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Friday, December 25, 2009 Thomas,
This is Christmas number five without you. Your family and friends miss you very much but know we will all be together again someday. We miss you so much and WE LOVE YOU...XOXO
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William and ellie ; )
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Friday, September 11, 2009 12:12 AM CDT Thomas,
It has been 5 years since your passing and everyone continues to miss you terribly. Today is no different than any other - we think of you many times throughout the day and see so reminders of the impact you have had on so many. We are fortunate to have Robert, William and Julia in our lives and each possesses so many of your unique qualities. We look to you to continue to touch and inspire. WE LOVE YOU THOMAS...XOXO
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William and ellie ; )
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Monday, July 6, 2009 8:30 AM EST Thomas,
This has been the fourth July 4th without you and we miss you terribly. Chatham and the Allenhurst Beach Club are not the same without your wonderful smile, but we all know you are always with us in spirit. We love you and think of you so many times each and every day and we look forward to the day when we'll all be together again.
XOXO
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William and ellie ; )
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, September 17, 2008 12:34 AM CDT HAPPY BIRTHDAY THOMAS,
Today is your 16th Birthday and we know you are having such a great time celebrating it in Heaven...Four years is a very long time, but for us it only seemed like yesterday...Words can never describe how much we miss you or how much of an impact you've had on so many people. We are so proud of how much of a positive impact you continue to have on so many people. People from around the world who never met you are inspired, your friends from St Pats continue to be inspired by your smile and it goes on and on. People live their entire lives trying to accomplish what you've done in just eleven years.
We are grateful that you are always with us in spirit and continue to shine your amazing smile down upon us.
We love you Thomas. xoxo
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William, Ellie
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Friday, September 12, 2008 2:31 PM CDT Hi Thomas,
Yesterday was a tough day for alot of people - but it was especially hard for our family. For many people, four years is a long time, but for us it only seemed like yesterday...Words can never describe how much we miss you or how much of an impact you've had on so many people. We are so proud of how much of a positive impact you continue to have on so many people. People from around the world who never met you are inspired, your friends from St Pats continue to be inspired by your smile and it goes on and on. People live their entire lives trying to accomplish what you've done in just eleven years.
We are grateful that you are always with us in spirit and continue to shine your amazing smile down upon us.
We love you Thomas. xoxo
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William, Ellie
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, April 8, 2008 4:49 PM CDT Hi Thomas,
It's been such a long time since we updated your Caringbridge journal but we think of you every minute of every day. Words cannot describe how much everyone misses you but we all find peace in knowing that you continue to shine upon us everyday.
We love you Thomas. xoxo
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William, Ellie & Pumpkin
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, September 26, 2007 12:31 AM CDT Thomas,
The last few weeks have been extremely difficult for all of us - the 3rd anniversary of your passing (9/11/04) and the celebration of your 15th birthday (9/17/02). We know that you are always with us both in spirit and in our hearts and take comfort in knowing that you're no longer in pain. We love you so much and look forward to the day when we'll all be together again.
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William, Ellie & Pumpkin
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, May 10, 2007 1:36 PM CDT Thomas,
We know that you are always with us in our hearts and take comfort in knowing that you're no longer in pain and waiting for us in heaven. We love you so much and look forward to the day when we'll all be together again.
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William, Ellie & Pumpkin
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, December 24, 2006 1:28 PM CST
Merry Christmas Thomas. We know that you are always with us in our hearts and take comfort in knowing that celebrating Christmas in heaven must be truly special for you. We love you so much, and know that someday we will all be together again.
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William, Ellie & Pumpkin
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, September 17, 2006 7:06 PM CDT Thomas,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY THOMAS! It's been two years since we've last seen your smiling face and miss you dearly. We feel you with us everyday and find peace in knowing that your spirit continues to touch so many people in many different ways.
We love you so much son, and know that someday we will all be together again.
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William and Ellie
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Monday, September 11, 2006 9:34 AM CDT Thomas,
It's been two years since we've last seen your smiling face and miss you dearly. We feel you with us everyday and find peace in knowing that your spirit continues to touch so many people in many different ways.
We love you so much son, and know that someday we will all be together again.
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia, William and Ellie
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Monday, April 17, 2006 10:36 AM CDT Thomas,
Happy Easter!
We know you watch over us every day and that your spirit continues to touch so many people. Through your foundation, you continue to help so many children and their families battling cancer - something that we know you would be very proud of.
We love you and miss you very much.
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia & William
"Inspire a Smile".
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, March 23, 2006 11:30 AM CST Thomas,
It's been a while since we last posted an update, but we want you to know how much your spirit continues to touch so many people. Through your foundation, you continue to help so many children and their families battling cancer.
We love you and miss you so very much. Keep on inspiring smiles.
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, December 22, 2005 1:25 PM CST Thomas,
It's our second Christmas season apart in body but not in spirit. Even though we continue to feel your presence each and every day, we do miss seeing your smiling face. We know that someday we will all be together in peace and happiness. WE LOVE YOU!
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Saturday, September 17, 2005 9:10 AM CDT HAPPY BIRTHDAY THOMAS,
Today, we are celebrating your 13th birthday and your second in heaven. Your spirit continues to touch so many and we know that you are always with us. WE LOVE YOU!
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia & William
Nonna & Pop Pop, Nanny & Hi Guy
Aunt Luanne, Marianne, Kelly, Robin & Margot
Uncle Tony, Ed, & Brad
Cousins, Kathryn, Sarah, Katelyn, Amanda, Kellianne, Emily, Maggie & AJ....
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, September 11, 2005 8:06 AM CDT Thomas,
On this, the first anniversary of your passing, we celebrate your precious life. Although, we miss you terribly, we know that your spirit is with us and continues to touch so many people.
WE LOVE YOU!
Mom, Dad, Robert, Julia & William
Nonna & Pop Pop, Nanny & Hi Guy
Aunt Luanne, Marianne, Kelly, Robin & Margot
Uncle Tony, Ed, & Brad
Cousins, Kathryn, Sarah, Katelyn, Amanda, Kellianne, Emily, Maggie & AJ....
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 12:51 AM CDT Thomas,
As time marches on, we continue to be amazed by how many people you have inspired. It seems like yesterday that we were together, yet it is approaching one year.
Words cannot describe how much we miss you. WE LOVE YOU!
---------------------------------------------------------
Purchase an "INSPIRE A SMILE" WRISTBANDS today......Go to www.thomaspeterpaul.com to order yours today. 100% of the proceeds go towards the Thomas Peterpaul Foundation.
---------------------------------------------------------
The Peterpaul Family asks everyone to GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE for someone truly in need. Give blood and become a registered donor. It's a simple way for all of us to make a difference.
Go to: www.givelife.org
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas achieve so much in such little time.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, April 13, 2005 7:47 PM CDT Thomas is just over ten months since we last saw your radiant smile. Everyone misses you so much. WE LOVE YOU!
INSPIRE A SMILE WRISTBANDS HAVE ARRIVED......Go to www.thomaspeterpaul.com to order yours today. 100% of the proceeds go towards the Thomas Peterpaul Foundation.
Thomas,
We LOVE YOU so very much and know that your spirit continues to INSPIRE SMILES.
The Peterpaul Family asks everyone to GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE for someone truly in need. Give blood and become a registered donor. It's a simple way for all of us to make a difference.
Go to: www.givelife.org
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Saturday, March 26, 2005 9:23 PM CST Thomas is just over ten months since we last saw your radiant smile. Everyone misses you so much. WE LOVE YOU!
INSPIRE A SMILE WRISTBANDS HAVE ARRIVED......Go to www.thomaspeterpaul.com to order yours today. 100 f the proceeds go towards the Thomas Peterpaul Foundation.
Thomas,
We LOVE YOU so very much and know that your spirit continues to INSPIRE SMILES.
The Peterpaul Family asks everyone to GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE for someone truly in need. Give blood and become a registered donor. It's a simple way for all of us to make a difference.
Go to: www.givelife.org
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, January 19, 2005 3:33 PM CST INSPIRE A SMILE WRISTBANDS HAVE ARRIVED......Go to www.thomaspeterpaul.com to order yours today. 100% of the proceeds go towards the Thomas Peterpaul Foundation.
Thomas,
We LOVE YOU so very much and know that your spirit continues to INSPIRE SMILES.
The Peterpaul Family asks everyone to GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE for someone truly in need. Give blood and become a registered donor. It's a simple way for all of us to make a difference.
Go to: www.givelife.org
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, January 4, 2005 12:15 AM CST HAPPY NEW YEAR
Thomas, we know you are having a wonderful time with all of the Saints and Angels in Heaven. Everyone misses you so very much, but we know that you are in a much better place. We LOVE YOU so very much and know that your spirit continues to INSPIRE SMILES.
During this time of giving, we ask everyone to GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE for someone truly in need. Give blood and become a registered donor. It's a simple way for all of us to make a difference.
Go to: www.givelife.org
UPDATE:
The wristbands samples have arrived and they look great. The bands should arrive by the end of January.
PLEASE BE SURE TO VISIT:
WWW.THOMASPETERPAUL.COM
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Saturday, January 1, 2005 10:03 AM CST HAPPY NEW YEAR
Thomas, we know you are having a wonderful time with all of the Saints and Angels in Heaven. Everyone misses you so very much, but we know that you are in a much better place. We LOVE YOU so very much and know that your spirit continues to INSPIRE SMILES.
During this time of giving, we ask everyone to GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE for someone truly in need. Give blood and become a registered donor. It's a simple way for all of us to make a difference.
Go to: www.givelife.org
PLEASE BE SURE TO VISIT:
UPDATE:
The wristbands samples have arrived and they look great. The bands should arrive within the next two weeks.
WWW.THOMASPETERPAUL.COM
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that people can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, December 26, 2004 5:31 PM CST MERRY CHRISTMAS
Thomas, your first Christmas in Heaven. We know you are having a wonderful time with all of the Saints and Angels. Everyone misses you so very much, but we know that you are in a much better place. We LOVE YOU so very much and know that your spirit continues to INSPIRE SMILES.
During this time of giving, we ask everyone to GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE for someone truly in need. Give blood and become a registered donor. It's a simple way for all of us to make a difference.
Go to: www.givelife.org
PLEASE BE SURE TO VISIT:
WWW.THOMASPETERPAUL.COM
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that anyone can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, December 8, 2004 10:46 AM CST UPDATE: WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Two more bone marrow donors from Thomas' drive have been called upon for a potential match. This brings the total number of donors from Thomas' bone marrow drive on May 2, 2004 to four. Out of the four, one remains active for a potential match for a 37 yr old Hodgkins Lymphoma patient. For those who did not take part in the drive, it's extremely simple to become a registered bone marrow donor.
Go to: www.marrow.org
During this time of giving, we ask everyone to GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE for someone truly in need. Give blood and become a registered donor. It's a simple way for all of us to make a difference.
Go to: www.givelife.org
PLEASE BE SURE TO VISIT:
WWW.THOMASPETERPAUL.COM
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that anyone can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Monday, November 29, 2004 11:53 AM CST Happy Thanksgiving Thomas...We are comforted to know that you are in a peaceful place free from any pain. You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers and know that you continue to inspire so many. WE LOVE YOU!
Mom & Dad
PLEASE BE SURE TO VISIT:
WWW.THOMASPETERPAUL.COM
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that anyone can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, November 18, 2004 11:03 AM CST WE NEED YOUR HELP ONCE AGAIN...WE ARE HAVING WRISTBANDS (SIMILAR TO THE "LIVESTRONG" BANDS) MADE. WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOUR IDEAS FOR A SAYING OR WORD(S) TO IMPRINT ON THE BANDS. PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR IDEAS TO: ROBTOM578@YAHOO.COM
THANK YOU.
PLEASE BE SURE TO VISIT:
WWW.THOMASPETERPAUL.COM
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that anyone can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Monday, November 8, 2004 11:06 AM CST PLEASE BE SURE TO VISIT:
WWW.THOMASPETERPAUL.COM
There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following acts of kindness that anyone can do:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas and our family with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
- Our loving family and friends
- St. Patrick Parish & School
- Chatham community
- the medical staff at CHOP, Robert Wood Johnson, Morristown Memorial, St Barnabus
- fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers
- strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Friday, October 22, 2004 1:11 PM CDT Back on May 2, 2004. A few mothers from St. Patrick School and family members helped organize a bone marrow drive in honor of Thomas. At that time, approximately 600 caring individuals throughout our community agreed to become a registered donor in the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
All it took that day was to fill out a short questionairre, and have a small blood sample taken - THAT's IT.
Our family learned yesterday that one of those 600 registrants was recently called to undergo further testing for a potential donor match for a 4 year old boy. There are many times during our lives where we wish we could make a difference in this world, and through Thomas, we became aware of the following life saving acts of kindness:
1. GIVE BLOOD - Blood transfusions are imperative to the survival of a cancer patient. To see how important blood donations are go to the following link:
http://www.givelife2.org/aboutblood/bloodusage.asp
2. If you have not done so already, GET REGISTERED on the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. http://www.marrow.org/HELP/join_the_registry.html
3. Last, donate to The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It's charter is to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and make donations directly to needy patients and their families. Please visit The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation site:
http://www.thomaspeterpaul.com
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
Thomas' Passing:
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm on September 11th. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
THANK YOU:
We cannot thank everyone enough for all of the prayers and support we have received over the last 18 months. Special thanks to our families, friends, St. Patrick Parish & School, the Chatham community, CHOP & Robert Wood Johnson medical staff, fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers, and strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, October 19, 2004 7:14 PM CDT PLEASE VISIT THE THOMAS PETERPAUL FOUNDATION SITE - WWW.THOMASPETERPAUL.COM
DONATIONS CAN BE MADE ONLINE WITH A MAJOR CREDIT CARD.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without Thomas, only time will help to ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of him - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
Thomas' Passing:
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm on September 11th. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
THANK YOU:
We cannot thank everyone enough for all of the prayers and support we have received over the last 18 months. Special thanks to our families, friends, St. Patrick Parish & School, the Chatham community, CHOP & Robert Wood Johnson medical staff, fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers, and strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, October 14, 2004 8:14 PM CDT ONCE AGAIN WE NEED YOUR HELP IN TWO AREAS!
1. We are currently seeking individuals interested to join our fund raising committee for The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. Please email robtom578@yahoo.com if interested.
2. We are looking for creative ideas/designs for The Thomas Peterpaul logo. We've been struggling with this for a few weeks and would welcome any input for those of you with creative flair. Please submit your designs to: robtom578@yahoo.com
All designs become property of The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without our son, only time help ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of Thomas - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
Thomas' Passing:
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm on September 11th. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
THANK YOU:
We cannot thank everyone enough for all of the prayers and support we have received over the last 18 months. Special thanks to our families, friends, St. Patrick Parish & School, the Chatham community, CHOP & Robert Wood Johnson medical staff, fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers, and strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, October 7, 2004 11:22 AM CDT WE NEED YOUR HELP!
We are looking for creative ideas/designs for The Thomas Peterpaul logo. We've been struggling with this for a few weeks and would welcome any input for those of you with creative flair. Please submit your designs to: robtom578@yahoo.com
All designs become property of The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation.
Thank you.
It is very difficult to move on without our son, only time help ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of Thomas - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
Thomas' Passing:
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm on September 11th. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
THANK YOU:
We cannot thank everyone enough for all of the prayers and support we have received over the last 18 months. Special thanks to our families, friends, St. Patrick Parish & School, the Chatham community, CHOP & Robert Wood Johnson medical staff, fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers, and strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, October 5, 2004 7:42 AM CDT It is very difficult to move on without our son, only time help ease the pain. Everywhere we turn there are reminders of Thomas - in music, in pictures, in our thoughts, but most of all in his brothers and sister. They possess the qualities that made Thomas so special. He was a huge part of our lives and his spirit will continue to inspire all of us.
WE URGE EVERYONE TO KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
Thomas' Passing:
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm on September 11th. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
THANK YOU:
We cannot thank everyone enough for all of the prayers and support we have received over the last 18 months. Special thanks to our families, friends, St. Patrick Parish & School, the Chatham community, CHOP & Robert Wood Johnson medical staff, fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers, and strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, September 28, 2004 9:48 AM CDT PLEASE KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
Thomas' Passing:
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm on September 11th. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
THANK YOU:
We cannot thank everyone enough for all of the prayers and support we have received over the last 18 months. Special thanks to our families, friends, St. Patrick Parish, the Chatham community, CHOP & Robert Wood Johnson medical staff, fellow Oracle & AT&T co-workers, and strangers from around the world who were so touched by Thomas' spirit. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for without all of your support we could not have helped Thomas with his achievements.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, September 22, 2004 2:31 PM CDT PLEASE KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
www.thomaspeterpaul.com
or
www.thomaspeterpaul.org
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. All donations are tax-deductible.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm on September 11th. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Monday, September 20, 2004 11:00 AM CDT PLEASE KEEP THOMAS' SPIRIT ALIVE AND DONATE TO:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
The Peterpaul family has set up this foundation in Thomas' honor. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services.
If you work for an organization that matches gifts, please forward the necessary paperwork with your donation.
Thank you.
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm on September 11th. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
GOD BLESS
Saturday, September 18, 2004 10:54 AM CDT YESTERDAY WAS THOMAS' 12th BIRTHDAY!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON.
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm on September 11th. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
In lieu of flowers, the Peterpaul family has set up a foundation in Thomas' honor - The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services.
In celebration of Thomas' vibrant life, donations will be graciously appreciated and can be mailed to:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
A memorial will be held on the beach in Allenhurst, NJ today at 6:00pm, rain or shine. Anyone who knew Thomas is welcome to join this informal gathering.
Friday, September 17, 2004 8:35 AM CDT TODAY IS THOMAS' BIRTHDAY!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON.
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm this evening. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
In lieu of flowers, the Peterpaul family has set up a foundation in Thomas' honor - The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services.
