, 8 weeks of strenuous radiation, and extra blood taken (he volunteered for studies to help other children), we received the news we had been waiting for. Kayden was one of the fortunate ones and went into remission.

Kayden remained in remission until January 2023. What was hoped to be a severe sinus infection, turned out to be the cancer. Each time cancer comes back, it comes back stronger and with a vengeance. Not only was this news devastating enough, but we were also informed there was less than a 10% chance of the cancer going away indefinitely. This time, Kayden's treatment plan was more vigorous. Our hero endured 8 cycles of chemotherapy, and 8 weeks of Proton Radiation Therapy "a treatment that uses high-powered energy to treat cancer and some noncancerous tumors.

During the duration of his treatment, Kayden was admitted to the hospital countless times due to health issues, delaying his cycles and prolonging treatment. Kayden's main struggle with chemotherapy was low neutrophils (they make up the majority of our white blood cells) and mucositis, which prevented him from speaking, an infectious disease in the lungs, a leak in his port causing his skin to burn and resulting in another port surgery, along with multiple infections, blood transfusions, platelet transfusions, and fevers. Kayden had always been a happy, silly, smiling boy nick-named by teachers, "Mr. Sunshine." Kayden has been suffering from (PTSD) from being poked and prodded, anxiety, and depression due to the medical trauma he has endured and has been seeing a therapist. Kayden's radiation left him with little ability to open his mouth and he was placed on a feeding tube for nutrition. He has been working with physical therapists to improve his mouth's range of motion.

In July 2023, all our prayers were answered, and against all odds, our hero had beaten this nasty cancer, again! There was no better way to celebrate Kayden's 9th birthday. Things were starting to look up and we were excited for the future. Kayden was about to return to school in person, he had more energy to go outside and play with his friends, had more confidence to interact with peers, grew a full head of curls, had his first sleepover, got his perk back, and was even strong enough to beat up his (not so little) brother. Being home allowed Kayden to reconnect and continue building a bond with his family, friends, and loved ones. All scans came back clear, the last being in October and the next was set for late December. Unfortunately, an MRI was needed sooner than we anticipated.

Saturday, December 09, Kayden described having pressure in his left nostril. The next few days, Megan noticed severe swelling on Kayden's left side and looked inside his nose. It looked as if the dead matter from the tumor was trying to rid itself from his body. What we thought was positive news quickly turned out to be the worst. The doctor explained, if the tumor was coming out, something was growing and pushing it out. They suggested the soonest available MRI to determine the next step. Kayden's original MRI was switched to Thursday, December 14. The following morning the results came in. The cancer is back, it has grown significantly within a couple of months. (was (inactive) 3.1x 4.6 x 3.6 cm currently (active) 3.9 x 5.4 x 5.5 cm. Over the weekend, Kayden experienced bloody noses, more inflammation, and the tumor progressively protruding. Concerned, Megan reached out to the doctors who recommended going to their ER, getting him admitted, and doing a surgery/biopsy. Luckily, Kayden is not experiencing any pain or discomfort and remains smiling. He is most upset about losing his hair again.

As of now, Kayden and Megan are still admitted to the hospital for observation, Surgery/biopsy is set for tomorrow afternoon, and a projected release date is Dec. 24; just in time for Christmas. Thankfully, Megan's mom, Debbie, was supportive as always helping out with Abel and coming through at the last second. Also, want to thank Megan's ex, Tim, who given their circumstances, continues to support, love, and cherish Kayden and Abel as his own.

Future Plan: VCU has done all they can for Kayden, at this point. We are fortunate and thankful for their constant support, consistent communication, and amazing doctors and learning students. Kayden will be entering under the care of Johns Hopkins where he will be eligible for trials. Johns Hopkins has an entire sarcoma unit where they have more advanced resources, research, and equipment. Kayden's biopsy will be sent to their lab where we will discuss further treatment options most likely, after the holidays.

Kayden lives with his mom, Megan, and little brother, Abel, who will be 8 in January. Kayden still remains close with his two older step-brothers, Jacob and Landon. Megan is a single mother trying her best to support and keep her family happy, given the circumstances. She completed her Associate's degree in Human Health and Services with honor roll a few weeks after Kayden's first diagnosis. She continued with her CNA certification and passed the state boards in February 2023 shortly after Kayden's second diagnosis. Megan is the most selfless, caring, loving, empathetic, and fun mother and friend, she should be nick-named Miss Sunshine! Something she passed down to Kayden, was the ability to make anyone smile. Witnessing her and her family in such pain and sorrow has been gut-wrenching. Yet, she is still able to maintain a smile and brave composure for the sake of her children. Now that life seemed a bit more stable, she was in the process of getting childcare to pursue a full-time job. She currently works part-time doing in-home care, primarily with Alzheimer's patients. Being that Megan is Kayden's primary caregiver, she has been unable to make a steady income and is suffering financially. All donations will be used to alleviate the Casey's financial stressors, food during hospital stays, transportation, uncovered medical bills, necessities for both boys and herself, housing/shelter, childcare, and emergencies. Megan also expressed the possibility of wanting to relocate to Baltimore to be closer to Kayden's treatment as their lease in Stafford will be up in April.

Other ways to help: Words of encouragement and positivity are always welcomed. We are looking for donations of supplies such as toiletries, wipes, travel-size items, etc. We are looking to form a list of volunteers who would be willing to watch Abel when needed and/or Kayden so momma can have a break. We will also include a list of things Kayden likes so that we can spoil him with love and make his hospital visits a bit more entertaining. Please share and spread Kayden’s story. And of course, if you are willing to donate to help those in similar turmoilous times. If you are interested in participating, please let one of us know.

We appreciate you all for your continued abundance of love and support. We cannot begin to express our gratitude. Please, continue your prayers for this child and his family.

Sincerely,

Casey Family and Friends

Kayden enjoys:

-Legos (especially superheroes, batman, or Star Wars)

-Costumes (M)

-Cosplay props

-Imaginext (especially Batman and villains)

-Playmobil (primarily city-action)

-Fortnite

-Roblox

-Star Wars

-Batman