Reitan family needs our help!

November 2014 was the night that changed everything for the Reitan family. With all 4 kids (ages 16-8) asleep in their beds , Lindsey woke up to Shaun having a severe seizure. She dialed 911 and they were rushed to Mission Hospital . After a very long night of worry he hospital issued a CT scan along with a MRI. The results were heartbreaking.Shaun was told he had a brain tumor the size of a golfball. Doctors reccomended an urgent craniotomy to remove the tumor. Surgery day was long and worrisome. Pathology reviewed and tested the tumor and his final diagnosis was Stage 2 mixed Oligoastrocytoma, a very rare type of tumor. Oncologists at Mission Hospital advised immediate chemo and Radiation. Shaun and Lindsey along with the neuro surgeon  decided that they would get a second opinion.  Shaun’s case referred to the UCLA oncologist department. UCLA has continued to monitor the tumor with an MRI every 3-4 months. 
   As of 9 months ago the Oncologist at UCLA oncologists noticed a small area that started to  develop and grow.  After more MRI’s and continued watch the decision was made to refer Shaun to a surgical team for another removal. Craniotomy all over again! April 9th the family decided to move forward with the surgery to remove the mass. After surgery there is a possibility of chemo and radiation depending on the outcome of the removal. Shaun’s surgery is scheduled for this upcoming May. That’s only a few weeks away!! With both parents owning their own businesses the time off work required will be difficult . On top of normal living expenses, astronomical medical bills and all the traveling ,this puts a heavy weight on them financially. Insurance helps but with high deductibles and continued care  it is an ongoing expense . This will continue to be a long journey for the Reitan family. The future and the unknown is unsettling. We are asking to lift up the Reitan family in their time of need to try and eliminate some of the stress and worry that comes along with with such a heavy situation.  Thank you for taking the time to read their story and please help any way you can! Your time and help is much appreciated!  
From all of us on Team Reitan. 
 
   
- Shaun and I would like to thank everyone for their generosity,support,love ,positive vibes and prayers. The last 3 years have been crazy.we knew that the possibility of the tumor growing back was there and for awhile we had clear scans and the hopes that we were through the worst. Knowing what we are up against is overwhelming . We know that it will be a hard road ahead . We are so appreciative to have such an amazing tribe of family and friends who want to help and for that we are beyond greatful. 
Love from, 
Shaun and Lindsey