In celebration of Thomas' vibrant life, donations will be graciously appreciated and can be mailed to:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
Arrangements to celebrate Thomas' life will be private.
Tuesday, September 14, 2004 10:13 AM CDT Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm this evening. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
We are extremely grateful to all those who have showered Thomas with their with prayers and support. He was truly extraordinary and will forever be missed. In the last days of his life, Thomas was told of his fate. As one could imagine, this is the most devasting news anyone could ever receive. He dictated to his nurses, a special message to mom and dad and we were fortunate to have this special time with him.
Although he only lived 11 years, he accomplished more than most people could accomplish in a lifetime - uniting people from around the world in prayer. Our son was called a "hero" and "inspiration" by so many people that did not even know him. That is how Thomas will be remembered.
In lieu of flowers, the Peterpaul family has set up a foundation in Thomas' honor - The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. It is a non-profit 501(C) organization devoted to raising funds for pediatric cancer research and patient & family services.
In celebration of Thomas' vibrant life, donations will be graciously appreciated and can be mailed to:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
Arrangements to celebrate Thomas' life will be private.
Saturday, September 11, 2004 8:20 PM CDT
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm this evening. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..my son.
Saturday, September 11, 2004 8:20 PM CDT
Thomas passed peacefully with his family at his bedside at 9:11pm this evening. Our angel is now in heaven and no longer must endure any pain. Sweet dreams..our son.
Words cannot express how appreciative our family is towards all of the support and prayers that Thomas has received. All of the well wishes from around the world were so inspirational to him and throughout his ordeal he remained positive and never complained. Each day Thomas would wake up and say "mom and dad, I'm going to beat this disease," and he did. Thomas did not die of leukemia, nor did he die from his transplant, he died from a virus.
He was victorious in everything he did...beating his disease, uniting strangers from around the world, and most of all...showing everyone what a true hero is all about. Thank you Thomas for making us such proud parents and accomplishing in 11 years what many people fail to accomplish in a lifetime. We love you forever and you will always be in our hearts.
We have established a fund in honor of Thomas. All donations will go towards pediatric cancer research and patient & family services. The foundation is a 501(C) non-profit organization.
Checks should made out to:
The Thomas Peterpaul Foundation
PO Box 129
Chatham, NJ 07928
Saturday, September 11, 2004 6:51 AM CDT Thomas is Fox Kids hero of the week!!!!
Type in the web address below and look under the "What's Hot" box.
http://www.foxbox.tv/
DAY 48 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas remains heavily sedated and has been surrounded by his family. Our faith and support from so many, comforts us during this difficult time. So many prayers, so many people, touched by Thomas' spirit.
Whatever happens from this point forward is God's will and we accept that. Please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Friday, September 10, 2004 3:44 PM CDT Thomas is Fox Kids hero of the week!!!!
Type in the web address below and look under the "What's Hot" box.
http://www.foxbox.tv/
Thomas is overwhelmed by the number of visitors to his site. Thank you and keep them coming - 250,000 here we come.
One of Thomas' friends, Billy Bush from Access Hollywood, said he would mention Thomas' name on tonight's show. NBC @7:30 EST. HERE'S HOW IT WILL OCCUR...
He will send a subliminal message to thomas in the first block of the show. He will be in front of the video wall and tossing to the fashion correspondent in NYC who has like Ten names and he squuezed in thomas peterpaul - for those in the know.
Thank you to everyone for your continued prayers and support.
DAY 47 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas woke up at 3:00am in severe pain. He is now heavily sedated which will make him more comfortable. We had a special night last night with our family together. Thomas gave Barb and I a card he dictated to his nurse. It was a special moment we will never forget. We've been at a crossroad between letting go and waiting for that miracle and only time will tell. We do not have much time left. Doctors say they have no idea when Thomas will pass but they say it is inevitable. Our faith and support from so many, comforts us during this difficult time. So many prayers, so many people, touched by Thomas' spirit.
We ask everyone to pray to God for his healing touch.
GOD BLESS
Friday, September 10, 2004 7:55 AM CDT Thomas is Fox Kids hero of the week!!!!
Type in the web address below and look under the "What's Hot" box.
http://www.foxbox.tv/
Thomas is overwhelmed by the number of visitors to his site. Thank you and keep them coming - 250,000 here we come.
One of Thomas' friends, Billy Bush from Access Hollywood, said he would mention Thomas' name on tonight's show. NBC @7:30 EST.
Thank you to everyone for your continued prayers and support.
DAY 47 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas woke up at 3:00am in severe pain. He is now heavily sedated which will make him more comfortable. We had a special night last night with our family together. Thomas gave Barb and I a card he dictated to his nurse. It was a special moment we will never forget. We've been at a crossroad between letting go and waiting for that miracle and only time will tell. We do not have much time left. Doctors say they have no idea when Thomas will pass but they say it is inevitable. Our faith and support from so many, comforts us during this difficult time. So many prayers, so many people, touched by Thomas' spirit.
We ask everyone to pray to God for his healing touch.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, September 8, 2004 6:30 PM CDT Thomas is Fox Kids hero of the week!!!!
Type in the web address below and look under the "What's Hot" box.
http://www.foxbox.tv/
Thomas is overwhelmed by the number of visitors to his site. Thank you and keep them coming - 250,000 here we come.
One of Thomas' friends, Billy Bush from Access Hollywood, said he would mention Thomas' name on tonight's show. NBC @7:30 EST.
Thank you to everyone for your continued prayers and support.
DAY 46 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas' kidney function levels are still declining and are over four times lower than a normal. Doctors say they have no idea when Thomas will pass but they say it is inevitable. One could never imagine this when speaking to him. He has been told what lies before him (medically), but that everyone is praying for a miracle. We remain positive and our faith comforts us during this difficult time. So many prayers, so many people, touched by Thomas' spirit. We refuse to accept the medical diagnosis and know that there is a miracle waiting in the wings.
We ask everyone to pray to God for his healing touch.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, September 8, 2004 1:12 PM CDT THOMAS HAS MADE A REQUEST..
HE WOULD LIKE TO HIT 50,000 VISITORS TO HIS WEBSITE. IF EVERYONE COULD FORWARD THIS LINK:
www.caringbridge.org/nj/thomaspeterpaul
TO AS MANY PEOPLE THEY KNOW, WE KNOW IT CAN HAPPEN.
THANK YOU
DAY 45 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas' kidney function levels continue to decline. Doctors said there is nothing that can be done and only time will tell. We remain positive and our faith comforts us during this difficult time. So many prayers, so many people, touched by Thomas' spirit. Right now, Thomas is thinking about what music should be played during his dressing change and he is unaware of the magnitude of the challenge he faces. We refuse to accept the medical diagnosis and know that there is a miracle waiting in the wings.
We ask everyone to pray to God for his healing touch.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, September 8, 2004 9:44 AM CDT DAY 45 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas' kidney function levels continue to decline. Doctors said there is nothing that can be done and only time will tell. We remain positive and our faith comforts us during this difficult time. So many prayers, so many people, touched by Thomas' spirit. Right now, Thomas is thinking about what music should be played during his dressing change and he is unaware of the magnitude of the challenge he faces. We refuse to accept the medical diagnosis and know that there is a miracle waiting in the wings.
We ask everyone to pray to God for his healing touch.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, September 7, 2004 9:52 AM CDT DAY 44 POST TRANSPLANT:
Doctors have tolds us that Thomas' condition is worsening. One could never tell by speaking with him -his spirit shines through despite such hardship. His kidney function levels are getting worse, preventing doctors from administering the medicines he needs. Dialysis and transplant are not an option for someone in Thomas' condition. Noone is giving up hope but doctors also tell us that we should prepare for the worst. The nurses here have been amazing, his dressing changes (which take up to 3 hours), requires a crew of 4-6 people since it is a delicate process. Thomas makes everyone laugh during the changes. He even requests specific music to be played as well.
We ask everyone to pray to God for his healing touch and ease Thomas' pain.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, September 5, 2004 11:00 PM CDT DAY 43 POST TRANSPLANT:
Once again Thomas was surrounded with family today. His spirits are always high, but they always seem to reach a new height when he is greeted by his family. Despite his skin problems, medications and his obvious pain, he NEVER complains. His positive spirit amazes everyone especially under such difficult circumstances. Picture a sunburn, so severe, that skin immediately begins to peel off. Now picture that on your entire body. We can't imagine how much pain he is in and we are thankful for the pain medications, BUT Thomas is truly amazing. He continues to smile and talk about things he always love to talk about. He even jokes around about how much he looks like a mummy - he is wrapped in special bandages designed to protect his skin. It takes a team of six people to change his bandages twice a day (taking over 3 hours each time). There are such amazing nurses here at CHOP and they genuinely care for the children. We were blessed to have his aunts and uncles here today to assist with this process.
Thomas and family are coping with this difficult period in 12 hour intervals (no longer day by day) and know that only hope, courage and faith will guide us through this most difficult obstacle. Seeing all of the messages from around the country truly inspires us. We continue to ask everyone to keep Thomas in your prayers.
Thomas' skin condition has worsened, though one could never tell by speaking with him. Doctors have said that it will take a miracle for him to survive. He now has severe blistering on his skin over 90% of his body. Doctors feel GVHD (graft vs. host disease) is th culprit. They have increased his steroids to offset the onset of GVHD, but, at the same time, the steroids will further suppress his immune system. He has tested positive for three different types of viruses which cannot be treated due to his poor kidney functions. Without his immune system in place, it will be a matter of time before his conditions worsen from infection. We have yet to see this happen and are hopeful that the power of prayer and God's blessing will cure Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Saturday, September 4, 2004 4:28 PM CDT DAY 42 POST TRANSPLANT:
Our families have come to be with Thomas today. He was very happy to see everyone, especially his brothers and sister. Both sets of grandparents, all of his aunts and uncles, all of his cousins shared special moments with Thomas. Despite his skin problems, medications and his obvious pain, he NEVER complained. His positive spirit amazes everyone especially under such circumstances. Hope, courage and faith will guide Thomas through this, his most difficult obstacle. Seeing all of the messages from around the country truly inspires him. We continue to ask everyone to keep Thomas in your prayers.
Thomas' skin condition has worsened, though one could never tell by speaking with him. Doctors have said that it will take a miracle for him to survive. He now has severe blistering on his skin over 90% his body. Though skin biopsies have not confirmed GVHD, doctors feel it is causing his skin problems. They have increased his steroids to offset the onset of GVHD, but, at the same time, the steroids will further suppress his immune system. His blood did test positive for bacterial and fungus infection as well so he will be place on the necessary meds to combat them. It is all a delicate balancing act, since his kidney function tests reveal that his levels are high and not going in the right direction. But they have said that without his immune system in place, it will be a matter of time before his conditions worsen from infection.
GOD BLESS
Friday, September 3, 2004 1:49 PM CDT DAY 41 POST TRANSPLANT:
Our family has been devastated with terrible news. Thomas' skin condition has worsened, though one could never tell by speaking with him. Doctors have said that it will take a miracle for him to survive. He now has severe blistering on his skin over 90 f his body. Though skin biopsies have not confirmed GVHD, doctors feel it is causing his skin problems. They have increased his steroids to offset the onset of GVHD, but, at the same time, the steroids will further suppress his immune system. His blood did test positive for bacterial and fungus infection as well so he will be place on the necessary meds to combat them. It is all a delicate balancing act, since his kidney function tests reveal that his levels are high and not going in the right direction. But they have said that without his immune system in place, it will be a matter of time before his conditions worsen from infection.
Please, everyone, say an extra prayer for Thomas tonight and throughout the weekend.
GOD BLESS
Friday, September 3, 2004 1:17 PM CDT DAY 41 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas' now has sever blistering of his skin over 90% of his body. Though skin biopsies have not confirmed GVHD, doctors feel it is causing his skin problems. They have increased his steroids to offset the onset of GVHD, but, at the same time, the steroids will further suppress his immune system. Doctors are very concerned about Thomas' condition since every blister is an open door for infection and there are so many. His blood did test positive for bacterial and fungus infection as well so he will be place on the necessary meds to combat them. It is all a delicate balancing act, since his kidney function tests reveal that his levels are high and not going in the right direction.
Please continue extra prayers for Thomas tonight and throughout the weekend.
On a more positive note, Althea Hutchinson -one of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant fourteen days ago and is HAS BEEN DISCHARGED :) :)
She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, September 2, 2004 7:42 PM CDT DAY 40 POST TRANSPLANT:
Unfortunately, Thomas' blood cultures have revealed more problems he must deal with. In addition to bacterial and yeast infections, testing of his line (which was removed during a minor surgery yesterday), has revealed signs of fungus. All of us have bacteria, yeast, mold, fungus in our bodies, but a person with no immune system, like Thomas, has no way of fending them off. Doctors have also confirmed that Thomas has the adenovirus & GVHD. His skin is the main organ which is being affected right now, with red hives and blisters covering his entire body. Doctors are also concerned about his GVHD (Graft vs. Host Disease) so they are going to raise his steroid dose to fend off the GVHD. The problem with that is that more steroids results in less immune system - since steroids suppress it. There is a lot of things going on right now please pray for Thomas.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant thirteen days ago and is starting to have blood counts. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, September 2, 2004 11:43 AM CDT DAY 40 POST TRANSPLANT:
Unfortunately, Thomas' blood cultures have revealed more problems he must deal with. In addition to bacterial and yeast infections, testing of his line (which was removed during a minor surgery yesterday), has revealed signs of mold. All of us have bacteria, yeast, mold, fungus in our bodies, but a person with no immune system, like Thomas, has no way of fending them off. Dcotors have also confirmed that Thomas has the adenovirus. His skin is the main organ which is being affected right now, with red hives and blisters covering his entire body. Doctors are also concerned about GVHD (Graft vs. Host Disease) so they are trying to determine whether to raise his steroid dose to fend off the GVHD. The problem with that is that more steroids results in less immune system - since steroids suppress it. There is a lot of things going on right now please pray for Thomas.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant thirteen days ago and is starting to have blood counts. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, September 1, 2004 4:22 PM CDT DAY 39 POST TRANSPLANT:
Blood tests, which were taken when Thomas first had a fever, have shown that he has an infection in his line (broviac). Cultures which have cropped up revealed the infections this morning. Thomas is currently having his broviac removed and will most likely have a regular IV line put in his arm (something which he hates since his veins are so hard to access). Moving forward, doctors will most likely place a pick line in his arm, but must wait until the infection clears before doing so. He did have two fevers overnight into the morning hours and continues to be plagued with vomit/GI problems. His upper torso is covered with red hives (since Saturday) and doctors are trying to determine which medicine, if any, is the culprit. Doctors took a skin biospy yesterday from Thomas' stomache which required three stitches. Hopes are that this specimen will reveal the cause of his rash/hives. Doctors believe it to be anything from a drug reaction (since he has received a few new drugs lately), to Graft vs. Host Disease (GVHD). His kidney levels are slowly decreasing as well and doctors have said that this will take time. That's enough for one day.
On a positive note, his stomache cramps are less frequent.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant thirteen days ago and is starting to have blood counts. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, August 31, 2004 1:07 PM CDT DAY 39 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is having a good day today despite a new issue popping up. His upper torso is covered with red hives (since Saturday) and doctors are trying to determine which medicine, if any, is the culprit. On a positive note, his stomache cramps are less frequent and he has had only two fevers since midnight.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant twelve days ago and is starting to have blood counts. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Monday, August 30, 2004 9:04 PM CDT DAY 38 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas had a good day today. He had a CAT scan of his lungs and sinuses today and an eye exam. He was experiencing blurred vision in his good eye but doctors believe that the cause was from Graft vs. Host Disease (GVHD). Fortunately, his vision is not permanently affected. Preliminary reviews of his scans did not show any signs of fungus or infection.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant ten days ago and is starting to have blood counts. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, August 29, 2004 1:17 PM CDT DAY 37 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is still experiencing stomache/GI discomfort, but there have been signs of improvement. He continues to have blood in his urine but doctors are not overly concerned since they believe that it is a side effect from the chemotherapy he had prior to transplant. His fevers have continued so he must remain on antibiotics. We pray for a uneventful evening and look forward to another day of improvement.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant ten days ago and is starting to have blood counts. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, August 29, 2004 1:17 PM CDT DAY 37 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is still experiencing stomache/GI discomfort, but there has been signs of improvement. He continues to have blood in his urine but doctors are not overly concerned since they believe that it is a side effect from the chemotherapy he had prior to transplant. His fevers have continued so he must remain on antibiotics. We pray for a uneventful evening and look forward to another day of improvement.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant six days ago. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Friday, August 27, 2004 10:38 PM CDT DAY 35 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas was not feeling well last night. Unfortunately, he spiked a fever and was placed on antibiotics. Doctors have been monitoring all of his organs closely and have put him on renal restrictions due to higher than normal kidney counts. It seems that the more meds he receives, the more work his kidneys/liver must do to pass them through his system. Dosing of the meds has become an exact science since too much of a dose will put unnecessary strain on his kidneys/liver and too little will not help. His stomache/GI issues have subsided a bit, but he continues to experience bleeding, cramping and nausea. Doctors believe it to be a GI problem such as an ulcer in his stomache and/or small intestine and have placed him on a drug called Protonix. They have decided temporarily not to perform an endoscopy since if they did detect an ulcer the GI team would use Protonix anyway.
This is obviously another setback but with everyone's prayers and Thomas' strength everything will be fine.
