History

Saturday, February 4, 2006 5:30 PM CST

We're all getting ready for the Superbowl here in our house. We all want the STEELERS to win!!! We think they can do it.
I went to my cousins' birthday party today!!! Cameron was 8 yesterday and Mason was 1 today. I had a good time but was ready to leave after a couple hours because I didn't feel well. I have a sore throat. I had to go to the emergency room a couple nights ago because I had a fever. My mommy and daddy can't be too careful when I get sick. It looked like it was just a cold, but it sure got me down.
I'm still doing well. Thanks for checking up on me!!!

Sunday, December 25, 2005 6:39 AM CST

Christmas has finally arrived. We have a lot to be thankful for on this blessed day. Brodie is still NED and has grown a head full of hair. Doesn't he look great. He had a wonderful time Christmas Eve at his aunt's house with all his cousins. Check out the new pictures with all of them. He'll be sure to get many more presents today.

Thank all of you for your continued prayers and thinking of Brodie!!!

Friday, December 9, 2005 7:24 PM CST

just posted Halloween pictures of Brodie and Blaire.

The last picture is my two cousins on my dad's side.

Friday, December 2, 2005 6:11 AM CST

Brodie continues to be a healthy 3 year old. He has a full head of hair and I'll post pictures as soon as I get some new ones.

His sissy, Blaire, is now enjoying dance classes. She was in the Christmas parade and performed at the Fort Steuben Mall (mainly waving at her family).

His mom and dad are still blessed with Brodie's progress.
They want to thank you for your continued prayers.

Monday, August 29, 2005 6:34 PM CDT

I know it's been a while since I posted but I thought I'd let everyone know that Brodie had a full body scan last week to make sure he was still NED (no evidence of disease) and the results were negative!!!!
Wonderful news again!!!!
Thanks for all the prayers.

Friday, June 17, 2005 8:30 PM CDT

Brodie and his family got back yesterday and they had a wonderful time. Brodie was dancing around and having a great time. He's starting to become the little boy he used to be.
This wonderful dream trip would not have been possible without the great Make a Wish organization. Brodie and his family thank them for EVERYTHING they have done!!!! It was truly a dream.

Sunday, June 5, 2005 9:32 AM CDT

I know it's been a long time since anything was posted but consider that a GOOD SIGN.

Last week Brodie and his family spent an evening with Ted Arneaut at Mountaineer Racetrack. Ted has graciously sponsored Brodie and his immediate family to go to Disney World. All this was made possible by Make a Wish Foundation.

A limo will pick them up at their home the night before and take them to a motel by the airport. They will fly into Orlando and a limo will take them to a car rental. All of their admissisions will be paid for. Brodie will receive a present every day he's there. What a nice gesture for a little boy who's little life began almost living in the hospital.

Another thing to remember is the Oldies Dance planned for Friday, August 12th to be held at the Serbian Culture Center in Weirton. Please plan to attend and tell all your friends!
Tickets will be availble soon. They will be $15. a person or $25 a couple.
I will try to keep this more updated with the dance information.

Wednesday, April 20, 2005 9:32 PM CDT

OLDIES DANCE BENEFIT

There is an oldies dance benefit being planned for Brodie. I will post the details as soon as I get them. Nona Angela, Denise Chappel, and several other people are involved in the planning. This will probably be the last benefit (hopefully forever).

Thursday, April 14, 2005 8:15 PM CDT

MORE GOOD NEWS!!!

BRODIE WENT TO THE DOCTOR YESTERDAY (something was wrong with my internet, so I couldn't update yesterday) AND HE IS IN 100 percent REMISSION!!!!!

Tuesday, April 5, 2005 6:20 PM CDT

Brodie had a fever last night. So, they called the doctor today and he had to be admitted to the hospital. His mommy and daddy thought yesterday was going to be the end of the hospital for a while. Yesterday ended his radiation treatments.
They were checking his blood cultures for problems. Amber thinks it might just be in the line and hopefully they can remove it (they thought it would have been removed by now) and the infection will go away.

Wednesday, March 30, 2005 3:07 PM CST

GOOD NEWS!!!
THE DOCTOR READ BRODIES RESULTS AND HE'S CONSIDERED NED
NO EVIDENCE of DISEASE!!!!!
YIPPEE......happy birthday to me!!!!!
Isn't that great news????!!!!!??????

Saturday, March 26, 2005 8:29 AM CST

Brodie will get his CAT scan and bone scan on Monday and will get the results then, too.
Brodie wasn't feeling too well on Easter Sunday.
The results for the test aren't available for a couple days.

