It has been way too long since I last posted anything about my grandson Andrew. It seems when things go well, there really isn't much to write about. He is doing extemely well right now. For that we are very thankful.
His most recent MRI was clear with no evidence of disease. He also had a full neuropsychological evaluation at that time and we are happy to report that he is at or above his age level on all congnitive areas. He continues to show improvement in his gross motor skills and his voice quality and swallow have shown improvements as well. All extemely positive signs. He does have some minor loss of high frequency hearing but with what he has been through, that is to be expected.
Looking back at the deep dark days shortly after Andrew was diagnosed with AT/RT and a rather bleak prognosis, one thing has stood out for me above all others. I remember sitting in the hospital room and my daughter-in-law was talking about goals and what needed to happen. Short term goals were very apparent as he needed numerous treatments, surgeries and medical procedures. She mentioned a long term goal of his making it to be able to attend kindergarten. That fall day back in 2007, that seems like such long odds and extremely optimistic. But being a goal oriented person, it stuck with me and now that day is on the horizon.
September 6th, 2011 Andrew will answer the school bell for opening day of kindergarten. In thinking back over the last 4 years, a lot has happened to my family. The normal birthdays, anniversaries and celebrations continue on and so many of folks have followed along on Andrews journey.
Andrew has developed a real fascination for all things dealing with cars. Checking out the engine, looking over the interior, and especially inspecting the keys. He has amassed a key collection and key fobs that would rival a large car dealership. He takes them to pre-school and shares with his friends and classmates, or anyone else who will listen, about his Chevy, VW, Nissan, etc..... My son and daughter-in-law don't have those types of vehicles.
When dealing with cancer it seems your life is touched by many wonderful people and charitable organizations. The first summer after Andrews diagnosis, they took him to the Michigan Ride for kids. It is a motorcycle ride benefitting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. Andrew had a great time and our family came away with a feeling of awe and humility, deeply touched by the people who were giving their time and effort to raise money to fund research for children with brain tumors.
For the first time the Padfield family has decided to get off of the sidelines and participate in this wonderful cause. This charity is near and dear to our hearts, and we believe that making a difference in saving childrens lives is one of our priorities. There are a number of ways to make a difference in our lifetime, and this one is very important to us.
It is unconfortable to ask for money but we are doing something a little different. Since Andrew is into keys and key fobs, we are asking anyone to donate to us old keys or fobs that are lying around the house. In turn, our family will be donating $1 per key and $3 per fob to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation in Andrews honor.
In addition to this, you are invited to the 2011 Motor Mania Party. It will be held at my son and daughter-in-laws house (Detroit area) on Sunday August 21st from 11 AM to 7 PM. Any donations collected that day will also be donated for the cause. There will be a day of fun, games and activities for the kids with food and drinks being served as well. All are invited and all are welcome. Please PM me for directions as well as an address to send any keys or fobs. If you are so inclined, I will also provide you with the website for direct donations as well. Just let me know.
So many strangers have entered our lives during this time and have become friends, even though many we have never met. We continue to meet people who have followed along on Andrews journey and say thank you for ytour friendship. We appreciate your thoughts, encouragement, generosity and prayers.
I apologize for the book here, but it has been awhile and I needed to catch up. We look forward to any and all on the 21st. We continue to Dream, Hope, Believe.
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Al Soran, Checker'd Past, Danny Burton, Derek Fisher, Dirtfan, dirtnonwingfan, FishBurger, Gregg, I Miss Manzy, interpreter66, jim goerge, mod4s, Pat O'Connor Fan, PJ Wright, racegal, ronmil, SHORTBUS, TeamCGR, Tim Watson, Wayne Davis
Mike, it has been far too long since we last chatted in person (the 'Burg, near the steps leading to the great Section A gang), and I really need to get to some races. However, I have used IOW to follow along with your Andrew Updates (and a racing event or two :2.
PM to follow.
Mike I was just about to ask about Andrew. I am so happy he is comeing along and doing so well. Please don:t wait so long next time to write (your so called book) about him cuz there are a lot of us on here love to hear about him. I;ll start looking for keys now and p.m. you later. I really wanta meet you, Racing babe soon . :2:
Mike, thank you for the update on Andrew, glad to hear he is doing well. You and your family are often in my thoughts and prayers. Andrew was on my mind allot this weekend, I'll explain why in a PM.
WOW, kindergarten is just around the corner for Andrew, the first day of school is such an exciting time in a little persons life. Hope Andrew enjoys every minute of school. PM to follow!
Super news Mike. Thank you for the update on young Andrew. Kindergarten is a big step on his road to recovery and an eventful life. We continue to pray for him and your entire Family..
Love comeback stories and Andrew's is a great one.
My friend Mike puts it all in perspective. Car counts, which track is better,which race is an instant classic, etc. don't seem too important after reading about this little guy (Andrew, not Mike).
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Please don:t wait so long next time to write (your so called book) about him cuz there are a lot of us on here love to hear about him. I;ll start looking for keys now and p.m. you later. I really wanta meet you, Racing babe soon . :2: