Tackling Brain Cancer - Florida here I come!
Donation protected
Jan 18/23
I didn't realize it has been since last year (lol) that I did an update. Time gets away so fast. I am happy to report they are doing great. Alden is getting his treatments daily and has weekends off.
I finally caught a video chat with Mike (our brother), Ange and Alden this week. It was great to see their faces and where they are staying...finally!
Alden looks so good; upbeat, positive and busy hahahaha! He was back and forth in the room while the three of us were chatting - living room, bedroom and everywhere in between. We were all laughing so hard.
His energy is so genuine and infectious. He continues to crush every treatment with everyone down, bringing them closer to home AND they're over halfway done! Thank you all for your continued support. Much love <3
Dec 30/22
It's Friday, the second week at the Ronald McDonald House a success and 4 treatments down with 28 to go!
He has been rocking Florida since he arrived, befriending people at every turn. It makes me smile knowing he hasn't lost his spirit and continues to thrive and shine bright! He's such an incredible kid!
Alden started his treatment on the 27th. The treatment itself lasts minutes, however, with the process and procedures in place for Alden, his treatment is longer. His appointment time varies, but once there, it's usually a 2-3 hour process. They put him to sleep because he mustn't move.
Once he arrives, they prep him for anaesthesia, administer it and wait for him to go to sleep. At this point, he is already in his radiation mask and body mould. There is a personalized module that is specific to each patient. This machine tells the laser beams how far and deep to go into Alden's body and lasts anywhere from 1-3 minutes. Once finished, he comes to, returns to his fun, silly, superhero self and carries on for the day. I don't know about you, but after reading that, I'm having a hard time grasping that it's a see you tomorrow type of deal; seems so intense and in-depth to me. Yet here he is crushing it 1 treatment at a time.
Ange was given the final date of treatment - February 8 2023! After that, a follow-up is scheduled anywhere from 3-7 days. Mid to late February is the goal to hopefully be coming home. Provided everything goes to plan and no hiccups along the way. Yay, that's exciting news to walk into 2023 with!
All the cards pouring in is so awesome. I love the trees Ange and Alden are making on the walls. I don't have a number, but I'm sure we're over the 250 mark easily!
Thank you Thank you Thank you - from the bottom of my heart!
Dec 16/22
I touched base with Ange today. They are getting settled into their home away from home. Alden met his primary radiation doctor today, Dr. Danny. Ange said everyone is so nice and helpful. While they were there, they did his radiation mask and made a mould for his body. It doesn't look like radiation is going to start until the 26th of December. Next week, Dr. Danny and his team are going to formulate the best treatment and care plan for him.
Again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for all the love and support. Much love Alden's Army and Merry Christmas!
Dec 15/22
They made it. Will update you soon. Thank you for your continued love and support!
Dec 14/22
Eve of departure; 12 hours and they're off...
This photo emulates so much emotion tucked in such a small and mighty package. I can't help but smile and shed a tear all at the same time! He truly is amazing!
I sit here with thoughts swirling on the eve of this monumental and life-changing departure; new friendships made, support from other RMH families, and proof, perseverance, and love know no boundaries. If I'm anxious, I can only imagine how Ange feels - don't read this, Ange; I am fine lol.
The love and support through the GoFundMe and Alden's Army have made the journey, to this point, bearable and easier. Ange, I want you to know how incredibly proud of you I am. I admire your strength in the face of such adversity. You've been - and will continue to be - a great support system for Alden, mother, caregiver, comedian and entertainer while you're away.
Again, thank you all for supporting my nephew kicking cancer's butt. Monies raised will be used for lodging, car rental, gas, food, general living expenses, bills, and entertainment for Alden. The outpour of love from the community and beyond is incredible. And we'll continue to pray and share words of encouragement, love, positive vibes and energy. We're in Alden's corner, and count the days until he is ringing that bell. Much love and will update soon!