Thursday, March 17, 2005 5:00 PM CST

Brodie started his radiation today and he was soooooo goooooood. He just laid there because he has to be in the room by himself for about 45 SECONDS. They told him if he didn't lay still he would have to be sedated and he layed there so still, like a little trooper. What a good patient Brodie is. The hospital staff couldn't believe how well this new little 3 yr. old just laid there!!!
His counts were up. He goes back again tomorrow.

HAPPY ST. PATRICKS DAY!!!

Tuesday, March 15, 2005 3:39 PM CST

Mommy took Brodie and Blaire to the Marland Heights pool playground today and played!!!
Brodie has to start radiation Thursday for 12 straight week days. They said he might get a little bit sick because it will be right in his stomach. His counts have to be up for that to happen and they're up but they haven't stayed up. From Good Friday until April 7th he has to have a bone scan, CT scan and his bone marrow checked again. Hopefully, after all that they they'll take out his port.

Saturday, March 5, 2005 7:41 AM CST

GUESS WHO'S HOME?????

3829 Lindberg Way
304-797-7998

Wednesday, March 2, 2005 9:36 AM CST

Brodie's doing really good. Today his platelet count is 56,000 which is really good. Its only been in the 30's once and he's been getting them every other day so this is a good sign that they are coming up on their own. The doctor said something about surgery maybe tomorrow to get his other line out then home before his b-day, which brings up my next subject:
BRODIE'S 3rd BIRTHDAY!!!!
IT'S SATURDAY MARCH 5TH
If you get a chance to buy him a card or if you already have one, his home address is 3829 Lindberg Way, Weirton, WV 26062. He would love receiving a lot of cards.
YAY FOR BRODIE (and Amber)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sunday, February 27, 2005 7:06 PM CST

The news today is Brodie should be coming home from the hospital on Wednesday. They said that was the earliest anyone would be coming home after a transplant.

He's still not eating or drinking too well. He's afraid it's going to hurt his mouth so he doesn't want to. They give him nutrition at night while he's sleeping. Everyone up there knows and loves Brodie. He recognizes all the workers and their chores. He was in a pretty good mood today.

His little legs hurt from not walking on them for over 3 weeks. They may try to give him physical therapy tomorrow if he's agreeable. Amber doesn't think that's going to happen. She told them to tell her what to do and she'll get him to do it. She's such a good mommy. Maybe she'll become a nurse someday!!! Wouldn't she make a great one

Tuesday, February 22, 2005 10:02 AM CST

GREAT NEWS AGAIN!!!!!

Brodie is doing so good, they said if he was eating that he could go home!!!! It is still going to take a few days for his mouth to get better. But he looks real good. He stayed up almost all day yesterday and was sitting in the chair for a while. The doctors said in about 2 days he can start going to the playroom again, once his ANC is above 500 for
3 straight days and it was 846 today so in 2 more days he can be set free to play.

Monday, February 21, 2005 7:14 AM CST

For those of you who don't read the messages, here is Amber's from yesterday.

"Hello everyone this is mom from the hospital. Today is a good day Brodie's counts are starting to come back up slowly but surely!!! He is one tough trooper let me tell you he is the strongest little boy that I know and I'm just not saying that because he is my son he does so well in here letting the Docs and the Nurses do what they need to do and just hanging in there like he really knows whats going on. Thank you to all of you that keep checking the web-site on a regular basis and for all the cards we are receiving!! That is very kind, and to all of you that are having others send card everyone is so sweet!! Still needing lots of prayers it not over yet but we know that god is on our side this time. Thank you again, I'll write again soon!!"

Wednesday, February 16, 2005 7:23 PM CST

Brodie is doing better. He is coughing up mucas. They lowered his morphine yesterday and he's doing a lot better today than he did yesterday. He was itching a lot and they said it was probably from the morphine.
His fever keeps breaking and then going back up. The doctors said that was a good sign.
His counts have already been rock bottom and within the next couple days his counts should come up and they should see an improvement.

Monday, February 14, 2005 8:58 PM CST

Well, Brodie had a bad day yesterday. His heart rate really accelerated pretty high. It has come down some today but not where it should be.
His little face is swollen from the preservatives leaking out of his veins into his system. (I think I have that right) He has a fever and they have increased his morphine a couple times to keep him out of constant pain.
Please remember him and pray especially hard for the little guy.
Remember Scott and especially Amber. They're so strong and need to keep their strength for him.
Don't forget to send him a card and thank you to those who already have.
Hopefully, this will soon be all a blur.

