Monday, June 14, 2010

heartbreaking


This post may be short.  we'll see which runs out first.  My patience or this shitty internet connection.  Both are at dangerously low levels. 

Matthew is doing as well as can be expected.  He had an MRI this morning and this evening had a bone marrow also had a port installed in his head.  The bandage used matches his slippers.  The purpose of the bad ass slippers and bandage is to basicly instill a sense of fear into the other sick kids through intimidation and otherwise unruliness.  In all seriousness, he looks hilarious in them and he loves them and they are kind of kick ass looking.

I am not going to get into specifics here other than to say that there is very little history to go on given what is happening to Matthew.  The odds of recovery are low.  He needs a stem cell transplant.  That is an absolute 100% certainty. But to get there, he needs to first get into remission.  We are running out of drugs to try to accomplish that.  We have a few more weapons to try and we're not giving up.  Nicole is amazing and the way she advocates for Matthew is unreal...even for a mom.  Claire does not know what is happening at this point.  She is going to be crushed.  She loves her little brudder so much and recently revealed to Nicole that she wanted to marry Matthew. 

I waited 6 seconds for the photos to upload but they didn't so I gave up.  I will post them tomorrow. 

updated 4:25 am....
Matthew's Ommaya reservoir

Matthew's slippers
In the PICU


16 comments:

Garbis Grapevine said...

I pray that god will give you guys a miracle.

Melinda said...

I'm praying with all my might!

Ellen Keeler said...

I am so sorry the cancer came back. Tears are running down my face. Miracles do happen though. I'm praying you get your miracle soon. God bless Matthew, you, Claire, and my sweet strong friend Nicole. Keep up the fight. What amazing parents you are. I'm in awe everyday watching you guys.

Ellen

Kelly Killion said...

You are all in my prayers!

Unknown said...

My prayers are with you all!

Keegan Brian Glynn said...

Praying for you guys. Matthew is a very strong brave little boy!

The Maines Family Blog said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
The Maines Family Blog said...

Our families have not met yet I have followed your story through the Bottarelli's blog. My heart is breaking for you all! I can't begin to imagine!
I want you to know you are in my daily prayers! I believe in the power of prayer and miracles! Sending them both your way!!!

Kellie-Jo Angone said...

I am so sorry to hear this news. I am praying for Matthew with every ounce of my being. I believe in miracles and if anyone is due for one it is Matthew. Kellie-Jo

Peg Baker said...

Dear Gene and Nicole,
Michael and I are reading this with so much sadness. We are renewing our prayers for him and your family. Please tell us at any time if there is anything at all we can do. We can be there for you at any time.
We love you all,

Peg and Michael

amy said...

Just wanted to let you guys know that I'm thinking of you and praying for Matthew. I really can not even imagine what you are going through. I know it is extremely scary... but it is important not to lose hope! Matthew is a strong little fighter... and this battle is not over yet! If you ever need anything (especially a shoulder to cry on), you can always come to 4west- we are all here for you and love your family very much!! I hope you were able to move back "home" to 4 west tonight- we can't let those PICU nurses hog you!

Kathy said...

We don't know what to say. We keep saying prayers throughout the day. Hugs and Kisses to Matthew. He is one strong little guy.

Naseem Wenzel said...

Thinking about you guys and praying for you.

Anonymous said...

Gene - We are constantly thinking of the four of you and praying. That is all I can say besides we are here for you for whatever you guys may need.

Don & Steph

Anonymous said...

We cannot tell you how many prayers go out to your whole family. You are all amazing and you just keep up the fight. God bless you all and know our thoughts are with you.

Love,

The Roberts Family

Michelle said...

Gene & Nicole, I cannot imagine the emotional roller coaster you two are on. My heart is breaking, and I'm crying for you. I will be fervently praying for a miracle!