Dec 13/22
1 day to go....and an unexpected extra day at home with family
What I thought would have been the eve of their significant departure is not. They'll be leaving Thursday (Dec 15th) out of Michigan, Detroit. No direct flights were available for the time frame needed, so Michigan it is. They'll fly out at 8:47 am and arrive in Jacksonville at 11:09 am. We have a family friend who has offered to drive Ange and Alden directly to the airport. It's great they found a direct flight, and so short too! A representative from the RMH will meet them at the airport and take Ange and Alden to their new home away from home. They received their passports today, which accounted for the late booking. Another small win, and we'll take it.
Alden has his first virtual appointment with the doctors Thursday afternoon.
Everything is falling into place.
I sound like a broken record, but I cannot thank you enough. All the donations will undoubtedly help ease the financial burden BEATING cancer brings. I'll save my sappy heartfelt post for tomorrow. Much love <3
Dec 12/22
2nd update: Still 2 days to go....
We have confirmed they are staying at the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) in Jacksonville - fantastic news, folks!
Alden's Army will be sending Christmas cards to him at RMH. Our goal is to litter every wall with cards full of love, laughter, words of encouragement and just how strong and courageous he is. If you'd like to send him a Christmas card, the address is provided below :) <3
Alden Charlton
824 Childrens Way
Jacksonville, Florida
32207 USA
Alden continues to grow stronger every day. He enjoys spending time with his family before he starts the next chapter of his story. Thank you all for your continued support. My heart remains full!
2 days to go, and I missed day 3.....
The Monday before the big departure. I haven't spoken to Ange in a few days, but I can only imagine a ton of emotion; some anxiety, nervousness, anticipation, excitement and being overwhelmed are being felt. As with most new things, you take them in stride and break them down when and where you can. Ange is no stranger to new things these days. I hope to connect with Ange today and see where things are.
Thank you for the continued support throughout our countdown, the reach outs, prayers and positive vibes.
Dec 10/22
4 days to go......
I blink, and here I am, typing the next countdown. Days - especially Saturdays and Sundays - seem to go even quicker. No new developments thus far. Ange and Alden enjoy the time together with friends and family before they're apart; Lawrence takes care of Addy, Emmy and Pax, and Ange with Alden navigating Florida, a new hospital and neighbourhood. A task that may prove challenging but doable. 'Fcuk of a fight, but it will be alright,' seems appropriate.
Thank you for your continued donations and support. Again, this money will be used for the expenses (lodging, car rental, gas, food, general living expenses, bills, and entertainment for Alden) incurred while in Florida.
Much love to you all <3
Dec 9/22
5 days to go.....
It seems the days are going quicker than usual. Before we know it, Wednesday will be here. We're pretty sure, 95% sure, they will be staying at the Ronald McDonald House, which is fantastic.
The hospital has a great patient intake/services program for international patients, with their primary job assisting new patients for lengthy treatment periods. A little background on Ange, she has never travelled outside of Canada, been on a plane or navigated a new city alone. Deep down, I know she will keep on, keeping on and do what needs to be done without hesitation - her strength knows no boundaries. I know patient services will undoubtedly be an excellent resource for Ange to have on hand.
I still haven't heard a response from The University of Florida Proton Treatment Institute about the Christmas Cards. I'll email again (as it's been 48 hours now without a reply). Mail doesn't go out until Monday anyways, lol
We've had so many donations come in, in the last few days; my heart is full from all the generosity from friends - old and new - and people just wanting to help. Our family cannot thank you enough for easing the financial hardship and unforeseen expenses of fighting cancer. Much love <3
6 days to go...
We are now 6 days away from Alden and Ange's significant departure. Alden continues to heal and be his happy self at home, enjoying the time with his family before he and Ange leave for a minimum of 8 weeks. It's going to be so different for us all. Darlene and Joe will miss their daughter and grandson; Mike and I don't get our sister and nephew; the kids don't get to see their mother or brother, and a father who will miss his youngest son and wife - it will be challenging, but we can do it. As a new friend said, 'Fcuk of a fight, but it will be alright!' I'm teary just writing this, as it makes it very real. Alden and Ange are two of the strongest and most resilient people. Their continued display of strength and courage is an inspiration to us all.
I cannot thank you all enough for your continued love and support. I have had a few people reach out with some fantastic fundraising ideas. Once we figure out the details, we'll share with the group the other ways you can help support Alden in his journey. Stay tuned. Much love to you all <3
Update Dec 7/22
7 days to go....