On a sidenote, it is very difficult to see someone go through so much, and I could never imagine going through what my son has endured. Many of you have called Thomas a "hero", and " an inspiration", etc. I can only say from first hand experience, witnessing what I have seen - they are all true. As I sit here at midnight in the hall outside his room, writing yet another journal, I look back at all of the trauma that he has endured (many of you already know the detail), the fact that the past 18 months have been far too much for one man/woman to endure - let alone an 11 year old boy. Yet, Thomas is definitely special. He is so very strong - mentally & physically.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant six days ago. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Friday, August 27, 2004 10:53 AM CDT DAY 34 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas had a better night last night. He still had vomitting and stomache cramps but it was less frequent than Wednesday evening. Doctors believe it to be a GI problem such as an ulcer in his stomache and/or small intestine and have placed him on a drug called Protonix. They are debating whether or not to perform and endoscopy since if they did detect an ulcer the GI team would use Protonix anyway.
This is obviously another setback but with everyone's prayers and Thomas' strength everything will be fine.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant three days ago. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, August 26, 2004 11:23 AM CDT DAY 33 POST TRANSPLANT:
Not a good night last night. Thomas was up for most of the night with abdominal pain, vommiting and GI problems. There was blood in his stool and his red blood counts dropped a bit. He was given two platelet and two red blood cell transfusions to help stop any bleeding taking place and to replenish his blood counts. The doctors are "concerned" but not "overly concerned" since his primary organs are doing OK - lungs, heart, kidney, liver. They believe it to be a GI problem such as an ulcer in his stomache and/or small intestine and are placing him on a drug called Protonix. He will most likely undergo an endoscopy - which is a small tube/camera that is inserted in the mouth and into his stomache to look for ulcers - sometime tomorrow.
This is obviously another setback but with everyone's prayers and Thomas' strength everything will be fine.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant three days ago. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, August 26, 2004 9:04 AM CDT DAY 33 POST TRANSPLANT:
Not a good night last night. Thomas was up for most of the night with abdominal pain, vommiting and GI problems. There was blood in his stool and his red blood counts dropped a bit. He was given two platelet and two red blood cell transfusions to help stop any bleeding taking place and to replenish his blood counts. The doctors are "concerned" but not "overly concerned" since his primary organs are doing OK - lungs, heart, kidney, liver. They believe it to be a GI problem such as an ulcer in his stomache and/or small intestine and are placing him on a drug called Protonix. This is obviously another setback but with everyone's prayers and Thomas' strength everything will be fine.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant three days ago. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, August 24, 2004 11:19 AM CDT DAY 31 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is has been feeling well over the last two days. He had an ultrasound of his kidneys last night to look for a source of some bleeding he has had since Saturday. Fortunately, the doctors did not see anything out of the oridinary and the bleeding is almost completely gone- thank God.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant three days ago. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, August 22, 2004 10:00 PM CDT DAY 30 POST TRANSPLANT:
A better day today. During the past week, it appeared as though Thomas took two steps backward with every step forward. Each day had it's peaks and valleys and has been very stressful for everyone. Today, Thomas is feeling a little better. He especially was happy to see his brothers, Robert & William, yesterday. Although William was not allowed in Thomas' room, we managed to dress him in a protective gown and mask. Thomas actually smiled for the first time in a while. He so badly wanted to hug him but we had to keep William in the hallway. Technically, Robert is not old enough to visit with Thomas (14 or older) but the doctor made an exception provided that Robert suit up. We left them alone for a long time. Robert said that Thomas was very talkative and had a good time. It's amazing to see what a little brotherly love can do - especially in the city of brotherly love.
One of Thomas' little friends here at CHOP, Althea Hutchinson (www.caringbridge.com/pa/altheahutchinson), had her stem cell transplant three days ago. She, like Thomas, has a very strong soul and is always in good spirits. We ask that everyone keep Althea, Thomas and all the children here at CHOP in their thoughts and prayers. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over them.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, August 22, 2004 11:12 AM CDT DAY 30 POST TRANSPLANT:
A better day today. During the past week, it appeared as though Thomas took two steps backward with every step forward. Each day had it's peaks and valleys and has been very stressful for everyone. Today, Thomas is feeling a little better. He especially was happy to see his brothers, Robert & William, yesterday. Although William was not allowed in Thomas' room, we managed to dress him in a protective gown and mask. Thomas actually smiled for the first time in a while. He so badly wanted to hug him but we had to keep William in the hallway. Technically, Robert is not old enough to visit with Thomas (14 or older) but the doctor made an exception provided that Robert suit up. We left them alone for a long time. Robert said that Thomas was very talkative and had a good time. It's amazing to see what a little brotherly love can do - especially in the city of brotherly love.
Doctors have also decided to start lowering his steroid dose - the steroids are keeping his "new" immune system in a suppressed state, preventing GVHD from getting out of hand. However, the steroids also prevent his immune system from fighting off everyday infection.
We ask everyone to continue there prayers for Thomas. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over Thoams.
GOD BLESS
Saturday, August 21, 2004 8:45 AM CDT DAY 29 POST TRANSPLANT:
Another infection. Thomas tested positive this morning for a line infection. His line, called a double lumen broviac, is a tube inserted into his chest which accesses a main artery. He has had this line for well over 3 months and it serves as the primary means for administering his IV meds. This means that he must be on 10 days of strong antibiotics. Doctors have also decided to start lowering his steroid dose - the steroids are keeping his "new" immune system in a suppressed state, preventing GVHD from getting out of hand. However, the steroids also prevent his immune system from fighting off everyday infection.
We ask everyone to pray for Thomas' GVHD & infections to subside and for him to be cured of his illness. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over Thoams.
GOD BLESS
Friday, August 20, 2004 7:55 PM CDT DAY 28 POST TRANSPLANT:
BREAKING NEWS....Thomas' biopsies indicate that there is no sign of Graft vs. Host Disease in his GI tract. Further testing has revealed that Thomas has an infection. He contracted this infection a few days before his original release date. This type of infection usually runs its course in people with normal immune systems and symptoms improve after two weeks or so. In Thomas' condition, it must be treated immediately and it wasn't until the last few months that an antibiotic became available as a course of treatment.
Now that he is back on IV meds, it seems to be showing signs of improvement. These meds are designed to suppress his new immune system and to prevent it from coming on too strong. This immune suppression is a double-edged sword since it leaves Thomas very susceptible to infection. Obviously, he cannot be on IV for his entire life so it takes time to determine when to switch over to pills and, more importantly, when to start weaning his meds.
We ask everyone to pray for Thomas' GVHD to subside and for him to be cured of his illness. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over Thoams.
GOD BLESS
Friday, August 20, 2004 1:16 PM CDT DAY 28 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is doing a little better today. Unfortunately, he is dealing with a case of Graft vs. Host Disease (GVHD). His donor's cells (which serve as his new and only immune system) think that Thomas' organs are foreign and begin to attack them -his skin and "gut" shows signs of this. When doctors switched his meds from IV to pill form, the GVHD (which was always there) was able to gain more ground. Now that he is back on IV meds, it seems to be showing signs of improvement. These meds are designed to suppress his new immune system and to prevent it from coming on too strong. This immune suppression is a double-edged sword since it leaves Thomas very susceptible to infection. Obviously, he cannot be on IV for his entire life so it takes time to determine when to switch over to pills and, more importantly, when to start weaning his meds.
We ask everyone to pray for Thomas' GVHD to subside and for him to be cured of his illness. We truly believe in the power of prayer and know that God is constantly watching over Thoams.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, August 19, 2004 8:04 PM CDT DAY 27 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is still not feeling well. He is experiencing stomache cramps, vomitting and nausea and had to undergo a colonoscopy today. Doctors need to make sure that everything is OK in his digestive system. He has sever rashes on his face, neck and around his waist. They feel that his symptoms are typical signs of graft vs. host disease (GVHD). They have placed him back on IV meds which should get the GVHD under control. Some setbacks, but he remains strong, positive and committed to beating this disease.
In addition to today's procedure, Thomas' opthamologist examined his right eye. Unfortunately, his vision will remain blocked for at least another six months. The leukemia cells caused damage to his optical nerve and bleeding in front of his retina. The dried blood now blocks whatever vision is left. The opthamologist ordered an ultrasound for to be done over the next few weeks and we should have a better idea of his eye situation then. Anyone else would be devastated to learn of this, but it has little effect on Thomas. He has read over 4 books and he keeps on reading - with one eye.
Mr. Inspiration!
We thank God for his guidance and are grateful to everyone's for their support.
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, August 18, 2004 6:06 PM CDT DAY 26 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is still not feeling well due to nausea. He also is having some minor bleeding in his stomache and/or colon so doctors have decided to perform a procedure to determine where the source of the bleeding is coming from. If it is caused by GVHD (Graft Vs. Host Disease) then another med will be added to his daily regimen. It has been a miserable week for him and we know that things will be brighter soon.
Thomas' MRI, to determine his spinal injury, had to be re-scheduled for later date due to his nausea. Doctors believe the primary causes of his problem stem from the leukemia relapse in his spinal fluid, high doses of chemotherapy to his spinal fluid, and general de-conditioning. All point this leads to another challenge for Thomas, something we know he will conquer. In addition to his rehab, doctors are now starting to focus on his vision loss in his right. He still has no vision in that eye and we are hopeful that it will return over the next few months.
Thomas continues to smile and remain positive through it all.
His blood counts are still holding as well. We thank God for his guidance and are grateful to everyone's for their support.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, August 17, 2004 1:44 PM CDT DAY 25 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas has not felt well the past few days. He has been unable to take his meds on a regular schedule so doctors have decided to place him back on an IV. This will guarantee that his steroids and fluids are administered at the right times. Previously, he was unable to keep his meds down due to vomitting. Because of this, the doctors have decided to postpone his release.
Thomas' MRI, to determine his spinal injury, had to be re-scheduled for later date due to his nausea. Doctors believe the primary causes of his problem stem from the leukemia relapse in his spinal fluid, high doses of chemotherapy to his spinal fluid, and general de-conditioning. All point this leads to another challenge for Thomas, something we know he will conquer. In addition to his rehab, doctors are now starting to focus on his vision loss in his right. He still has no vision in that eye and we are hopeful that it will return over the next few months.
Thomas continues to smile and remain positive through it all.
His blood counts are still holding as well. We thank God for his guidance and are grateful to everyone's for their support.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Monday, August 16, 2004 12:00 AM CDT DAY 24 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas' stomache is not doing too well today. His nausea is preventing him from drinking adequate amounts of fluids, so doctors have decided not to release him tomorrow. They have pushed his release date out to Wednesday and we feel comfortable with this. His MRI, scheduled for later today, will hopefully reveal the cause of his inability to walk. Doctors believe the primary causes of his problem stem from the leukemia relapse in his spinal fluid, high doses of chemotherapy to his spinal fluid, and general de-conditioning. All point this leads to another challenge for Thomas, something we know he will conquer.
In addition to his rehab, doctors are now starting to focus on his vision loss in his right. He still has no vision in that eye and we are hopeful that it will return over the next few months.
Thomas continues to smile and remain positive through it all.
His blood counts are still holding as well. We thank God for his guidance and are grateful to everyone's for their support.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, August 15, 2004 9:12 PM CDT DAY 23 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas had a good day today. His nausea has subsided and he is able to take all of his meds orally. Doctors still have Tuesday as our discharge day and we will most likely be staying in the Philly area for a few days.
Full recovery is a long road, but everyone is very happy to see Thomas pass his first hurdle. His strength, determination and courage continues to shine.
His admission into the Children's Seashore House for rehabilitation will be delayed two weeks because there are no private rooms available. This is good news for Thomas since he will have some time at home before going back for rehab.
He will have an MRI tomorrow to determine what is causing his inability to walk. Doctors believe the primary causes of his problem stem from the leukemia relapse in his spinal fluid, high doses of chemotherapy to his spinal fluid, and general de-conditioning. All point this leads to another challenge for Thomas, something we know he will conquer.
In addition to his rehab, doctors are now starting to focus on his vision loss in his right. He still has no vision in that eye and we are hopeful that it will return over the next few months.
Thomas continues to smile and remain positive through it all.
His blood counts are still holding as well. We thank God for his guidance and are gratful for everyone's support.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Saturday, August 14, 2004 11:34 AM CDT DAY 22 POST TRANSPLANT:
Another roller coaster ride of emotions. Yesterday was a good day. We received good news relative to the results of Thomas' CAT scan yesterday. It revealed no signs of fungus or fluid in his lungs. However, Thomas was up all night last night due to vomiting. His is experiencing nausea this morning and is not feeling well. Since Thomas is no longer taking his medicines via IV, he must take them orally and doctors believe this is the culprit.
His counts remain at good levels and he is no longer taking morphine or IV feedings. A nurse practioner provided us with a one hour home care course with hopes of Thomas being discharged on Tuesday. Full recovery is a long road, but everyone is very happy to see Thomas pass his first hurdle. His strength, determination and courage continues to shine.
His admission into the Children's Seashore House for rehabilitation will be delayed two weeks because there are no private rooms available. This is good news for Thomas since he will have some time at home before going back for rehab.
He will have an MRI on Monday to determine what is causing his inability to walk. Doctors believe the primary causes of his problem stem from the leukemia relapse in his spinal fluid, high doses of chemotherapy to his spinal fluid, and general de-conditioning. All point this leads to another challenge for Thomas, something we know he will conquer.
In addition to his rehab, doctors are now starting to focus on his vision loss in his right. He still has no vision in that eye and we are hopeful that it will return over the next few months.
Thomas continues to smile and remain positive through it all.
His ANC is now over 7200. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection.
Thanks to God and everyone who continues to pray for Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Friday, August 13, 2004 6:39 PM CDT DAY 21 POST TRANSPLANT:
Good news today. The results of Thomas' CAT scan revealed no signs of fungus or fluid in his lungs. His counts remain at good levels and he is no longer taking morphine or IV feedings. A nurse practioner provided us with a one hour home care course with hopes of Thomas being discharged on Tuesday. Full recovery is a long road, but everyone is very happy to see Thomas pass his first hurdle. His strength, determination and courage continues to shine.
His admission into the Children's Seashore House for rehabilitation will be delayed two weeks because there are no private rooms available. This is good news for Thomas since he will have some time at home before going back for rehab.
He will have an MRI on Monday to determine what is causing his inability to walk. Doctors believe the primary causes of his problem stem from the leukemia relapse in his spinal fluid, high doses of chemotherapy to his spinal fluid, and general de-conditioning. All point this leads to another challenge for Thomas, something we know he will conquer.
In addition to his rehab, doctors are now starting to focus on his vision loss in his right. He still has no vision in that eye and we are hopeful that it will return over the next few months.
Thomas continues to smile and remain positive through it all.
His ANC is now over 7200. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection.
Thanks to God and everyone who continues to pray for Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Friday, August 13, 2004 6:39 PM CDT DAY 21 POST TRANSPLANT:
Good news today. The results of Thomas' CAT scan revealed no signs of fungus and fluid in his lungs. His counts remain at good levels and he is no longer on morphine and IV feedings. A nurse practioner provided us with a one hour home care course with hope of Thomas being discharged on Tuesday. Full recovery is a long road, but everyone is very happy to see Thomas pass his first hurdle. His strength, determination and courage continues to shine.
His admission into the Children's Seashore House for rehabilitation will be delayed two weeks because there are no private rooms available. This is good news for Thomas since he will have some time at home before going back for rehab.
He will have an MRI on Monday to determine what is causing his inability to walk. Doctors believe the primary causes of his problem stem from the leukemia relapse in his spinal fluid, high doses of chemotherapy to his spinal fluid, and general de-conditioning. All point this leads to another challenge for Thomas, something we know he will conquer.
In addition to his rehab, doctors are now starting to focus on his vision loss in his right. He still has no vision in that eye and we are hopeful that it will return over the next few months.
Thomas continues to smile and remain positive through it all.
His ANC is now over 7200. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection.
Thanks to God and everyone who continues to pray for Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, August 12, 2004 9:58 AM CDT DAY 20 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas had another good night last night. He continues to be weaned off morphine and some of the other meds. He is scheduled for a CAT scan on tomorrow to look for fungal infections and we pray for another good scan. On Monday, he will have an MRI of his spine to determine if there is nerve damage from the high-dose chemotherapy he was receiving - which caused weakness in his legs. The staff is pushing hard to have Thomas admitted into the Children's Seashore House after his stay in the Bone Marrow Unit. It is part of the Children's Hospital but focuses on patient rehabilitation. Everyone wants to see Thomas on his feet again.
As always, Thomas continues to smile and remain positive.
His ANC is now over 7500. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection.
Thanks to God and everyone who continues to pray for Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, August 11, 2004 9:54 AM CDT DAY 19 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas did well last night, despite having to endure another round of antifungal medications. He did not experience any of the drug's side effects. His fluid levels are starting to become more stable and he is being weaned off some of his other medications.
He is scheduled for a CAT scan on Friday to look for fungal infections and we pray for another good scan. On Monday, he will have an MRI of his spine to determine if there is nerve damage from the high-dose chemotherapy he was receiving - which caused weakness in his legs.
As always, Thomas continues to smile and remain positive.
His ANC is now over 8300. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. He is still experiencing fevers once or twice a day - signalling that his body is fighting off infection and a minor bout of graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Doctors do want to see some sign of GVHD to show that his donor's cells are going to work.
Thanks to God and everyone who continues to pray for Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, August 10, 2004 8:43 PM CDT DAY 18 POST TRANSPLANT:
Doctors have decided to place Thomas back on antifungal medications. Although he is doing well, there is a remote chance he may have a fungal infection. The high dose steroids he is on tend to mask fungal infections. Doctors have said that not treating a potential fungus could be disastrous. The number one cause of problems in transplant patients is fungas so we have agreed with the doctor's decision.
His ANC is now over 5300. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. He is still experiencing fevers once or twice a day - signalling that his body is fighting off infection and a minor bout of graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Doctors do want to see some sign of GVHD to show that his donor's cells are going to work.
Thanks to God and everyone who continues to pray for Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Monday, August 9, 2004 10:46 AM CDT DAY 17 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas' body continues to retain fluids resulting is higher blood pressure readings. Doctors do not seem to be overly concerned since they do see this happen in other cases and is a direct result of the engraftment process (the process where the transplanted stem cells migrate to the bone marrow and begin to produce new white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets). His lungs still contain fluid so doctors have prescribed higher doses of meds to eliminate them from his body.
His ANC is now over 4700. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. He is still experiencing fevers once or twice a day - signalling that his body is fighting off infection and a minor bout of graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Doctors do want to see some sign of GVHD to show that his donor's cells are going to work.
Thanks to God and everyone who continues to pray for Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, August 8, 2004 5:42 PM CDT DAY 16 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is feeling well today. His blood pressure is high from both the steroid medication he is taking as well as the large amount of fluid retention. One of his lungs still contains fluid so the doctors have prescribed meds to eliminate fluids from his body. Much of the fluid is a result of engraftment- the process by which the transplanted stem cells migrate to the bone marrow and begin to produce new white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets.
His ANC is now over 3800. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. He is still experiencing fevers once or twice a day - signalling that his body is fighting off infection and a minor bout of graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Doctors do want to see some sign of GVHD to show that his donor's cells are going to work.
Thanks to God and everyone who continues to pray for Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Saturday, August 7, 2004 6:09 PM CDT DAY 15 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is feeling much better today. He is still retaining fluid in his lung but it is improving. A CAT scan revealed no signs of fungus so doctors have taken him off of the anit-fungus medication today - and also eliminated two other meds which were used to offset side effects of the antifungal drug. He is also being weaned off of the morphine and IV tube feedings as well.
His ANC is now over 3800. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. He is still experiencing fevers once or twice a day - signalling that his body is fighting off infection and a minor bout of graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Doctors do want to see some sign of GVHD to show that his donor's cells are going to work.
Thanks to God and everyone who continues to pray for Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Friday, August 6, 2004 9:26 AM CDT DAY 15 POST TRANSPLANT:
A sleepless night in Philadelphia. Thomas' body is now retaining fluids, and according to an x-ray taken late last night, some fluids are in his lungs. Doctors have perscribed medicines which helps his body to get rid of the fluids but there is an obvious downside to that - we were up until 4:00am. We are hopeful that the medicines will help to eliminate the fluids from his lungs.
On a brighter note, Thomas' ANC is now over 2500. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. He is still experiencing fevers once or twice a day - signalling that his body is fighting off infection and a minor bout of graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Doctors do want to see some sign of GVHD to show that his donor's cells are going to work.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Friday, August 6, 2004 9:26 AM CDT DAY 14 POST TRANSPLANT:
A sleepless night in Philadelphia. Thomas' body is now retaining fluids, and according to an x-ray taken late last night, some fluids are in his lungs. Doctors have perscribed medicines which helps his body to get rid of the fluids but there is an obvious downside to that - we were up until 4:00am. We are hopeful that the medicines will help to eliminate the fluids from his lungs.
On a brighter note, Thomas' ANC is now over 2500. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. He is still experiencing fevers once or twice a day - signalling that his body is fighting off infection and a minor bout of graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Doctors do want to see some sign of GVHD to show that his donor's cells are going to work.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, August 5, 2004 4:10 PM CDT DAY 13 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas' ANC is now 1170. The ANC (absolute neutrophil counts) is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. He is still experiencing fevers once or twice a day - signalling that his body is fighting off infection and a minor bout of graft vs. host disease (GVHD). Doctors do want to see some sign of GVHD to show that his donor's cells are going to work. Doctors are very pleased with Thomas' condition and say that he is right on course. We look at these recent events with guarded optimism and thank God for watching over Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, August 4, 2004 9:21 AM CDT DAY 12 POST TRANSPLANT:
Doctors have determined that Thomas' white cells are well over 100. They now look to a value called ANC (absolute neutrophil counts). This is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. Once Thomas' ANC goes over 1000 he may be released from the hospital- provided that he meets other criteria as well. Over the past three weeks, Thomas' ANC was 0. Yesterday, it was 70 and today it spiked to over 500. Doctors are very pleased with Thomas' condition. We look at these recent events with guarded optimism and thank God for watching over Thomas.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, August 4, 2004 9:21 AM CDT DAY 12 POST TRANSPLANT:
Doctors have determined that Thomas' white cells are well over 100. They now look to a value called ANC (absolute neutrophil counts). This is an overall blood value used to measure the body's ability to withstand infection. Once Thomas' ANC goes over 1000 he may be released from the hospital- provided that he meets other criteria as well. Over the past three weeks, Thomas' ANC was 0. Yesterday, it was 70 and today it spiked to over 500. Doctors are very pleased with Thomas' condition. We look at these recent events with guarded optimism. Thanks to God.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, August 3, 2004 8:29 AM CDT DAY 11 POST TRANSPLANT:
Doctors have counted 50 cells in Thomas' blood sample this morning. He also spiked a 104 fever last night but has not had another fever since. High fevers are expected during this time period due to white cell activity. This is positive news and we pray that the trend continues.
White cells are the body's main defense in fighting infection and foreign substances in the body. The goal is to manipulate Thomas' system into thinking that these "new" white cells are his. This is done using anti-rejection medicines and steroids. Doctors have warned us that the upcoming week is most critical and Thomas may feel uncomfortable. Thomas is aware of this and prepared - knowing that he must endure another 2 weeks to reach the cure to his disease.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
We truly believe in the power of prayer so please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Monday, August 2, 2004 12:31 AM CDT DAY 10 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas had another restful night last night. Doctors found 8 white cells in his blood test this morning. This is a good sign that things are progressing in the right direction. His sores also have shown signs of healing.
White cells are the body's main defense in fighting infection and foreign substances in the body. The goal is to manipulate Thomas' system into thinking that these "new" white cells are his. This is done using anti-rejection medicines and steroids. Doctors have warned us that the upcoming week is most critical and Thomas may feel uncomfortable. Thomas is aware of this and prepared - knowing that he must endure another 2 weeks to reach the cure to his disease.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
Please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, August 1, 2004 2:15 PM CDT DAY 9 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is doing well today despite the fact that he is very tired from all of the medicines he is taking. The reason for a lot of the meds is to counteract the effects of the anit fungus medicine he is taking. It a pretty strong drug which requires other meds to counteract some of its side effects. These include a pre-treatment of benydryl, two doses of demerol each night, in addition to a constant drip of morphine. Last night was the first time in a while he had a decent night's rest.
Once again, within one week, his donor's white cells should start producing. White cells are the body's main defense in fighting infection and foreign substances in the body. The goal is to manipulate Thomas' system into thinking that these "new" white cells are his. This is done using anti-rejection medicines and steroids. Doctors have warned us that the next week or so is most critical and make Thomas very uncomfortable. Thomas is aware of this and prepared - knowing that he must endure 2-3 tough weeks to reach the cure to his disease.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
Please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Saturday, July 31, 2004 11:34 AM CDT DAY 8 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas is very groggy today from another sleepless night. He's been on a morphine drip to lessen the pain from his sores which will not heal until he starts producing white cells. Speaking of cells, there are no cells counted as of yet but we are anxiously waiting for this to happen. A good sign is that his red blood cell and platelet counts have stabilized.
Once again, within one week, his donor's white cells should start producing. White cells are the body's main defense in fighting infection and foreign substances in the body. The goal is to manipulate Thomas' system into thinking that these "new" white cells are his. This is done using anti-rejection medicines and steroids. Doctors have warned us that the next week or so is most critical and make Thomas very uncomfortable. Thomas is aware of this and prepared - knowing that he must endure 2-3 tough weeks to reach the cure to his disease.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
Please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Friday, July 30, 2004 1:50 PM CDT DAY 7 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas has been doing well despite the fact the he has severe sores lining his esaphagous and stomache. Today doctors have said that his body is pretty much at its lowest point of defense right now and it is a waiting game for the donors cells to start up. Within one week, his donor's white cells should start producing. White cells are the body's main defense in fighting infection and foreign substances in the body. The goal is to manipulate Thomas' system into thinking that these "new" white cells are his. This is done using anti-rejection medicines and steroids. Doctors have warned us that the next week or so is most critical and make Thomas very uncomfortable. Thomas is aware of this and prepared - knowing that he must endure 2-3 tough weeks to reach the cure to his disease.
On a much lighter note, anyone interested in chatting with Thomas, please use the following instant messaging names:
AOL - cancerkiller24
Yahoo - robtom578
Windows Messenger - robtom578@yahoo.com
Please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, July 29, 2004 4:07 PM CDT DAY 6 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas had a few more fevers last night, though not as severe as Tuesday night. Seven to ten days post transplant (which starts on Friday) is the time period when donor's white cells start producing. White cells are the body's main defense in fighting infection and foreign substances in the body. The goal is to manipulate Thomas' system into thinking that these "new" white cells are his. This is done using anti-rejection medicines and steroids. Doctors have warned us that the next week or so is most critical and make Thomas very uncomfortable. Thomas is aware of this and prepared - knowing that he must endure 2-3 tough weeks to reach the cure to his disease.
Please continue your prayers for Thomas.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, July 28, 2004 9:48 AM CDT DAY 5 POST TRANSPLANT:
Thomas had a tough night last night. He spiked a high fever which forced doctors to administer antibiotics and antifungus medicines. Unfortunately, the antifungus medicine caused chills. It lasted for a while so he was not able to get a good nights rest. On a positive note, he slept until 9:45 this morning.
He used his trusty laptop again last night to sign into AOL and Yahoo instant messaging. There were a few of his friends online and it made him happy to hear what everyone was up to. Since he has no view to the outside world - just a view of the indoor atrium- and no clock on the wall, it's very easy to lose track of the time.
Seven to ten days post transplant (which starts on Friday) is the time period when donor's white cells start producing. White cells are the body's main defense in fighting infection and foreign substances in the body. The goal is to manipulate Thomas' system into thinking that these "new" white cells are his. This is done using anti-rejection medicines and steroids.
Please continue your prayers for Thomas since the next week will be critical.
GOD BLESS
Tuesday, July 27, 2004 9:37 AM CDT Same report as yesterday....
Thomas continues to be plagued by body sores, particularly a major sore in his throat. Despite his discomfort, he does not complain. Why?? Because that's Thomas positive strength. Doctors say that it will be at least 7-10 days before his blood counts will show any signs of rising. The biggest risk for Thomas at this point is his own body rejecting the donors stem cells. This is known as Graft Versus Host Disease(GVHD). He is at risk for acute GVHD for the next few months and will continue to be at risk for longer term GVHD effects for 1+ years.
A stem cell transplant requires Thomas to remain in isolation for 4-6 weeks because his body has no immune system. Thereafter, he must refrain from public spaces (restaurants, theaters, malls, etc) for at least 6 months.
At this point (3 days post transplant), Thomas is right on target.
On a much lighter note, dad has set up an internet dial up account for Thomas' laptop. For those of you who are interested in Instant Messaging (IM) Thomas we have included his IM accounts below. We also have his webcam connected up as well.
Yahoo IM = robtom578 or class4tom
AOL = cancerkiller24
Windows Messenger = robtom578@yahoo.com
Please keep Thomas in your prayers.
GOD BLESS
Monday, July 26, 2004 3:24 PM CDT Thomas continues to be plagued by body sores, particularly a major sore in his throat. Despite his discomfort, he does not complain. Why?? Because that's Thomas positive strength. Doctors say that it will be at least 7-10 days before his blood counts will show any signs of rising. The biggest risk for Thomas at this point is his own body rejecting the donors stem cells. This is known as Graft Versus Host Disease(GVHD). He is at risk for acute GVHD for the next few months and will continue to be at risk for longer term GVHD effects for 1+ years.
A stem cell transplant requires Thomas to remain in isolation for 4-6 weeks because his body has no immune system. Thereafter, he must refrain from public spaces (restaurants, theaters, malls, etc) for at least 6 months.
At this point (3 days post transplant), Thomas is right on target.
On a much lighter note, dad has set up an internet dial up account for Thomas' laptop. For those of you who are interested in Instant Messaging (IM) Thomas we have included his IM accounts below. We also have his webcam connected up as well.
Yahoo IM = robtom578 or class4tom
AOL = cancerkiller24
Windows Messenger = robtom578@yahoo.com
Please keep Thomas in your prayers.
GOD BLESS
Sunday, July 25, 2004 7:55 PM CDT Thomas is starting to show some of the effects of his transplant. Doctors have said all along that his body's immune system will be very low which will cause fever and body sores. He currently has sores in his mouth, throat, upper leg area. Since these symptoms are expected, doctors administer various doses of morphine to eliminate any pain. The next few weeks will be tough for Thomas, but he is strong and positive.
We are grateful to God for surrounding us with such an amazing family, support from so many friends, and Thomas' donor - who can only be described as an angel.
GOD BLESS.
Saturday, July 24, 2004 8:52 AM CDT Thomas is resting comfortably after his transplant yesterday. It will be a few more days/weeks before any potential symptoms arise, so the next few days should be uneventful.
He received two new "toys" yesterday as well. First, new braces for his legs which are much more advanced and not as bulky as his previous set - he already gave them a workout. His second item was a new high tech bed. It is probably the most comfortable bed ever. It is difficult to describe, but in a nutshell - warm air circulates around fine powder which feels like a cross between an airbed/waterbed/and laying in sand at the beach. It is designed to prevent additional sores on his body.
We are grateful to God for surrounding us with such an amazing family, support from so many friends, and Thomas' donor - who can only be described as an angel.
Friday, July 23, 2004 8:16 AM CDT At 3:30AM, Thomas received his stem cell transplant. Everything seemed to come together in the wee hours of the morning. We attribute this to all of the prayers said around the world for Thomas. The stem cells were flown in last night around 9:30PM and the lab spent hours "fine tuning" the sample. In their exact words, it was a "wonderful" stem cell collection.
Yesterday was another roller coaster ride of emotions. One hour prior to Thomas' original transplant time, doctors informed us that the stem cells collected by the donor were not adequate enough for transplant. It was up to the donor to go back to her (yes we know it is a female) clinic to go through the donation process again - we can't say enough about how special she is. We also owe thanks to the lab crew here at CHOP who worked around the clock, and, as always, we can't thank all of you enough for keeping Thomas in your prayers. Now it's time to get some sleep.
THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS.
Thursday, July 22, 2004 7:49 PM CDT As Thomas' aunt mentioned in her message, we do have a new member of the family - Thomas' donor. We were informed earlier today that the stem cells from his donor were not adequate enough for the transfusion. This was due, primarily, to the method in which the stem cells were collected and not due to biological reasons (something doctors have only seen once before). We were informed that the donation was being performed at a major American Red Cross facility so it was surprising to hear this. The good news, our amazing new family member (the donor), agreed to come back again and start the process over again. As of 9:00pm EST, the new stem cells are in flight (from where we do not know) and should arrive shortly. The transplant procedure is scheduled for 3:00 AM.
Thank you for all your prayers and support and God bless you.
Thursday, July 22, 2004 11:40 AM CDT One more minor hurdle to the cure. Doctors have informed us that the stem cells from the donor may not contain adequate amounts of stem cells for Thomas' transplant. They will know by 6:30pm this evening whether there are enough cells or not. However, doctors have made a request to the yet to be named clinic to ask if the donor would come back for another donation. We were told that the donor has agreed t and we are extremely grateful to he/she for this.
Thank you to everyone for your extra prayers today. God bless you all.
Wednesday, July 21, 2004 7:32 AM CDT Today is Thomas' day of rest before his stem cell transplant tomorrow (scheduled for 4:00pm EST). He finished his second round of chemotherapy yesterday and will begin taking high-dose steroids through Friday. He is resting comfortably and looking forward to getting tomorrow behind him.
Our amazing parish community, St. Patrick Church in Chatham, will be holding a rosary service for Thomas tomorrow, 7/22, at 12:00pm EST. For those of you who cannot attend the service in person, we kindly ask you say a prayer for Thomas in your own special way. Thank you and God bless.
Monday, July 19, 2004 8:39 AM CDT Other than loss of sleep, and showers every four hours, Thomas is feeling well (and very clean). His first dose of chemotherapy is complete and he will receive the second drug today. It will be administered over two days and doctors say that drug tends to cause severe nausea. We are praying that it will not have this effect on Thomas.
Since there is no high-speed internet connection in his room, dad decided to sign up for dial up internet service locally. This will allow Thomas to start up his web cam instant messaging again.
Thank you for keeping Thomas in your thoughts and prayers.
GOD BLESS.
Saturday, July 17, 2004 8:14 PM CDT Thomas finished radiation treatments yesterday afternoon. He is very tired but is in good spirits. He started his first chemotherapy drug today and it will continue through Sunday. This drug causes severe skin burning so he must shower every four hours through Monday evening. He will start another chemo drug on Monday. That drug will continue through Tuesday. He will have a day off with steroids through Thursday with the actual stem cell transplant taking place on Thursday afternoon.
Thank you for keeping Thomas in your thoughts and prayers.
GOD BLESS.
Friday, July 16, 2004 8:02 AM CDT Almost done with radiation treatments - one more session to go this afternoon. Thomas is becoming more tired with each day but he is so strong. He was moved into the new bone marrow transplant wing of the hospital yesterday and although his room does not have a view of the outside world, it does provide a view of the hospital atrium. This will allow him to see all of his visitors through his window.
Tomorrow starts the second phase of the conditioning treatment. Doctors will administer two different types of chemotherapy drugs designed to wipe out his immune system. The drugs will end on Tuesday with a day of rest on Wednesday, followed by the stem cell transplant on Thursday.
Please keep Thomas in your thoughts and prayers.
GOD BLESS.
Friday, July 16, 2004 8:02 AM CDT Almost done with radiation treatments - one more session to go this afternoon. Thomas is becoming more tired with each day but he is so strong. He was moved into the new bone marrow transplant wing of the hospital yesterday and although his room does not have a view of the outside world, it does provide a view of the hospital atrium. This will allow him to see all of his visitors through his window.
