Our son Richie was diagnosed with Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma Stage IV on October 26, 2000. Richie underwent intensive chemotherapy and radiation treatment to fight this rare form of cancer. He beat the odds and was declared cancer-free in December of 2001. Unfortunately, on March 19, 2003 we received the devastating news. The cancer was back and this time in three places. It was revealed on the routine MRI scans that are done every three months. This time, it would mean chemotherapy, radiation, possible surgery and a stem-cell transplant. As our nation was going to war that night in Iraq, we found ourselves driving to the Bay Area to begin the battle on cancer once again.


September 2006 - Richie's cancer no longer stayed at bay and began to grow rapidly. He was sent home on hospice on October 5th. The cancer spread with a vengeance and claimed his life on Thanksgiving morning at 1:50 a.m.


Although, childhood cancer is one of those things that seem so absolutely unfair and completely out of the realm of understanding, our family is standing strong in their faith. We know that the Lord will provide strength and peace needed in spite of the storm we now face. Our family is surrounded by an amazing group of family and friends reaching out to us. We are so grateful for the support we have received and by all your encouraging messages we get on this website. Richie will forever be remembered for his courageous and strong spirit and how he handled everything that happened to him throughout his battle with this vicious cancer. He made an impact on everyones life he touched. He was truly a gift to us all.


New pictures on the "view photos" link up above - - and check out these albums -- just a glimpse of our summer fun.

SpiritWestCoast

JoshuaFest

Save The South

Journal

Wednesday, May 12, 2010 4:27 PM CDT

It has been some time since I have updated the page. It would take forever to catch you up. Thank you so much for all of you that continue to check the page and think about Richie. It is amazing that so many people still remember him and us.

We continue to miss him terribly but are also learning to live without him.

I wanted to let you know that I have started a blog at http://richinsparks.blogspot.com/ It isn't about Richie specifically, though he is such a part of who I am that I'm sure he will find his way into my thoughts. It is instead just some thoughts I am writing for my own benefit. Check it out if you would like.

Agian thank you for your faithfulness to Richie and our family.

Rich

Read Journal History

Links:

E-mail Author: ntwojesus@hotmail.com

---

 

Your gift will help millions of people stay connected with friends and loved ones during challenging times.

---

 

This page has been viewed 855091 times.

Note: The foregoing information was authored by the patient, parent or guardian, or other parties who are solely responsible for the content. Such announcements or their content are not necessarily endorsed by CaringBridge, Inc. or any sponsoring agent.  This information does not confirm that anyone is or was actually a patient at any facility.