I want to take this opportunity to welcome the new members recently joining Alden's Army and visiting this Go Fund Me for updates on his progress and what lies ahead. The word is getting out there about his journey, and with the more exposure and donations, the more love, support and prayers, the more we can help Ange and Alden and alleviate the many uncertainties beating cancer brings.
Some BIG news....
Today we're officially starting the countdown to Florida. Ange and Alden will be flying out of London to Jacksonville, Florida on Wednesday, December 14th, where they'll begin the next course of radiation at The University of Florida Proton Treatment Institute.
The Ronald McDonald House knows they are coming, but it remains unconfirmed; we're hoping to have confirmation by Friday at the latest. Let's share share share and get that Go Fund Me circulating and continue spreading the word about our superhero's incredible journey. Monies raised will go directly to the family to help with the costs (food, lodging, gas, car rental, general living expenses) both Ange and Lawrence will face, together but apart. Lawrence will remain in Canada to care for their 3 older children Addy, Emmy and Pax. With the radiation schedule, Alden and Ange will stay in Florida throughout his treatment - approximately 8 weeks, pending no hiccups or unexpected complications. We're all praying for the best and smoothest outcome for all!
I have emailed the Florida Proton Institute regarding our Christmas Cards. I wanted to ensure that it would be okay to send them there. You never know. But once confirmed, we can send them by Monday; some could be there as early as the 21st! I misinterpreted Ange and thought Alden would be admitted; they're not. They go for his treatment and then back to their temporary residence. I should hear back within 24-48 hours.
Let's do this, Alden's Army. We're behind you every step of the way, Alden. You're an inspiration to us all!!! You got this, and we stand with you. Much love to you all. We are so lucky to have you all in our corner ❤
Update Dec 6/22
After nearly three weeks in the hospital, Alden could finally go home. They discharged him on Dec 3/22. Between the tumour surgery, the shunt, the side effects of meds, his tumour incision being infected and some minor leg pain, it felt like they were never going to leave. We know the radiation will occur at the University of Florida Proton Treatment Institute. We're all waiting patiently for the departure date. The support of the community, friends and family - old and new - that have come into our lives as our family navigates this courageous journey has been incredible. Our family is so grateful. Thank you, everyone, for your continued support and love. It truly is amazing. Below is the link to Alden's Army Facebook group, where updates and photos are also shared.
Monies raised will go directly to the family to help with the costs (food, lodging, gas, car rental, general living expenses) both Ange and Lawrence will face, together but apart.
As mentioned in the article in St. Thomas Today, OHIP will only cover the treatment itself; for all other costs incurred, Ange and their family are responsible. Once again, thank you to everyone who has shared Alden's story, donated, shared his GoFundMe, prayed, and sent love and support. It indeed does help and doesn't go unnoticed.
Thank you again, and much love, Alden's Army <3
Update Nov 22/22
2nd update: And just like that...another hurdle was conquered by our superhero! The doctor said it went beautifully. He'll have 2 little incisions, and tomorrow they will do a scan to ensure it's appropriately placed. Awesome. This should relieve him, and he'll return to his courageous and happy self in no time.
We still haven't heard from the hospital in Florida yet. I guess these things take a little longer than we want.
We're not sure when he'll be released from the hospital. Being his resilient self, let's hope it's sooner than later. Once again, thank you all for the continued love and support - it does work!
Alden was recovering well but had run into a little setback. Alden was extremely tired yesterday and seemed off. They ran some blood work, took a urine sample and did a chest x-ray to rule everything out. He had a scan today, which revealed a ventricle in Alden's brain blocked, requiring a shunt to be put in. He is also experiencing seizures which we believe he has been experiencing since yesterday. He's been very sleepy, having difficulty talking and just off.
He has been on the list for surgery most of the day and has just gone in. Please send all the support and love as Alden gets his shunt put in.