Tomorrow starts the second phase of the conditioning treatment. Doctors will administer two different types of chemotherapy drugs designed to wipe out his immune system. The drugs will end on Tuesday with a day of rest on Wednesday, followed by the stem cell transplant on Thursday.
Please keep Thomas in your thoughts and prayers.
GOD BLESS.
Thursday, July 15, 2004 11:34 AM CDT Thomas never ceases to amaze us. His total body irradiation (TBI) therapy is going well with minimal side effects. We have officially completed half of the TBI, with intensive chemotherapy to follow on Saturday (we're not looking forward to that). So far, Thomas has passed time reading, watching a movie, but mostly strumming his accoustic guitar. He just started guitar lessons before his relapse so he has some catching up to do. As far as eating is concerned, his food selection has been reduced. For those of you who know Thomas well, he is not a sweet eater. He loves hot spicy foods and lots of fresh vegetables. Everything must be packaged and eaten within four hours, which means no leftovers. He must limit water to Dasani -which is the only bottled water that is bacteria free. Many adjustments, but in the whole scheme of things, very minor.
There are so many people praying and supporting Thomas in many ways and many places. We thank you all for keeping Thomas in your thoughts and prayers.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
Tuesday, July 13, 2004 4:13 PM CDT Today is the start of admission for Thomas' transplant. He will start the conditioning process tomorrow and will continue through Wednesday, 7/21. The stem cell transplant will be on Thursday, 7/22. It will be a long difficult road for Thomas, but he has shown us all that his determination and courage will get him through. We truly believe in the power of prayer and are blessed with all of the prayers Thomas has received. During this difficult time, we urge everyone to continue your prayer support for Thomas.
Thank you and God Bless.
Friday, July 9, 2004 7:58 PM CDT What a week! Daily trips to Philly, three chemo injections in Thomas' head via his new port, a bone marrow test, two blood transfusions, two physical therapy sessions....and all turned out well. Today we received news that all of Thomas' spinal fluid tests showed no leukemia cells, his bone marrow test today revealed the same. Doctors have given their approval to move forward with the transplant process.
We are grateful to everyone for your prayers and support, for we can attribute this positive news to the power of prayer and love by so many people. We can't say enough about that.
Thomas is also grateful to be home this weekend for his little brother's, William, birthday. William turns two tomorrow and a small family celebration will be held in his honor.
God Bless.
Wednesday, July 7, 2004 11:24 AM CDT One week to go until Thomas is admitted for his transplant. This week has been pretty busy. Thomas will undergo three more chemotherapy treatments (Mon, Wed & Fri) and has two physical therapy sessions. The trip back and forth to the hospital has become very routine, so much so, that Thomas no longer asks, "Are we there yet?". A very minor inconvenience considering what the alternative could be - overnight hospital stays. We are grateful for this.
GOD BLESS
Monday, July 5, 2004 3:49 PM CDT Thomas enjoyed the fourth of July at the shore with his family. He is feeling well and was very happy to spend time with all of his cousins. We hope that everyone enjoyed the long holiday weekend and we would like to thank everyone for all of your continued prayers and support.
GOD BLESS
Thursday, July 1, 2004 10:59 AM CDT Despite some of the procedures Thomas had to endure this week, the news we received on his condition was positive. All three chemotherapy treatments went well. The spinal fluid that the doctor drew from Thomas' head showed no signs of leukemic cells. We even received news that his new transplant date has been scheduled to start on July 14th (with the actual transplant occurring on the 22nd). We can attribute this encouraging news to prayer, love and support by so many people.
On a much lighter note, dad and Thomas went to an Aerosmith concert outdoors in the PNC Arts Center. Not only did we have great seats, but Thomas and dad went backstage before the concert and met Steven Tyler in his dressing room (see link below for pictures). He and Thomas had a long conversation which included Thomas leaving a message with Liv Tyler on her voicemail. Dad purchased a large number of "Livestrong" wristbands (100 he proceeds go to the Lance Armstrong Foundation and provides support for young cancer survivors and their families) and Thomas gave one to Steven Tyler. He wore it on stage during the whole concert. One of the highlights came when the band was performing the song "Dream On". Steven Tyler spotted Thomas in the crowd and shouted "Thomas" in between the lyrics. Thanks to everyone who pulled this together, it was a really a special night for Thomas.
We cannot thank everyone enough for all your prayers and support and ask that you continue to keep Thomas in your prayers everyday.
Monday, June 28, 2004 4:34 PM CDT Thomas and family enjoyed the beautiful weather this weekend. Everyone was grateful he was home. Today he had his first of three chemotherapy treatments. Doctors are using the port, which was placed in his head, to administer the treatments. According to Thomas, the needle was not painful, but it "felt like an elephant was standing on my head."
Two more to go and another long weekend at home. His transplant has not yet been re-scheduled but it will most likely take place in mid-July.
Many thanks and praise for your thoughts and prayers.
God Bless
Thursday, June 24, 2004 4:15 PM CDT Thomas had high fevers up until 8:00pm yesterday and doctors tested his blood for infection. All tests show no infection and he has had no fevers last night or today. He was sprung free from the hospital this afternoon :)
Next week he must have three chemo injections on Mon/Wed/Fri through his new port.
Please pray for a fever-free, uneventful week.
GOD BLESS
Wednesday, June 23, 2004 10:29 AM CDT In an earlier update we reported that Thomas was released from the hospital. Unfortunately, we wrote to soon. Just as his discharge papers were being written up, he developed a fever. This could have happened while we were home so thank God that we were still here.
On the bright side, his surgery went well yesterday and test results from the spinal fluid around his brain show zero leukemia cells.
We thank everyone for their prayers and support and we ask that you continue to pray for Thomas.
Tuesday, June 22, 2004 3:17 PM CDT Thomas underwent surgery this morning to have a port placed under his scalp. The port will allow doctors to inject chemotherapy directly into his spinal reservoir which surrounds his brain.
Who else would ask for chips and chocolate milk when waking up from brain surgery???? Thomas that's who. His strength and positive spirit amaze everyone he comes in contact with. Regardless of the hurdles he must face, he never complains. He knows that one day this will all be over, and he can focus on the wonderful days that lie ahead. He also knows that there are so many people praying and supporting him and that there's no way there will be any other outcome but success.
He is THE source for inspiration, strength, courage, and spirit - a real super hero.
GOD BLESS.
Thursday, June 17, 2004 7:27 PM CDT Thomas had another spinal tap today to determine whether the leukemia cells in his spinal fluid have decreased. The good news is that they did, in fact, decrease in number. However, doctors have decided to start another regimen of chemotherapy and shoot for a transplant in July. To make the administration of the chemo drugs more effective, a neurosurgeon will place a small device in Thomas' head which will allow for the chemo to be injected directly into his spinal fluid at the top of his spine vs. the bottom. This procedure will be performed on Tuesday. In addition to providing better coverage for the drugs, the device will also eliminate the need for Thomas to endure the discomfort associated with spinal taps.
All of your prayers and support are being answered and we ask everyone to continue them.
God Bless.
Monday, June 14, 2004 8:49 PM CDT It was a tough day today. Test results from Thomas' spinal tap today revealed that there are still leukemia cells in Thomas' spinal fluid. The good news is that there are half as many as there were 10 days ago, the not so good news is that the bone marrow team is holding a conference tomorrow to decide whether to delay the transplant. Ideally, doctors would like to have no evidence of leukemia in Thomas' body prior to introducing the donor's stem cells. However, they are also trying to determine whether his body can handle additional chemotherapy to get rid of those cells.
We will not know until tomorrow morning but whatever the decision, we know that Thomas will handle it as he always does. He has the power of prayer and God on his side.
God Bless.
Saturday, June 12, 2004 0:04 AM CDT Another surprise has been bestowed upon us yesterday. Doctors have decided to move Thomas' transplant out a few more days. Since his spinal tap last week indicated that there were leukemia cells in Thomas' spinal fluid, the transplant team wanted to perform another spinal tap (scheduled for this Monday) to determine if his leukemia was put into remission again from the cranial radiation treatments he has received this week. Once clear, he will be admitted on Tuesday (6/15) and will receive the stem cell transplant on Wed (6/23).
Thomas loved the good news that he can spend another weekend at home with his family - especially being with his brother Robert to celebrate his 13th birthday.
Last night was quite exciting as well. Dad, mom, Robert, Thomas & Julia (William stayed home) went to see the Yankees play the Padres. The entire family was granted access to players during batting practice. For an hour and a half, they were able to stay just inside the dugout just before the entrance to the locker room. This allowed them the opportunity to take pictures with nearly every player and coach (pics will be posted soon). It was really an unbelievable experience for everyone.
Wednesday, June 9, 2004 2:08 PM CDT Thomas is in the middle of a busy week. He's already completed two of his six cranial radiation treatments and has had one blood transfusion. In addition, his eye exam went well - the doctor said that his optical nerve swelling and clots around the eye are nearly gone and that the only thing in his way to sight is blood blocking his retina. Over time, this will hopefully go away.
He has a number of other appointments/procedures the rest of the week and will be admitted on Saturday.
We are hoping to do something special on Friday night, in celebration of both his brother, Robert's, birthday and a happy sendoff before transplant.
Thank you again for everyone's prayers and support.
God Bless.
Thursday, June 3, 2004 6:28 PM CDT Doctors found leukemia cells in Thomas spinal fluid after a routine spinal tap and bone marrow test today. Although this is another obstacle for Thomas, the good news is that his bone marrow still remained clear. Doctors are now positive that his eye condition was attributed to leukemic cells in his optic nerve. This also solidifies our decision to move forward with the transplant procedure, since it's definitive evidence that Thomas' leukemia is quite resistent to chemotherapy.
The next few weeks are pivotal for Thomas. He will start cranial radiation Monday through Friday next week (this is minimal exposure to treat his brain and spinal fluid). This will be followed by a regiment of drugs designed to destroy all of Thomas' blood cells. Later that week (6/16-6/18), he will undergo Total Body Irradiation (TBI) which is much more intensive radiation. He will then undergo his stem cell transplant after Friday's TBI on the 18th.
Please continue your prayers and support for Thomas during these coming weeks. He's come so far and is determined to fight for his cure and lives by one of his favorite quotes: "Losers quit when they lose, but winnners quit when they win".
God Bless.
Monday, May 31, 2004 6:37 PM CDT Everyone enjoyed the long holiday weekend, especially Thomas. His sister, Julia, had four soccer games (two on both Sat. & Sun.) and even scored a goal for Thomas. We were blessed to have such wonderful weather and, more importantly, have Thomas home. Thank you to everyone for all your prayers and support.
God Bless.
Tuesday, May 25, 2004 8:17 AM CDT Thomas had a busy weekend this past weekend. He attended his cousin's wedding on Saturday and was honored on Sunday at a fundraising dinner held in his name. Thomas was surrounded by family and friends both days providing him with much love and joy. A special thanks to the Peterpaul cousins for making it such a great day.
Yesterday, Thomas had physical therapy and a 10:00PM MRI. It turned out to be a late drive home. Thomas has nothing scheduled over the next few days so he will enjoy time with his family.
GOD BLESS !
Wednesday, May 19, 2004 2:21 PM CDT Doctors have decided to push Thomas' transplant date up two weeks. He will now undergo his transplant during the first week of June. This will allow doctors to hold off on another round of chemo and go right into transplant - causing less strain on his body.
Obviously, this is a bit of a surprise since we were expecting some extra time before transplant, but it is definitely a wise decision since he will now receive less chemotherapy.
Keep those prayers coming - we feel them everyday.
GOD BLESS
Monday, May 17, 2004 2:08 PM CDT Thomas had a great weekend at home in Chatham. He was able to spend time with family and friends throughout the weekend. The highlight was on Sunday celebrating his sister, Julia's, birthday. He also was able to attend the St Pats Spring Concert, 2 BBQs and a Little League game.
This week Thomas has three physical therapy sessions, an occupational therapy session, an MRI, and a blood test. Very low key compared to other weeks.
NO CHEMO until Monday so hopefully he'll have another good week. Doctors have activated two potential matches for Thomas' bone marrow transplant. Although they are not perfect, due to his rare typing, they feel that they are good enough to move forward for the transplant (within 3-4 weeks).
Thank you for all your prayers and support. GOD BLESS.
Monday, May 10, 2004 11:04 AM CDT Thomas has many appointments this week. Today, he must have a radiation treatment to his eye (one more left), some blood tests, and physical therapy. Hopefully, we are able to get out early to make a trip back to Chatham for the night.
Thank you to everyone for your continued prayers.
GOD BLESS.
PS
Please check out the photo of some of the bone marrow drive crew (hopefully we caught many of you in this picture). They deserve many honors for their hard work.
Sunday, May 9, 2004 6:56 PM CDT HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
Home for the weekend...Thomas was able to leave Philadelphia on Saturday and spend the rest of the weekend at home with his family in Chatham. We are extremely grateful for this. We continue to praise all those who keep Thomas in their thoughts and prayers.
May God bless you!
Friday, May 7, 2004 11:08 AM CDT God has blessed us with good news today. Thomas is able to go home for the weekend. He is feeling well and despite loss of vision to his right eye he remains so positive. Doctors say that his retina has detached (which they expected) and are hopeful that it will eventually re-attach once he has had enough time to recover. Thomas' reaction to this news was, "Can I get a pirate patch."
He truly inspires everyone with his attitude. Just like his AOL screen name he continues to say, "I'm the cancer killer."
We are still in awe from the overwhelming support we received at the bone marrow drive. Our St Pats & surrounding communities continue to show everyone how many good people there are amongst us.
Thank you to all and may God bless you.
Thursday, May 6, 2004 11:25 AM CDT Thomas is doing well today. On his way to his radiation treatment this morning he said, "Dad, I feel like a war veteran with all of these bandages." That brought a smile to everyone's face, including Thomas.
He's dying to show off his new glasses - special goggles to protect his eye.
Prayer is a wonderful thing and we truly are amazed by the power of prayer. Thank you to all and God Bless everyone.
Wednesday, May 5, 2004 1:57 PM CDT Thomas endured a battery of tests and procedures yesterday.
-His eye continues to be the most pressing concern for now. Biopsy results have revealed that there are not leukemia cells in Thomas' eye. However, doctors are extremely cautious and still believe it to be a leukemic issue and not an infection. They have decided to treat the eye with low dose radiation over five 3 minute sessions over the next week. We were extremely cautious with this decision, but were convinced by the fact that there was a greater risk without radiation treatments. Doctors are hopeful that his vision will be restored in his eye.
-The bone marrow aspiration also showed no signs of leukemia.
-His surgery involved installing a double broviac port in his chest to provide easy access for IVs/blood tests.
-We are also waiting for final results of his spinal tap but initial results have shown no signs as well.
Thomas continues to amaze everyone by his courage and positive attitude.
One could imagine how difficult it would be to recover from 2 1/2 hours of anesthesia and four procedures, but not Thomas. His first words in the recovery room were - "Get me a mirror so I can see my eye patch, I want to know if I look like a pirate" followed with a classic Thomas smile. (those of you who know Thomas, know of his magnetic smile).
He is resting comfortably after his first radiation treatment and looks forward to getting released.
Thank you to everyone for your prayers and support.
GOD BLESS.
Tuesday, May 4, 2004 10:20 AM CDT Thomas is scheduled to be under general anesthesia this afternoon to have multiple procedures. They are: an eye biopsy to determine whether his eye problem is due to leukemia cells; a bone marrow aspiration in his hip and a spinal tap to determine if there is evidence of leukemia; and a surgical procedure to insert a double broviac tube in his chest - this will serve as a primary access point for IV's, etc (which is similar to the port he had in his chest). He is also scheduled to undergo radiation treatments tomorrow to his right eye - this will be based upon the outcome of his biopsy.
Thomas is looking so great and feeling so well today, one could never believe he was ill. His procedures which are scheduled for one, are precluded by a session with his art therapist. One day we will have to set up a gallery for all of his artwork.
Our family is EXTREMELY grateful to all of the donors at Sunday's drive (nearly 600). Words cannot describe how truly thankful we are.
To those of you who worked so hard and so long for putting such a successful drive together - THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU. We know there is a patient out there who will benefit from all of your efforts. There will be a day when Barb and I can thank everyone appropriately.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
Monday, May 3, 2004 8:08 AM CDT Yesterday, our emotions went from one end of the spectrum to the other. Thomas' Bone Marrow drive was a complete success. A heart-felt thank you goes out to everyone who helped put such a wonderful event together and to those individuals who took time out of their Sunday to register - THANK YOU. It was truly inspiring to see just how many good people there are in this world. There were approximately 600 donors registered during the drive - a number which exceeded everyone's expectations.
Unfortunately, everything did not go exactly as planned yesterday. After enjoying dinner with family and celebrating the spectacular day, Thomas complained about a sudden loss of vision in his right eye. After numerous calls with our oncologist, it was determined to have Thomas come to the emergency room at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia late last night. An eye exam has revealed severe swelling in his optical nerve and doctors feel that Thomas' leukemia has returned and concentrated in his eye. More tests must be run but they are confident this is the cause of his vision loss. Thomas will most likely undergo radiation treatments towards the end of the week.
Our family has received so much love and support from our family, friends, and parish community, and we know that everyone continues to pray for Thomas. However, we ask that everyone say a special prayer for Thomas tonight - please pray that his leukemia has not returned.
Thank you and God Bless.
