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Shannon Renee'
This page is to keep you informed on Shannon and our family.
Shannon was born with an immune system deficiency. At the age of 18 months we found out it was called Hypogammaglobulinemia. She suffered numerous infections from birth to age three.
On May 5th, 1994 at the age of three, Shannon was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, Pre-B cell, high risk. She underwent 28 months of intense chemotherapy, along with cranial radiation.
This past June 6,2008 she reached her 14 year mark remission!
On On April 28, 2005, at age 14 Shannon was having health problem, and diagnosed as having Dilated Cardiomyopaty of the heart.
Shannon has long-term effects from all of her health problems, which include Endocrine insufficiency, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and because of long-term steroid use bone and muscle problems.
Shannon just celebrated her 18th birthday and is in her senior year of school.
Journal
Tuesday, May 5, 2009 9:00 AM CDT 
***New pictures on photo page!
I woke up this morning, and it hit me. Today is May 5th. It has been 15 years. Fifteen years that has changed our lives, and our family.
Fifteen years ago this morning, I heard the most heart wrenching scream coming from upstairs...from Carrie. "MOM, Shannon collapsed on the floor". My heart went in my throat...and I went running. The day felt like a tornado spinning out of control. I never, in my life, thought by the end of the day, I would be told our three year old had Leukemia.
The strange thing is, today, Shannon is home from school. Not feeling well at all, and a very sore back. It is soooooo hard not to drag her to the doctor...just in case. But, looking back, and looking forward, we try to not over react at every ache and pain. Sometimes that isn't easy...like days it happens on May 5th.
Today, Shannon is 18 years of age. She is a Senior in High school and graduates in June. She has been accepted to two colleges, and we are figuring which is the best for her.
Fifteen years ago...I never thought she would be a Senior in High School. We were told, with her type of cancer and diagnosis of high risk...that it was very unlikely she would survive five years. But..she did. Yes, we have struggles, daily medications and long term issues. But, she is here, she is a flurishing....she is beautiful. And yes, some days a total pain in the...behind. But thats what being a "normal" kid is all about, isn't it?
Next week, Shannon goes to the Prom at her boyfriend Michaels school. And in June, her Prom at her school. This year...it has all new meaning.
I love you Noodle!
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