Update Nov 18/22
Alden underwent surgery on Nov 14 22 and was under for about 4 hours. The surgeon is confident she removed the tumour with minimal bleeding. Great news! He was awake shortly after, talking, able to move his arms and legs and on morphine for the pain. Our superhero conquered yet another surgery. His recovery is going well. He only stayed in the Critical Care Unit for a day and then moved into his room, where he'll continue to be monitored and recover.
In approximately four weeks, Alden and Ange will head to Florida, where he will start his radiation treatment. Unfortunately, his tumour did not respond to the chemotherapy; he doesn't qualify for Stem Cell Therapy, which leaves us with the only option - seeking radiation treatment in the US. We don't have all the details, but we should know the exact timeline by next week.
Monies raised will go directly to the expenses associated with travel. Ange and Alden will be in Florida for a minimum of 8 weeks providing everything go smoothly. I believe the treatment itself is covered (I will clarify that next week when we know more). However, everything else will be out of pocket.
We cannot thank our many supporters enough for all the love, donations and support. Our superhero is a warrior! Much Love!
Update Nov 13/22
Dr Zelcer (Alden's oncologist) met with the sick kid's board (after his initial MRI and spinal tap), and they requested clearer images to better scope the care needed to remove the tumour. The spinal tap was hard on Alden this time, but he bravely conquered this feat since, well, you know...he is a superhero! He suffered a few side effects that made him ill, exhausted and puking more than usual. Thankfully, the additional puking has stopped, thanks to his new medication; however, the cause is still unknown.
Monday, November 14th, at 8 am, Alden will undergo his third brain surgery in just over a year. The tumour is located below the cerebellum but more directly on a ventricle, requiring them to go through the neck muscle. It is also close - if not partially touching - the main blood vessel to the brain, adding more complexity and risk with the surgery. Still, we are confident in our surgeon, who performed the previous surgeries. And beyond grateful it can be done in London.
After surgery, Alden will spend three days in the Critical Care Unit, then move to the ward for an additional week of recovery and monitoring. Ange was informed recovery would be more complex. We will update everyone on his progress once he is out of surgery. Since Alden's tumour did not respond to chemotherapy, chemo and stem cell therapy are no longer options. He will undergo another round of high-dose radiation, likely to happen in the US, but still not confirmed. As he heals from surgery, we will have a better idea of the timeline and confirmation of where the radiation will take place. (Again, likely the US, just where)
Much love Alden's Army! We are continually grateful for the outpour of love and support for our family. Let's kick cancer's butt again!!!!
I can't believe we are here again...As many of you know, Alden has been down an unbelievably tricky road. He kicked cancer's butt, and he'll have to do it again. In the previous 12 months, Alden has undergone two brain surgeries and eight months of chemotherapy. He had his last MRI at the end of August, which was clean.
This past weekend, Alden had not been well, and sadly some of the signs were present from the previous diagnosis, which thrust Ange into action and brought him into Sick Kids. Our worst nightmare has returned; they found a new tumour in a different location. It is approximately 2mm in diameter and located in the back of his brain on or near his cerebellum. There is a concern cancer has travelled down his spine and spread.
We all have a million questions and no real clear answers. In the next two weeks, tests will be completed to determine where the spread has travelled, the prognosis and what life will entail into the new year. Testing starts tomorrow with an MRI.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/nz2k5a-aldens-army-tackling-brain-surgery-head-on?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=p_cf%20share-flow-1&fbclid=IwAR3U2B5lBsRYcuksC_ipEUuF6dPPzuCvtBjjglSXLLFjrnJpN5UGiewZ7cg
The above link is to the previous Go Fund Me that further details what Alden has gone through over this past year. We need more support, prayers, love and positive vibes from Alden's Army than ever.
I will update this page regularly to keep his many supporters, friends and family in the loop. I am heartbroken, angry, and confused as to why this is happening again in the first place.
In addition to updating the GoFundMe, we also have his Alden's Army Facebook Group for updates.
We cannot thank our friends and family enough for their continued support throughout this journey. All monies raised will go toward Alden's expenses for treatment and related costs. Once we have more information, we'll better understand the fees and costs.
Much love Alden's Army <3 Let's kick cancers butt again!!!!
Organizer
Cassandra Wilson
Organizer
St. Thomas, ON