Friday, April 30, 2004 8:59 AM CDT Thomas has been working hard on his rehabilitation this week. He is looking forward to his bone marrow drive on Sunday and really appreciates all of the hard work everyone has done to pull the drive together. He will be coming home to Chatham again this weekend :)
God Bless
Tuesday, April 27, 2004 7:58 AM CDT Thomas enjoyed quiet time at home this past weekend. He watched his sister play two soccer games (she even scored a goal in one). His brother, William, kept him on his toes during the entire weekend - as only William can do. Besides being at home with his family, the highlight of the weekend came on Friday night. On his way home from Philadelphia, Thomas asked if he could stop by and see his brother, Robert, receive his sports award for basketball at the St Pats Awards Dinner. Dad, thinking that the Awards Dinner was limited to boys basketball, said it was OK to visit. When we got there the entire gym was filled, since the event was an awards dinner for all of the sports teams in St. Pats- not just basketball. Dad decided to keep Thomas in the hallway away from the crowds, but he was still able to see all his friends and watch his brother receive his awards for track and basketball. It turned out to be such a wonderful event for everyone. The highlight for Thomas came when his basketball team was called up to receive their awards. The coach called Thomas' name and as he was wheeled up to the front of the gym to receive his award, the entire gym gave him a standing ovation. One could never plan such a thing to happen. What an inspiring moment that was?
Thank you St. Pats for keeping Thomas in your prayers and supporting him the way you do.
God Bless.
Wednesday, April 21, 2004 8:18 PM CDT Thomas was home for the weekend and actually went to see his sister, Julia, play her soccer game on Sunday. We were so grateful to have almost the entire family together again(William had a fever and could not be with us).
Thomas started his outpatient physical therapy sessions today (we had personal family workout sessions since Saturday which included Dad's "tough love") and will be going for a minimum of three times a week. We will be making a music CD to inspire Thomas and it will include the following hits: Theme from the movie "Rocky"; Theme music from the movie "Rudy"; and the song "Put One Foot in Front of the Other" from the holiday classic "Santa Claus is Coming to Town". This CD will definitely inspire Thomas to walk again. He knows that it's extremely hard work to get back to how he once was but Thomas has been through so much already that nothing can stop him now.
We are currently staying in a 2 bedroom apartment just outside of Philadelphia (a town called Manayunk). It is only 10-15 minute ride to the hospital - which is very important. This apartment will serve as our base through Thomas' transplant and is only temporary since we could never leave the St Pats community.
Since Thomas was unable to be with his little brother, William, during the weekend, he has been lucky enough to have William with him at the apartment this whole week. It has been a great week seeing them both together - he definitely has a special bond with William.
We hope to be back in Chatham again this weekend, for Julia's soccer games on Sat. & Sun. and be with his sidekick - brother Robert. We are so proud of both of them, they are such amazing kids.
As always, we wish to thank everyone for their continued prayers and support. God Bless
Saturday, April 17, 2004 8:50 PM CDT Thomas is home!!! Dad pushed hard with the docs and they agreed he could be home for a brief stay provided that dad and mom take on some of the care (including an injecton each night -yuck). We could not believe that Thomas was actually in our car during our long ride home from the hospital. We must go back on Monday for additional tests and chemo will most likely start again within a week or so, but we are happy for what we have for now - Thomas home.
Thursday, April 15, 2004 5:49 PM CDT Thomas has officially been here at the Seashore House for one whole day. It's called the "Seashore House" because the original location was at the Jersey Shore, it has since been relocated next to CHOP. Other than a few snafus and a mixup of rooms, we are settled in. The rehab folks here would like for Thomas to stay for one week, but Dad has pushed the doctors hard to have a release on Saturday. His physical therapy sessions would still be 3 hours regardless whether he is an inpatient or outpatient but this way he could at least be at home with his family.
The physical therapy has been tough on Thomas (laying in bed for such a long time has caused severe weekness in his legs and the steroids have caused damage to his knees. But as you all know, this will not stop Thomas. He will be walking and flashing everyone that classic Thomas smile in no time.
God Bless.
Wednesday, April 14, 2004 10:02 AM CDT Thomas' CT scan showed no signs of fungus :)
He is scheduled to be transferred to the Seashore House (which is CHOP's rehabilitation hospital) this afternoon. He will need to endure some tough loving to get back on his feet. However, with Thomas' proven strenght and courage, it will be no problem for him at all.
Please keep those prayers coming so he can be back with his family, friends and St Pats commnunity soon.
God bless.
Tuesday, April 13, 2004 8:38 AM CDT Thomas blood counts continue to rise. He is due for a CT scan today which will determine if there is any fungus in his body. He will then be transferred to the Children's Seashore House (CHOP's rehabilitation facility). Thomas will receive intense physical therapy to regain the ability to walk again.
We wish to thank St Pats classes, 5A & 5B, for the Easter Baskets which they put together for each member of our family. They were amazing and everyone loved them.
Thank you to all.
God bless..
Sunday, April 11, 2004 11:22 AM CDT HAPPY EASTER TO ALL!!!!
Thomas did not hit the magic blood count number to win a day pass, but that didn't stop his family from bringing the Easter celebration to the hospital. Despite his low counts, he is feeling very well. On this joyous holiday, we wish to thank everyone for their prayers and support.
Thank you and God bless.
Friday, April 9, 2004 10:04 AM CDT Thomas is feeling better today. His spinal tap and chemotherapy procedures went well and the test results show that everything is on track. His blood counts are still low but do show improvement and consistency. We are actually working with the person who handles discharges so that when doctors approve his discharge, he's ready to go. In fact, his doctor actually said that if his counts reach a certain point, we may be able to obtain a "day" pass so he can temporarily leave for Easter Sunday.
We have seen such an improvment in Thomas' condition over these past few days (a big turnaround since Sunday) and we attribute this improvement to all of your thoughts and prayers. For this we thank everyone.
God Bless.
Wednesday, April 7, 2004 12:47 AM CDT Doctors informed us this afternoon that the fungus nodule in Thomas' cornea is gone. This is great news in the fight against fungus infection :)
Thomas' spirits have been pretty good the last few days. What really boosted them was a visit by 400 angels yesterday. The St. Pats staff organized a project whereby each student (grades K-8) was able to decorate their own paper angel. Thomas received them yesterday and strung them up with yarn to form a border around his windows. When the sun shines on them they truly come alive. Thank you St. Pats.
His blood counts continue to bounce up and down and doctors say that this is normal and quite common. Realistically, it appears as though Thomas will spend a second straight Easter in the hospital. Although there is a remote chance of that not happening, so we are praying for his release. He is scheduled to have another spinal tap and bone marrow procedure tomorrow, along with chemotherapy.
The power of prayer is truly amazing and we ask that everyone continue to keep Thomas in your daily prayers.
God Bless.
Monday, April 5, 2004 3:02 PM CDT Thomas' blood counts were down today dimishing our hopes to get him home over the next few days. The doctors do say that patients in Thomas' condition tend to have roller coaster results with their blood counts. They do his counts to rebound shortly.
We are also pushing Thomas to get himself back on his feet. He cannot walk on his own but that will change.
Please continue your prayers. Thank you and God bless.
Sunday, April 4, 2004 10:35 PM CDT Thomas' blood counts continue to climb. We are hopeful that the doctors will allow him to be released sometime this week. The overnight feedings through his tube are delivering the nutrition his body lacked for a long time. We are grateful to everyone for praying for Thomas. The power of prayer is truly a wonderful thing.
Friday, April 2, 2004 6:18 PM CST Thomas is doing a little better today. He even had a small increase in his blood counts. Doctors were concerned about his lack of nutrition intake so they decided to go ahead and insert a feeding tube. This will allow Thomas to receive most of the nutrition his body requires. Based upon his past experience with feeding tubes, he should have alot more energy in a few days.
Keep those prayers coming - THEY ARE WORKING :)
Wednesday, March 31, 2004 10:09 AM CST Thomas has been slowly improving over the last two days. We are still anxiously awaiting lab results to determine what is causing Thomas' fevers. Doctors say that all of the blood cultures that were taken have been negative for bacteria, but the fungus cultures take much longer (1 week) to grow.
We are extremely grateful to everyone for keeping Thomas in there thoughts and prayers.
God Bless.
Monday, March 29, 2004 10:43 AM CST Pathology reports show that there are NO leukemia cells in Thomas' spinal fluid or bone marrow. We take this as positive news since the roadmap for another relapse was extreme. Doctors have said that this is both good and not so good news. Since there is some sort of infection in his spinal fluid, potentially involving his brain and the fact that his bone marrow is not showing signs of blood cell production, it is unlikely that his body can fight the infection on his own over the next few days. Whatever the final word on his infection is, the medicines will only keep it in check, his body must do the work of eliminating it. We all know Thomas is much stronger than any type of infection but we still need all of your prayers to keep the positive direction going.
EVERYONE (there are far too many groups of people to name)- We are extremely grateful for your continued prayers and support for Thomas. Both mom and dad broke down in tears when hearing news of the standing room only prayer service at St. Pats. Once again, there are far too many people to thank for pulling this wonderful prayer service together. Thomas is truly an inspiration to us all.
Please continue to pray for Thomas' recovery.
Thank you and God Bless.
Sunday, March 28, 2004 2:34 PM CST Doctors are concerned today about Thomas' weakened condition. They have ordered another set of CAT scans and MRI's. He will be sedated during the MRI and will also undergo another spinal tap and bone marrow tap.
Their first concern is that Thomas has suffered another relapse. We are praying for no leukemia cells to be found and that his condition is due to some form of infection (the less severe of the choices).
We ask that everyone that reads this message today say an extra set of prayers for Thomas.
Saturday, March 27, 2004 11:47 AM CST Thomas underwent surgery early this morning to biopsy tissue in a swollen area of his chest. Doctors are pretty sure he has fungal infection, since an initial test on the sample did not reveal bacteria. Final results to determine if it's a bacterial infection will not be available for 2 days, while similar results to determine fungus infection will not be available for up to a week. In the interim, doctors have prescribed a new set of antibiotics and antifungus medications to cover all possible bugs.
This is another curve ball thrown Thomas' way, but as always he'll pull through with flying colors. As his nurse said last night - there's always sunshine after a rain storm.
Thank you for all your prayers and support, please keep them coming.
God Bless.
The Peterpauls
Friday, March 26, 2004 4:36 PM CST Thomas is scheduled to undergo a biopsy tonight to determine the source of his high fevers. As his white blood counts rise, they immediately have gone to work in an area in his chest just below the skin which has caused some swelling. Doctors will biopsy this area (a lymph node) to determine what type of infection he is suffering from (bacterial or fungal). Once the tests of the biopsy are completed, doctors will know what type of bug to treat and prescribe a specific medicine.
Pleas keep Thomas in your prayers.
Thank you.
Thursday, March 25, 2004 1:00 PM CST Thomas was able to see most of his classmates today via his webcam. Even though he was very tired, he managed to sit up in his chair and listen to updates at school. It definitely made him happy to see his friends.
Also, some of his blood counts have risen a little bit, showing signs of an upward trend. He can't wait to get back home to see his family and, or course, Ellie.
All of those prayers and support are definitely helping. Please keep them coming.
God Bless.
The Peterpauls
Tuesday, March 23, 2004 5:55 PM CST Thomas is starting to feel a little better today. We are starting to increase his physical fitness activities as well. Being couped up in bed for over a month has made him a little weak. But as everyone knows, he is the strongest kid there is for enduring what he's been through.
Doctors have decided to stop 3 of his medicines, leaving just two left. We can't wait until his blood counts come back - nothing as of yet though.
We know that most of Thomas' strength comes from his faith in God, family, friends and all of the St. Pats community. All of your prayers and support have kept him focused on his road to a cure.
God Bless.
The Peterpauls
Friday, March 19, 2004 8:03 PM CST Other than occasional fevers, Thomas is resting comfortably. We (doctors included) are all waiting for his blood counts to come back. His low counts are exactly what doctors expected due to his intensive chemotherapy (which has now ended for this phase). We are hoping that this upcoming week should allow Thomas to be discharged from the hospital, but it's all dependent upon his counts.
We thank everyone for their continued support and prayers.
God bless you all.
The Peterpauls
Wednesday, March 17, 2004 12:18 AM CST Thomas had a big day today. For the first time in over a month he was able to see his St. Pats classmates and teachers via his webcam. It definitely brought that classic Thomas smile to his face - one which we haven't seem in a while. He was very happy to his friends. In addition to today's virtual meeting with his classmates & teachers, Thomas received a very special phone call last night (thanks to his special buddy Kevin). David Wells, former NY Yankee pitcher, called Thomas last night and spoke with him for a long time. He provided words of encouragement for Thomas and even invited him to a Padres/Yankees game for this season.
Mom, dad & Thomas' aunt Luanne met with the bone marrow transplant team today. Thomas' marrow typing in not a common one, but doctors said that there are some potential candidates in the donor pool. The entire transplant process will take months, most likely starting in late May/early June. He will need to be in total isolation for approx. 30 days after the procedure (the procedure is just like receiving blood). The biggest risk of the transplant is the development of Graft Vs. Host Disease (GVHD) where Thomas' body rejects the donor's stem cells. There are other less pleasant effects as well but looking at the long term, it's was best for Thomas.
Saturday, March 13, 2004 4:36 PM CST Thomas endured some pretty tough experiences this past week. When we think of all of the procedures, tests, and nasty side effects from his medicines which he has on a daily basis, we are truly taken back by his bravery. Today he seems to be feeling like his old self. He got out of bed and walked around his room and actually sat upright in his chair for 30 minutes. We are praying that things will continue to move in this positive direction. Doctors are also weaning him off some of the medicines including the steroids.
In addition, if things continue on an upward trend, he may actually be be released within the next week or two. He is looking forward to seeing his classmates on the webcam this week.
Thank you to everyone for your continued prayers and support. God bless.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004 1:05 PM CST Unfortunately, doctors informed us today that there was not a bone marrow sibling match. They did say that the mapping of the human genome (which was a recent discovery) allows them to find a much better match than what was attainable before. They also said that we are way ahead of schedule so there's absolutely no rush.
In addition, we truly appreciate everyone's williness to donate marrow for Thomas but it will most likely not end up to be a match (doctors say there's a one in a million shot of that happening). They are confident a match will be found in their database.
He is currently recovering from his procedures yesterday and is dealing with another fever - very frustrating.
Good news: his spinal tap yesterday revealed no traces of leukemia cells - which is what doctors expected.
We know there is going to be a match but please continue your prayers for him.
Thank you and God Bless.
The Peterpauls
Sunday, March 7, 2004 11:48 AM CST Thomas is resting comfortably despite high blood pressure. His three IV lines are causing some discomfort and doctors will most likely put in a new central line to allow for easier access.
His appetite is OK but it's difficult for him to eat using his "IV" hands. Unlike last year during his treatments, he is craving sweets like Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream (flavors Chunky Monkey / Phish Food) vs. hot spicy foods like Buffalo Wings & Tabasco.
Last night, dad used his laptop and cell phone to go on the internet. He loved to browse around, and coincidently we found one of Thomas' friends (Scott) online (using Yahoo Instant Messenger). He had a webcam too and he was able to show Thomas his pet parrot, Pepper. Thomas loved to see the parrot on top of his friend's head. It definitely brought a smile to his face.
Once again, if anyone does have a webcam, please let us know in the guestbook so we can add your Yahoo Instant Messenger name to Thomas' buddy list.
Please continue to keep Thomas in your thoughts and prayers.
God Bless.
Friday, March 5, 2004 12:32 AM CST Thomas was released from the intensive care unit at 12:00 today. He is now back in his old room (3 South-Rm 14). He is still experiencing fevers from an unknown source, but now that his port is removed doctors can now elminate that as one of the sources of infection.
The unfortunate part of not having a port is enduring the pain associated with putting IV's in his hands and arms. He does require multiple IV's since he is still receiving multiple forms of antibiotics and antifungal agents.
On a more positive note, he received a package from his St Pats class. It was filled with get well cards and wishes. They brought a classic Thomas smile to his face.
We appreciate everyone's prayers and thoughtfulness. There is something to say about having great family and friends' love and support. We thank everyone for this.
God Bless.
Wednesday, March 3, 2004 2:19 PM CST Thomas' strength and courage never cease to amaze us. Because of the constant fevers and low blood pressure, doctors decided it was necessary to remove his port. There was obvious concern because of his weakened condition and low blood pressure. We briefly spoke with the doctor after the surgery and he said that things went well. We are anxiously waiting for him in his new room in the intensive care unit.
We said this many times, and will continue to reiterate the fact that Thomas is truly a hero to all of us.
Keep those prayers coming.
God Bless.
The Peterpauls
Tuesday, March 2, 2004 10:14 AM CST Thomas has managed to spike a fever everyday for the last 6 days. Fortunately, they are not as severe as they were last week. He continues to take three different antibiotics and anti-fungus medicine for treatment. Despite the fever, he endured another spinal tap yesterday to confirm that the leukemia cells are in remission. We should also receive the bone marrow typing results this week and we are praying that there is a sibling match.
On a brighter note, one of Thomas' classmates father will be installing the webcam in his classroom. In the next few days, we hope to be able to exchange video between Thomas and his class.
Saturday, February 28, 2004 11:23 AM CST Thomas received a stack of get well cards from his fellow classmates (5A/5B) yesterday. Reading them brought a smile to his face. They are now hanging on the wall in front of his bed. He is feeling a little better today and even was able to play an electric guitar with his CHOP music teacher.
If anyone does have a webcam and would like to transmit images to Thomas please use Yahoo Messenger and look up his ID: ROBTOM578. You may also use MSN Messenger ID: robtom578@yahoo.com .
Once again, Thomas' strength, courage and positive attitude have affected everyone and it is truly amazing what the power of prayer can do.
God Bless.
The Peterpauls
Friday, February 27, 2004 10:28 AM CST The good news is that Thomas was able to get out of intensive care and back down to his old room last night. The not so good news is that as soon as we arrived he spiked a fever again (104.5). Doctors were more concerned with his low blood pressure vs. his temperature (which is normal for children in his state). As of 11:30am today, he has a slight fever (101.5), normal blood signs, and he is resting comfortably. Unfortunately, since his fever came back at such a high rate, doctors must place him on a new regimen of three different antibiotics and an antifungal agent (some of these medicines contribute to his low blood pressure). Very frustrating but necessary.
