National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day

Senate Passes Allard-Clinton
‘National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day’ Resolution

Washington, D.C. – September 13, 2008 will now be recognized as “National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day” as a result of a Senate resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Wayne Allard (R-Colo.) and Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY).

“Never before in history has the dream of eliminating childhood cancer been so attainable, yet seemed so elusive,” said Senator Allard. “We live in a nation where the effectiveness of treatments and technology offer hope to children who dream of a bright future. Each case of childhood cancer is a very personal tragedy that can strike any family with children, at anytime, anywhere. In setting aside September 13th to recognize this battle on cancer, we continue of our efforts to draw attention to the victims of childhood cancer and the great work of the families and organizations who continue the fight.”

"We have made tremendous strides in the fight against childhood cancer, but far too many children still suffer and lose their lives to this illness. The more we know as a nation the better able we will be to prevent and treat the disease and help those who are battling and surviving pediatric cancers. National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day is an opportunity to reach out to all Americans with the facts about childhood cancer, and this day will be an important symbol of our commitment on all days to find a cure," said Senator Clinton.

Childhood cancer is the number one disease killer and the second overall leading cause of death of children in the United States. More than 10,000 children under the age of 15 in the United States are diagnosed with cancer annually.

www.curesearch.org

Rosie

Thanks for supporting the Rummage for Rosie/Bella's bake sale this weekend. Please keep Rosie and her family in your prayers.

For more info about NF:
http://www.researchforrosie.com/

http://www.carepage.com/ (Rosiespage)

http://www.ctf.org/

http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=194098

Lemonade Stand

This week Caitlyn had a MRI. The MRI showed additional tumor growth. Despite high hopes it appears that Nimotuzamab may not be the drug for Caitlyn. The nimotuzamab is an 8 week protocol so Caitlyn will finish out the next 3 treatments. At that time the family will decide what to do, keeping in mind what is the best for Caitlyn and the family.

In the meantime the family is doing their best to take one day at a time. They are finding joy in making Caitlyn's little wishes and dreams come true. Caitlyn has always wanted a bikini but Kara has always told her not til she is older ~ well Caitlyn got her first bikini when she went to Memphis and she looked adorable wearing it. One day she woke up from a nap told her mom that her "mission for the day was to go to Target," so they went to Target. She's always wanted a gumball machine in her bedroom ~ so recently after a visit to Chuck E. Cheese she and her mom earned enough tickets to buy one.

Sunday (5/25) ~ Caitlyn's wish is to have a lemonade stand.....If you are in the neighborhood drive on by the Churak's between 12 noon - 2p.

Thank you for all the prayers, and words of encouragement they really are appreciated. Please keep them coming as they are needed more than ever. Please especially pray that God provides guidance in the days ahead.

Thanks as always for your kindness and prayers.
~Margaret

Week 4

This is just a quick post for Kara. She has been trying to find time to get on the computer but with everything going on, life is a little hectic. She asked me to post something because they are getting ready to take a quick road trip this weekend. Caitlyn, Jackson, and Patrick are looking forward to visiting The King (in Memphis). The kids are Elvis fans and like to sing Blue Suede Shoes ("You can do anything, but don't you step on my blue suede shoes." )

It is week 4 on the nimotuzamab treatment. The doctors say that it may take up to eight weeks for results. So far there is not a change in her symptoms. She continues to have balance issues, and her walk is wobbly. She can get around a little bit, but mostly requires assistance especially going up and down the stairs. She is still experiencing double vision ~ and was fitted for glasses to help with that. The biggest side effect from the new medicine is that she is extremely tired ~ and needs several naps to get through the day. They are also dealing with Caitlyn's hearty appetitte due to the steroid she is taking (prescribed to reduce swelling of the tumor).

The family is so grateful for the prayers for Caitlyn. They have been blessed to have such a supportive school, parish, and community. Your continued prayers for the family are greatly appreciated. Thank you for caring about the Churak Family.

~Margaret