Support Ian Adams during Bone Marrow Transplant

Help Support Ian Adams during Bone Marrow Transplant and Recovery

Anyone who knows the Adams family or any of their three boys knows what a close, kind and loving family they are. Both Ginger and Joey strive to nurture each child’s individual personalities and talents and have instilled in Caid, Henry, and Ian the strong sense of community and care they feel for those around them.

When Ian was 14 months old, he began exhibiting symptoms that led to a diagnosis of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)*, an extremely rare blood disease. His parents worked closely with doctors to determine the best course of treatment to save his life. In 2012, Ian received a bone marrow transplant and made a strong recovery. He has since developed into a sweet, curious, hilarious 9 year old who plays baseball, climbs like Spider-Man, enjoys being a valued member of his Cub Scouts pack and is genuinely adored by his friends and family.

In late August 2019, Ian’s mother noticed some worrying symptoms and began the process of inquiring with Ian’s doctors to investigate. After several weeks of tests, it was determined that the bone marrow transplant (graft) Ian had received as a baby was failing. 

Ian will now undergo chemotherapy in preparation for a new bone marrow transplant. This process will require at least 4-6 weeks of hospitalization and then several months of recovery once he is able to return home. During this time, his parents will have to split time between staying with Ian in the hospital and being at home with Caid and Henry.

Ian has been incredibly brave throughout the past few months, keeping his favorite stuffed owl Hedwig by his side for many of the procedures and hospitalizations he has required. Instead of starting the third grade with his friends, he is being home-schooled between medical appointments and tests, and is unable to play baseball, climb or attend scouts meetings due to his highly vulnerable immune system. He has received several blood transfusions due to his bone marrow not functioning enough to make new blood cells. Most recently, Ian had surgery to implant a central line into his body in order to more easily receive medical care.

Even with health care coverage, there are various tests and procedures that have already been rejected by the insurance company. With many months of treatment ahead, we want to provide Ian and his family with as much emotional and financial support as possible to meet the challenges ahead. Ian is a very special kid who is part of a very special family. Let’s show them love and support in whatever ways we can. You can follow this page for updates on Ian’s progress throughout the transplant process. We are so grateful beyond words for your caring and kindness. 


*About HLH

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare but potentially fatal condition in which certain white blood cells (histiocytes and lymphocytes) build up in and damage organs, including the bone marrow, liver and spleen, and destroy other blood cells. 

HLH most commonly affects infants and young children. Certain aspects of immune function, such as natural killer cell and cytotoxic T-cell activity, are abnormal in HLH. HLH may be inherited (familial) or caused by another condition (secondary), such as infection. Familial HLH usually affects children under 1 year of age, while the secondary form typically occurs after age 6. A genetic cause is identified in most, but not all, cases of familial HLH.

ref:
http://www.danafarberbostonchildrens.org/conditions/leukemia-and-lymphoma/hemophagocytic_lymphohistiocytosis.aspx