In addition, Dad can, once again, set up his computer for Thomas to see his family via the webcam. We received an email today from a parent of one of Thomas' classmates with an offer to install the webcam which was supposed to be installed yesterday morning by dad. Hopefully, this will get done so Thomas can see his classmates and teachers.
If anyone does have a webcam and would like to transmit images to Thomas please use Yahoo Messenger and look up his ID: ROBTOM578. You may also use MSN Messenger ID: robtom578@yahoo.com .
Once again, Thomas' strength, courage and positive attitude have affected everyone and it is truly amazing what the power of prayer can do.
God Bless.
The Peterpauls
Thursday, February 26, 2004 10:30 AM CST Unfortunately, Thomas spiked a high fever yesterday afternoon. After receiving antibiotics his blood pressure became extremely low and doctors transferred him to the intensive care unit. It was a tough night last night, but as is typical with Thomas, he fought his way through and has managed to stabilize. Doctors say that when things continue to stay on course -which they fully expect- he will be able to get back to his old room on 3 South. Blood cultures revealed that Thomas has an infection in his port and thanks to the entire medical staff here they treated him early enough to prevent further complications. They also said that this is "par for the course" for kids in Thomas condition (extremely low blood counts basically prevent Thomas from fighting off germs/infections). The next few weeks are going to be extremely tough for him since his chemotherapy will continue to lower what little counts he has left.
For today, we will be happy once we are back down in the Oncology unit since the environment is much more pleasant for Thomas. In addition, Dad can, once again, set up his computer for Thomas to see his family via the webcam. Hopefully, over the next week or so, dad will install a webcam in Thomas' classroom so he can see his classmates and teachers. If anyone does have a webcam and would like to transmit images to Thomas please use Yahoo Messenger and look up his ID: ROBTOM578
Thomas is truly an amazing boy and our hero. Please continue your prayers for him during this difficult time.
God Bless.
The Peterpauls
Saturday, February 21, 2004 9:17 AM CST Thomas is resting comfortably in his room. He is in day 8 of a 35 day chemo phase to put his cancer into remission. He is not too happy about being isolated and he especially misses his family and puppy (Ellie). Dad managed to set up a webcam at home and one in the hospital and with the use of Yahoo Instant Messenger he can exchange video with his family so he can see everyone. It works so well that his grandmother (Nonna) and aunts (Luanne,Mariann & Robin) puchased three other webcams so they can transmit live video to Thomas as well. Hopefully, over the next week or so, dad will install a webcam in Thomas' classroom so he can see his classmates and teachers. If anyone does have a webcam and would like to transmit images to Thomas please use Yahoo Messenger and look up his ID: ROBTOM578
As far as school, Thomas met with his tutor (Kelly) yesterday for an hour (which is equivalent to one full day of school) and also learned about other activities that the hospital offers - art and music lessons in his room, physical therapy, etc.
Please continue your prayers for Thomas.
God Bless.
The Peterpauls
Thursday, February 19, 2004 6:43 PM CST Today, our family had their blood tested to determine if there's a bone marrow match with Thomas. The results of the tests will not be available for approx. one week. In addition to the tests, Thomas was admitted into the hospital. The room is located in a new wing and is very nice.
Please continue to keep Thomas in your prayers.
Monday, February 16, 2004 9:40 AM CST Thomas had a great time on Saturday. His wish (a miniature Dachschund) was granted from the Make-a-Wish foundation. A big limo picked the family up at our house and drove us to the breeder in Freehold, NJ. Thomas has decided to name her Ellie.
She is a very friendly puppy and Thomas has decided to call her his "daughter".
Today, Thomas will undergo another spinal tap for testing and chemo and he will be admitted into the hospital on Thursday for a 3-4 week stay.
He will try to visit his classmates tomorrow (maybe during pickup).
As always, thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers.
Thursday, February 12, 2004 5:03 PM CST A spinal tap on Monday has revealed that leukemia cells were found in Thomas' spinal fluid, which in medical terms, is known as a relapse. An additional spinal tap and bone marrow test today showed that although there were no cells in his bone marrow and less leukemia cells in his spinal fluid, he must now endure a new treatment protocol. This treatment will involve three months of more intense chemotherapy, steroids, and radiation. All followed by a bone marrow transplant with hopes of finding the right match. Doctors said that if a match is not made with his siblings (Robert,Julia or William), they will obtain the marrow from their donor pool.
It should take approximately 5-6 months for his treatments to be completed.
During the next few months, we ask that you keep Thomas and our family in your thoughts and prayers.
Tuesday, February 10, 2004 4:02 PM CST Thomas had a spinal tap yesterday and the results will be discussed on Friday. PLEASE keep Thomas in your prayers.
Saturday, February 7, 2004 4:53 PM CST We are grateful that things have been going well. Thomas is anxiously waiting for the latest edition to the Peterpaul family - a miniature dachshund. On February 14th, a limosine will pick up the family and bring us to a dog breeder. This is being arranged by the Make-a-Wish Foundation and we really appreciate their help in bringing so much joy to Thomas...
Friday, January 23, 2004 1:52 PM CST Much to our surprise, doctors decided to release Thomas yesterday afternoon from the hospital. Even though he continued to have mild fevers, they felt that his blood counts are at good enough levels to fend off infection. We are happy to have him home even though every one of his siblings is struck with one form of illness or another.
Thank you to all for your thoughts and prayers.
Thursday, January 22, 2004 9:30 AM CST Thomas is still in the hospital (Morristown Memorial). His fevers were in check until last night (103). We were hoping he would get out today since his blood counts are good, but he will most likely have to stay in until tomorrow at a minimum. His spirits are suprisingly well- such a strong kid.
He has been enjoying visits by his brothers and sister as well.
We can't say enough how much we appreciate everyone's prayers and support. God bless.
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 3:06 PM CST Thomas was doing great for a long time. Unfortunately, over the weekend he spiked a few fevers and had a cough. This morning, his fever hit 102 and he had difficulty breathing. He had to be admitted into Morristown Memorial Hospital and we are hoping that he will be released tomorrow.
Please keep him in your prayers.
Sunday, January 11, 2004 3:50 PM CST Thomas has been doing very well. We enjoyed a well needed vacation in Florida and had a great time. The weather was perfect and Thomas has grown a lot of hair back and even got some color (despite the massive amount of sunblock applied by mom). It's nice to see him acting and looking like him old self.
Thomas was visited by his good friend, Kevin today. Kevin spent a long time speaking with Thomas and was extremely gracious. It's nice to have such good peope in the world who really care about kids. Thank you Kevin.
Thomas will be going to CHOP tomorrow for a spinal tap and treatments. He will be going with his mom and family friends', Kathy and her son Daniel. Daniel, too, is facing his own challenge and is doing very well. Please keep Daniel and Thomas in your prayers.
Sunday, December 21, 2003 9:59 PM CST WE WISH EVERYONE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR. ALL OF YOUR PRAYERS AND SUPPORT HAVE BEEN TRULY A BLESSING THROUGHOUT THIS PAST YEAR. WE ARE THANKFUL TO HAVE SUCH WONDERFUL FAMILY AND FRIENDS. WITHOUT ALL OF YOUR HELP, WE DON'T KNOW HOW WE COULD HAVE MADE IT THROUGH.
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND HAVE A JOYOUS HOLIDAY SEASON!!
Love,
The Peterpauls
(Frank, Barbara, Robert, Thomas, Julia & William)
Monday, December 15, 2003 11:10 AM CST Thomas has been doing well at home. On Saturday, we took the family for a road trip to Peddler's Village by New Hope Pennsylvania. Once there, we enjoyed a Christmas festival and had a great horse drawn carriage ride throughout the town. It was a pleasure to have everyone together again.
Thomas officially starts the "maintenance" phase of his treatments today. This phase will last for approx. 2 1/2 -3 years. During this phase he must have a spinal tap every 3 months and chemo & steroids for one week/month. This may sound like a lot but it is much less intense than the last 9 months have been. He has a treatment scheduled for today at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (we decided to transfer Thomas back to CHOP.
We hope everyone has a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. We are thankful for your prayers and support.
Love,
The Peterpauls
Saturday, November 29, 2003 7:45 PM CST We hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday and enjoyed time with family and friends. Thomas enjoyed a quiet family dinner at home and we were thankful that the family was whole again.
As you can see by the top picture on the photo page, it wasn't so quiet on Saturday. While shopping in a Red Bank, NJ store, Thomas, Robert & Julia spotted Bruce Springsteen and his family in the same shop we were in. Thomas said hello and asked Bruce if he would take a picture with him (as luck would have it, we happened to have a camera with us). Bruce was more than happy to oblige and was extremely nice to us. Unfortunately, Robert missed the shot but he saw it all.
Wednesday, November 26, 2003 5:05 PM CST THOMAS FINALLY IS HOME! JUST IN TIME FOR THANKSGIVING. His feeding tube must remain in place for at least a week but at least he is able to spend quality time with family and friends. Thanks to all for your prayers and support.
Tuesday, November 25, 2003 9:12 AM CST Thomas' blood counts are on the rise and, according to his doctors, there's a good chance that he may be released tomorrow. Just in time for Thanksgiving! We are hopeful this will happen.
The blood drive held at Frank's office was a complete success. Even though the drive was announced only one week prior, there were over 38 donors. Thank you to everyone for making this a success.
We hope to conduct another blood drive sometime in January. We urge everyone who has not done so, to donate blood - tt truly is the gift of life.
Monday, November 17, 2003 2:00 PM CST Thomas' blood counts remain at low levels and he must remain hospitalized. All of the doctors say that this is normal and they are hoping that his counts will start creeping up over the next few days - continue those prayers.
On another note, Frank and Barbara have organized a blood drive this Monday (11/24- 10-4:30) at Frank's office. Over the last six months Thomas has received multiple blood transfusions and we feel obligated to replenish the public supply through a drive. We encourage those who have not done so already to donate. Walkins are welcome but appointments can also be made. Please call Frank's cell, 973-714-7606 for more detail.
Blood Drive, Monday 11/24 - 10-4:30pm
Location:
Oracle Corporation
1 Upper Pond Rd
Bldg D, 3rd floor - Stars & Stripes Demo rooms
Parsippany, NJ
Tuesday, November 11, 2003 2:38 PM CST Thomas' blood counts are still at very low levels. He will most likely be in the hospital for another week. Unfortunately, he is taking both antibiotics and antifungal medications - both of which contribute to his nausea. He has lost nearly 10 pounds over the last two weeks and we are praying he will start eating again. It is extremely frustrating to have this happen right before entering into the less intensive phase of treatment, but this is something that does occur with some patients.
On a brighter note, NBC news came to the hospital to report on the hospital's use of a new dining service. Basically, Thomas can pick up the phone and order all sorts of menu items (just like room service in a hotel). The reporter came into our room and interviewed Thomas. We are looking at Channel 4 News every night to see when the story will come on. Hopefully someone will catch it and videotape it for him. He was very excited.
Monday, November 3, 2003 11:02 AM CST We are still waiting for Thomas' blood counts to rise so he can be release from the hospital. Tomorrow marks the end of his first phase of treatments and it would have been nice to have a small celebration at home. Doctors say that it is a waiting game and cannot give us a specific day when he will be released. It's all dependent upon his counts - which are being hit hard from last week's chemo.
Despite being in the hospital, Thomas had a good time at the Hospital Halloween Party. There were a lot of activities for him to do and he received a lot of candy. His adopted fraternity brothers have not missed a day and even came on Halloween night.
Please continue to keep Thomas is your prayers....
Thursday, October 30, 2003 11:14 AM CST Thomas is still in the hospital and most likely will not be released for a week. He must remain there until his blood counts come back. He's not too happy about spending his Halloween in the hospital but things could be worse. It's a double-edged sword since the chemotherapy he is receiving contributes to lowering his counts. We are all looking forward to Tuesday which is, technically speaking, the end of his "intense" phase of chemo :)
The entire family is thankful to all of his Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity friends who have spent everyday this week including all day on Saturday with Thomas. In fact, just yesterday Mike Rose, Simeon Stamm & Jeff ?? (sorry Jeff but you know who you are) came to the hospital with pizza ingredients and assisted Thomas, along with two other patients, in making pizzas.
Hopefully, Thomas' counts will bounce back quickly so he can be released.
Monday, October 27, 2003 4:10 PM CST Thomas' should have had a nice weekend at his adopted fraternity brothers BBQ. Unfortunately, he spiked a fever and had to be admitted into the hospital. He must remain in the hospital until his counts come back and is fever free for 48 hours.
On the brighter side, the entire family is thankful to all of his fraternity friends who spent all day on Saturday preparing the food and activities and wound up spending from 3:00-11:30pm in the Emergency with us. In particular, four brothers from Sigma Alpha Mu: Mike, Simeon, Chopz, & Adam were unbelievable. They met Thomas only once before and wound up spending 8 1/2 hours with us and even went out of their way to go back to their house and bring the BBQ to the ER. We cannot say enough about these guys. Thank you.
Hopefully, Thomas will get out shortly and get back to school. Only a few more weeks of intense treatment :)
Tuesday, October 21, 2003 2:13 PM CDT Thomas just had another spinal tap today. He obviously was not looking forward to that. Doctors say that his counts look pretty low but that is what's expected. He will have to go for a blood transfusion on Friday to build them back up.
The hospital & Rutgers University have created an Adopt-a-Family program. We are now officially adopted by Sigma Alpha Mu. The fraternity has invited us to a BBQ this Saturday and Thomas is very excited (thanks guys).
Sunday, October 19, 2003 8:34 AM CDT Thomas is undergoing intense chemo and is starting to feel the effects. Since he immune system is at extremely low levels we have decided to keep him out of school for the next week. This "intense" phase will last through the end of this month into early November.
Friday, October 10, 2003 7:13 PM CDT Thomas has just finished three weeks of steroid treatment. He is doing well and will finish his intense chemo treatments towards the end of this month.
He had an exciting start to the month. He went to a Sting concert in NYC with his mom, dad and brother and the next day to a Giants game with his dad and brother(unfortunately they lost).
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 2:34 PM CDT Thomas enjoyed his SURPRISE BOWLING birthday party on the 17th. We could not believe that all of his friends were able to keep it a secret. He was very surprised.
Last week Thomas completed three weeks of steroid treatment. He is a little depressed because of the effects of the steroids (puffy face, painful joints, etc). We are glad that he is off of them now. He is scheduled for additional treatments next week and will continue through the end of October. This will end the "intense" portion of his chemotherapy. "Maintenance" will follow for 2 1/2 years.
Our entire family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, thoughts and generosity.
Wednesday, September 17, 2003 9:38 AM CDT
HAPPY BIRTHDAY THOMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PLEASE JOIN US IN WISHING THOMAS A HAPPY AND HEALTHY 11th BIRTHDAY.
Tuesday, September 9, 2003 4:01 PM CDT Thomas enjoyed the last few weeks of the summer. He spent a long weekend in Cape Cod, saw Bruce Springsteen twice and a pre-season Giant game (thanks to Cousin Debbie). He started school last Wednesday and loves to be back with his friends. He also started the last intense phase of his chemotherapy on Thursday. He is looking forward to ending the intense portion of his chemotherapy (which should be sometime around October 30th). Thereafter, he must remain on maintenance for 2 1/2 more years.
A long road ahead but thanks to everyone's thoughts and prayers he has managed to stay ahead of the curve.
God Bless.
Saturday, August 16, 2003 9:45 PM CDT Thomas has finally been able to enjoy the summer. He is feeling well and has not had any problems the last few weeks. The Peterpaul clan hopes to get away to Cape Cod for a long weekend and he is looking forward to that.
Please continue your thoughts and prayers.
Thursday, August 7, 2003 10:53 AM CDT Thomas' spirits are low this week due to the loss of Uncle Charlie to cancer. Thomas, an avid boxing fan (due to the movie Rocky) was inspired from the pictures of Uncle Charlie during his boxing days. He was really impressed when he learned that he was the Golden Gloves Champion. Uncle Charlie was a great man and inspired us all and he will be greatly missed.
Thomas' Condition Update:
Thomas' skin infection is slowly improving but he is still must avoid the sun and water - not an easy thing to do for a 10 year old boy during the summer. He is off the IV antibiotic and no longer has a port access. He has a few weeks before starting the intense phase of chemo again (starting on 8/28) and we hope to spend a long weekend in Cape Cod.
Monday, July 28, 2003 9:14 PM CDT Thomas finally got a chance to take a long ride on his go-kart. Thanks to all for that. The picture was taken on Sunday, 7/27/03. Doctors have put Thomas on round the clock IV antibiotic to fight a skin infection he developed (his parents have become experts in administering the IV through his port). Unfortunately, Thomas must stay out of the sun and water due to his infection.
We have no doubt that Thomas will pull through, once again, being the fighter that he his.
Please continue your thoughts and prayers.
Friday, July 25, 2003 10:46 AM CDT Thomas has a great time at the Bruce Springsteen concert thanks to his cousin Debbie. Things have been going well up to this point. Unfortunately, he now has developed a skin infection and may have to be admitted into the hospital for IV antibiotic. We are hoping that the IV can be administered at home since we would like to spend the nice weekend at home instead of in a hospital. Keep your thoughts and prayers coming.
Thank you.
Friday, July 11, 2003 8:53 PM CDT Thomas is still enjoying the summer because of the less intensive phase of chemo (once every ten days). His hair is starting to grow back and he feels well. He enjoyed the 4th of July at two barbeques and watched the fireworks at the Jersey Shore (Allenhurst). He will be going to a Bruce Springsteen concert on 7/21 (thanks to his Cousin Debbie) and is looking forward to that.
Thank you to everyone for continuing to keep Thomas in your thoughts and prayers.
Monday, June 30, 2003 12:16 AM CDT Thomas has been doing very well. He had been able to gain back approx 10 lbs. He has been eating well along with drinking nutritional shakes. He has not had chemo for nearly 3 weeks because of his appendicitis, low blood counts, and general weekness, but on the plus side it has given his body a good break for recovery. (coincidently, he was scheduled for a two week break)
Today, he must undergo a spinal tap and begin his chemo again. Fortunately, this is the lighter phase of his treatment so he only requires one treatment every ten days. In late August, he will resume the intensive phase of treatment and will finish up the intense treatment in late September/October. It will be 2 1/2 years of maintenance treatments from there on.
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. Please continue.
Thursday, June 19, 2003 11:17 AM CDT Thomas is still home and doing well. His appetite is slowly coming back and, in typical Thomas fashion, he craves the spiciest foods. Yesterday, he had three tacos with Louisiana Hot Sauce. Eating regular foods in conjunction with his nightly feedings via his tube ensures us that he is getting proper nutrition. In fact, he is starting to gain back some of his weight.
Hopefully, Thomas will feel well enough this weekend to take out his go-kart.
Friday, June 13, 2003 4:39 PM CDT THOMAS CAME HOME TODAY...Although he still requires a feeding tube (at least through Tuesday) doctors felt Thomas was well enough to come home.
He has his old personality back and he said he feels well.
Tuesday, June 10, 2003 5:37 PM CDT Thomas is still in the hospital. He continues to have no appetite for food so his doctors decided to put him on a feeding tube, which he is not comfortable with (who would be). We keep trying to push him to eat regular foods but he has no desire to, hopefully that will change over the next few days. What's keeping him from going home are his low blood counts and they won't rise without nutrition - the reason for the tubes.
Please continue your prayers for Thomas.
Thursday, June 5, 2003 9:50 AM CDT APPENDICITIS!!!
Doctors ordered a CT Scan yesterday, because of Thomas' continued fevers and nausea and discovered that he has appendicitis. We were made aware of this late last night and the surgery was completed earlier this morning. To no surprise, Thomas came through with flying colors. He continues to amaze everyone with his positive spirits.
Monday, June 2, 2003 11:38 AM CDT Thomas is still in the hospital. The doctors are waiting for his blood counts to rise - over the weekend they started creeping up.
His apetite is still not where it should be and they are giving him stimulants to help. He has this week off from chemotherapy so hopefully his body will have time to get back to where it should be.
We are hoping he comes home tomorrow so pls keep him in your thoughts and prayers tonight....
Friday, May 30, 2003 4:39 PM CDT Thomas is still here in the hospital and will mostly be here throughout the weekend. He has three things that are not in his favor..His fever keeps coming back (going up and down), his blood counts are very low, and he is still not eating well due to nausea.
To stay positive...he does not have any chemo treatments scheduled for the upcoming week and a half which will, hopefully, allow him to get some relief..
Wednesday, May 28, 2003 8:46 AM CDT It's been a tough week for Thomas. His blood counts were very low resulting in three separate transfusions. Last night he spiked a fever and had to be admitted into the hospital where he is now. Unfortunately, he must stay in for a minimum of two days. The chemo treatments have taken a toll on him as well, he now weighs 20lbs less than he did before he was diagnosed and his appetite is gone.
Please continue to keep him in your thoughts and prayers.
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 10:52 AM CDT On Monday, Thomas had to have his weekly treatment. Unfortunately, his blood counts were very low so he needed to have a transfusion which lasted until 10pm. When he woke up on Tuesday he was a like a new person - cheerful and full of energy. It's amazing what a few pints of blood can do.
The doctors said that since his counts and immune system are so low that it probably is not a good idea to send him back to school for a while.
Again, thank you to everyone for your concern and prayers.
Monday, May 12, 2003 3:08 PM CDT Thomas is doing pretty well. He was able to attend a few parties over the weekend (two communions and Mother's day). In fact, he had so much energy, weekend activities included:
1. serving to win 8 points in a volleyball game (boys vs. girls).
2. a small shopping spree at Toys R Us and Spellbinders Surf Shop at the Jersey Shore.
He received his treatment today and did very well.
Thanks again for everyone's support and prayers.
Tuesday, May 6, 2003 12:45 AM CDT Thomas went back on his treatment shedule yesterday and today. No real suprises other than the fact that his parents had to administer his IV at home (add nursing to Frank & Barb's list of skills). It allowed Thomas to be in his own bed which was good for his spirits.
Today's treatment went well and the doctor said his blood counts were normal at the stage he is in.
Sounds like a broken record, but thank you to everyone for all your support.
Thursday, May 1, 2003 11:04 AM CDT Thomas has not been poked with a needle for just over a week. His treatment was pushed off a week due to his low white blood count. The doctors said this is completely normal. We think it's good since it gives his body a rest from the constant bombardment of chemo. Everyday since he has been home from the hospital has been an improvement - although it did take until Tuesday of this week for that to happen.
Barb and the kids did manage a few days of R&R at Long Beach Island, and a boat ride on the "Corcoran Yacht"- (Bob Corcoran a good family friend).
His appetite is back and his energy level seems to be getting back to normal as well. The next visit to the doctor will be on Monday (5/5) where he'll receive another round of chemo.
Someone said you have to take one step at a time, or one day at a time and for today - Thomas is back to his old self. In fact, Thomas is strong enough to sit down and start writing long overdue thank you cards - something we're sure he is looking forward to.
Once again, we can't complete a journal without thanking everyone for their support and prayers.
Tuesday, April 22, 2003 3:05 PM CDT Thomas will be coming home tonight :) :) :).
In fact, the doctors' moved his spinal tap procedure up one day (to today) so he will not have to be poked, prodded or bugged for a week. We plan on spending quiet time at home and a possible trip to Long Beach Island.
Thank you to everyone for your thoughts, prayers, cards, gifts etc. It's amazing how many people Thomas has touched.
I would also like to send a special thank you to Sharon Brown who ran the Boston Marathon yesterday on behalf of Thomas. As unbelievable as it sounds, she ran the full 26 miles and despite wanting to stop, her thoughts of Thomas' courageous battles kept her going.
She managed to get enough pledges to raise alot of money for Thomas' fund. Anyone interested in pledging ($1 - $5 mile x 26 miles) can email: robtom578@yahoo.com
Saturday, April 19, 2003 2:01 PM CDT Thomas is anxiously waiting to be discharged from the hospital (if everything goes as planned, he should be out on Monday). Physically he is feeling OK, but it's obvious that he wants to go home.
We hope everyone has a Happy Easter and please continue your thoughts & prayers for Thomas.
Frank's cousin Debbie Naparano took it upon herself to get the blood donor process established (thanks Deb). Anyone interested please send email to her directly - Thank you.
DebbieNap@comcast.net
Tuesday, April 15, 2003 1:30 PM CDT Unfortunately, when Leukemia patients have a fever during treatment they must be hospitalized. Thomas has been in the hospital since Friday (4/11) and may be there through Easter. The doctors are trying to isolate the source of infection and believe it to be from the port that was put in a week or so ago.
The doctors did say that this type of issue does occur and is "standard" with patients.
Being that Thomas may be in the hospital for Easter we are praying that he will have a speedy recovery and be home early.
On another note, Thomas has had 3 blood transfusions and the doctors now said that they can use donated blood from friends & relatives. His blood type is A positive and we are in the process of setting up a procedure for people to donate. In the interim, please reply to: robtom578@yahoo.com to let me know if you are A+ and interested in donating. Thank you.
Friday, April 11, 2003 6:33 PM CDT Thomas had a slight fever, chills and headached today. Because he has a port in his chest, he must be admitted into the hospital for 2 days. This is a precaution to fend off any potential infection which can occure with a port. Thomas was looking forward to riding his go-kart this weekend but now he has to wait until he gets out.
Wednesday, April 9, 2003 12:52 AM CDT It's been a while since the last update. Thomas is going through an intense period of treatment, but in classic Thomas style he continues his positive attitude. He's been taking numerous medications (orally, shots). Last Thursday, Thomas' had to get another IV but his veins were so small that after six tries, the doctors decided to put a port in Thomas' chest. The port is like a big target for needles. One end of the port connects to a major artery and the other is like the size of a quarter with a rubber seal. This way, they can give Thomas his IV through the port and not have to "dig" around for a good vein. Thomas was kindof happy to have the port since it meant less needles but unfortunately, he has to have a shot every day from a visiting nurse for this month.
For a kid with so much disruption in his life, and one whose greatest fears was needles, Thomas is doing OK. He is our hero and we can't say enough about him.
Keep it up T-Man.
Monday, March 31, 2003 10:54 AM CST Thomas was doing well late last week and over the weekend. The latest bone marrow test (last Wed.) went well and the results were encouraging. He is temporarily being weened off of steroids so he does tire easily. He did go back to school today and we hope to have him back for a majority of the week. His positive attitude and strong courage continues to make Thomas an inspiration to us all.
Thanks again.
Monday, March 24, 2003 3:08 PM CST It's been a tough few days. Thomas had a chemo injection last Wednesday and was fine until yesterday. We had to rush him to the hospital late last night and stayed until late this morning for severe back pains. They attribute the "muscle spasms" to his chemo and provided him with morphine for the pain. Hopefully, we will not go through much more of this pain. We also found out from his doctor that Thomas will need to endure approx. 20 more bone marrow/spinal taps - as you could imagine he was not happy to hear this. The next one is scheduled for this Wednesday.
On a positive note, the doctor did say that she is very pleased with Thomas' performance to date.
For his fellow students, Thomas will not be back in school this week....Please keep him in your prayers.
Thank you.
Thursday, March 20, 2003 1:19 PM CST Thomas went back to school today for a half day. His class welcomed him with a round of applause and he greated them with a classic Thomas smile. When I picked him up he told me how much he missed every one of his classmates and teachers.
Tuesday's doctor's appointment went well and we learned about the near term treatment for Thomas. Obviously, he is in for a long course of treatments (3 years), but if everything goes as well as it has it will pass quickly.
I know this is repetitive but I can't thank everyone enough for all of the support.
Saturday, March 15, 2003 3:52 PM CST Thomas is very happy to be home with his family and sleeping in his own bed. We arrrived home yesterday to find a bunch of Thomas' friends on the front lawn with balloons awaiting his return.
Today, we took Thomas to the barber shop to shave what was left of his hair. Believe it or not, his head is perfectly shaped and he looks great.
The doctor told us that Thomas will receive 6 months of intense chemotherapy with a total of 3 years maintenance. We decided to have the treatments at a closer hospital (NJ) and one that his doctors recommended - Robert Wood University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. They have the largest pediatric oncology unit in NJ.
More on his treatments when we take him to Robert Wood on Tuesday..
Friday, March 14, 2003 11:03 AM CST THOMAS IS COMING HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We should be home in Chatham by late afternoon (3:00pm).
Thursday, March 13, 2003 10:32 AM CST There have been many questions surrounding Thomas' release from the hospital. Unfortunately, the Doctors cannot give us an exact date & time for release since it is hinged upon Thomas' blood count levels. These levels fluctuate and need to remain constant and at certain levels for his release to occur. He could come home tomorrow, Saturday, Sunday, Monday or Tuesday...Rest assured I will post a message as soon as we hear the news.
I know this sounds like a broken record, but I wanted to, once again, thank everyone (family,friends,classmates,St Pats school staff,fellow parishioners,neighbors,etc.) for all of the support and prayers we have received. Keep those prayers coming.
God Bless you all.
Wednesday, March 12, 2003 11:52 AM CST The doctors say in order for Thomas to go home he must be infection free. For that to happen, they placed Thomas on antibiotics for two weeks - tomorrow will mark two weeks..He then must be monitored for three days and cannot show signs of infection (fever, etc.) for those three days.
This puts Sunday as the potential release day... They also said that if Thomas builds up enough white blood cells on his own before the 3 day period, he could leave earlier (Saturday)... To be conservative, it would be best to say that Thomas should be coming home within the next week. Any changes to this can then be viewed upon as a positive development.
Thank you to all for your continued thoughts and prayers.
Monday, March 10, 2003 5:27 PM CST GOOD NEWS!!! THOMAS' BONE BIOSPY REVEALED LESS THAN 5% BAD CELLS. THIS MEANS THAT HIS TREATMENT WILL INVOLVE 6 MONTHS OF INTENSE TREATMENT WITH 3 YEARS OF MAINTENANCE. ALTHOUGH THIS SOUNDS EXTREME ITS MUCH BETTER THAN THE ALTERNATIVES.
THERE'S STILL A LONG ROAD AHEAD BUT IT'S POSITIVE NEWS LIKE THIS THAT WE FOCUS ON.
ONCE AGAIN, WE WANT TO THANK EVERYONE FOR THEIR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS SINCE THE DOCTORS SAID THAT HIS RESPONSE TO THE TWO WEEKS OF CHEMO HAVE BEEN "SUPER".
PS
Thanks St Pats students for all of the cards and messages. I miss everyone and hope to see you soon.
Monday, March 10, 2003 5:27 PM CST GOOD NEWS!!! THOMAS' BONE BIOSPY REVEALED LESS THAN 5% BAD CELLS. THIS MEANS THAT HIS TREATMENT WILL INVOLVE 6 MONTHS OF INTENSE TREATMENT WITH 3 YEARS OF MAINTENANCE. ALTHOUGH THIS SOUNDS EXTREME ITS MUCH BETTER THAN THE ALTERNATIVES.
THERE'S STILL A LONG ROAD AHEAD BUT IT'S POSITIVE NEWS LIKE THIS THAT WE FOCUS ON.
ONCE AGAIN, WE WANT TO THANK EVERYONE FOR THEIR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS SINCE THE DOCTORS SAID THAT HIS RESPONSE TO THE TWO WEEKS OF CHEMO HAVE BEEN "SUPER".
Thursday, March 6, 2003 7:46 PM CST THOMAS IS OUR HERO...WE POSTED MORE PICTURES WITH HIS BROTHERS AND SISTER AND YOU LOOK AT HIM AND COULD NOT HAVE GUESSED THAT HE HAS HAD TWO WEEKS OF CHEMOTHERAPY. TOMORROW'S TEST RESULT WILL DETERMINE HIS FUTURE TREATMENTS SO PLEASE PRAY FOR POSITIVE RESULTS.
TAKE A LOOK AT THE PHOTOS AND ENJOY.
ONCE AGAIN EVERYONE, THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING.
Thursday, March 6, 2003 7:46 PM CST Thomas came out of his procedure late this afternoon. The doctors came to our room at 8:00pm to discuss the lab results. Evidently, the results came out exactly the same as Wednesday's results. However, there are one set of results which will not be available until Monday afternoon. The doctor said the fact that the results are coming out so negative (meaning there are no bad cells in his marrow) makes them skeptical but they say that it is positive skepticism. The frustrating part: we have to wait until Wednesday to be 100% positive vs. 95%.
Keep those prayers coming!!! They are working. And we feel that two tests with similar results is good news.
Wednesday, March 5, 2003 1:23 PM CST Update from today's bone marrow test. The doctor said "Great news with an asterisk". He feels that the bad cells in Thomas' bone marrow were so low the he is questioning the accuracy of the test. He went on to say that all things are pointing in the right direction: his spleen and liver shrunk, the mass in his chest is almost gone and his white blood cell count (which was up to 212,000) is normal.
Please continue your prayers through Friday since this is what the next steps are:
-Thomas must go through the bone marrow and spinal tests again tomorrow. But to get a even more accurate reading, he must have a core of his marrow extracted. These test results will be available Friday.
I feel that everyone's thoughts and prayers have done such a great job so far so please keep them coming. Thomas still continues to have that great big smile on his face and can't wait to get home in his own bed.
We will be moving rooms again (for the 5th time) to the 7th floor - North. That's it for now.
Thank you to everyone for your support, I don't know how anyone could handle this situation without such support. May God bless each and everyone of you.
Tuesday, March 4, 2003 5:17 PM CST Today Thomas had a good day. He looks great and has the same glowing smile that makes Thomas so special. Tomorrow is D-Day. One more procedure and test which will determine Thomas' prognosis and treatments. Please say a prayer for him tonight.
On a lighter note, the hospital broadcasts BINGO @2:00 every Tues & Thurs and lucky Thomas won twice. They announced his name throughout the hospital and he was able to pick out two prizes. It's amazing how little things like that bring a glow to his face. This place is truly amazing for kids they provide arts/crafts, music therapy complete with 10 instruments, and even a teacher. That's right Thomas cannot escape school. He meets with his teacher everyday for one hour which is equal to one full day at class. She can't replace Miss A (Thomas' teacher at St Pats) but the one hour = one full day thing really makes him happy.
With God's grace I will report back to you tomorrow with the positive results. Take care.
Monday, March 3, 2003 7:40 PM CST Hello everyone, this is Thomas' dad. Thomas is doing very well. He loved all of the cards and gifts from everyone. Especially the DVD player which the 4th grade class worked so hard to earn for him.
He asked if this hospital visit could count towards his NJ visitation social studies project, even though he's in PA ;)
We do have internet access in the patient area but it is shared so we will try to view messages at least once a day.
Thanks again for all your help and please keep Thomas in your thoughts & prayers.
Friday, February 28, 2003 7:54 PM CST With a heavy and hopeful heart I report...
Monday, February 24th Thomas was admitted to the hospital after complaining of fatigue, a pain in his side and blood tests showing an extremely high white blood cell count. Tuesday morning he was transported via helicopter to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. He was diagnosed with Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and began treatment on Tuesday.
Thomas is doing really well with his treatment. He is playing nintendo, watching cartoons and resting; most importantly he is fighting a mighty fight which he WILL WIN!
Please join with his family and friends in prayer for Thomas' fast and furious recovery. May the outpouring of love and support for the entire Peterpaul family carry them through this difficult time. May God continue to hold them in the palm of his hand.
Posted with Love from Kathy Marshall
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