Sunday, February 13, 2005 5:32 PM CST

Brodie has had a fever for the last two days. He has bad sores in his mouth. He wants to eat but can't because it hurts. His counts are going down (they're supposed to) and he's very listless. Poor little fella just lays there and when he's not sleeping, he's crying. They had to increase his morphine yesterday. His counts have to go way down before they can come up.

Friday, February 11, 2005 2:56 PM CST

Brodie had his transplant today and the doctors are very pleased with how everything went. He's watching movies but he's very tired. He has some sores in his mouth from all the chemo.
Try and send him a card. They treat the transplant day like a celebration. He had his grandparents and aunt there for the special occasion!!!!!

Check out the new pictures.

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 9:35 PM CST

Brodie is all finished with his chemo.
He will get his bone marrow transplant on Friday at 10:30.
He has a lot of special instructions to follow. His mom will be busy trying to make sure all his needs are met.
Hopefully he'll only have to stay no longer than a couple weeks after that. That puts his release date around the 25th of February. His third birthday is March 5th.
There are new pictures posted. One of Brodie and his Dad and one of Brodie and his Mom and the third one is a picture of his newest cousin who is on the sixth floor of the same hospital he is in. He will get to go home probably this week-end. His name is Mason Mitchell Bailey.

Monday, February 7, 2005 8:34 PM CST

Tomorrow morning Brodie finishes up with his strong doeses of chemo. So far, he hasn't gotten sick and is really tolerating it well. They will wait for three days and then they will proceed with the bone marrow transplant. It is frozen and they will put it in a bucket of water by his bed to let it thaw. It will be injected intravenously. He may have to stay up to 3 weeks after that.

Friday, February 4, 2005 8:29 AM CST

Well, today's the day everything starts for Brodie's bone marrow transplant. He will be allowed in the playroom if no one else is in there.
Amber sent me the room number which is 8627 and her phone number in the room is 412-692-8693. I'm sure she will welcome all calls. It will be a long stay but it will be worth it.
Wednesday night all the grandparents gathered at Brodie's house and gave him and Blaire a surprise birthday party. Brodie was really happy....so was Blaire. Brodie's birthday is March 5th and Blaire's is February 17th.
There's a link for Brodie's address and phone number.

Tuesday, February 1, 2005 8:35 PM CST

Brodie goes in the hospital Thursday for his auto transfusion. Before the doctors do the procedure, he will need a strong dose of chemo to destroy all the old cells. After the transfusion he will be in isolation for at least 28 days. Visitation will be restricted to immediate family. This is to prevent any type of infection. Once he's out of the hospital there will be three months of restrictions.

Thursday, January 27, 2005 3:55 PM CST

Today Brodie went to the doctor. All the results of his hearing, kidney and CAT scan were all good. His hearing has been affected slightly and the doctor said he wouldn't be able to be a pilot. His high pitch was affected.
Monday they will put in a medi-port and do the bone marrow biopsy again just to make sure his bone marrow is clear. And then Thursday he will have his bone marrow transplant if everything is clear.
Prayers are needed again, please!!!!

Monday, January 24, 2005 7:23 PM CST

Today's blood drive was a huge success thanks to Aunt Pam Clarke and Grandma Faith. They worked hard on making everything nice for all the donors. There were 62 donors and 25 bone marrow donors. Thanks to all who came and all who worked for this special event for Brodie. The little man was able to make it to this special event. His counts were up and he seemed to be doing just fine.

Sunday, January 9, 2005 8:47 PM CST

MORE GOOD NEWS!!!!!
THIS WILL BE BRODIE'S LAST CHEMO!!!!!

He's scheduled for his auto transfusion next when his blood count comes back up. After the transfusion he goes for 2 weeks of radiation. Then they send him home on the medication that helps prevent another tumor from coming!!!!

Also, don't forget the blood replenish/bone marrow drive.

Date of Drive � Monday January 24, 2005

Time of Drive � 12 pm � 7 pm

Location of Drive � Dennis Hall (across from First Nazarene Church, under the water tower)

475 Colliers Way
Weirton, Wva. 26062

To Schedule Appointment, please call:
Pam Clarke @ 304-723-1522
Faith Nichols @ 304-748-0323
Rachel Bennett @ 412-209-7241 or e-mail rbennett@itxm.org

Sunday, January 9, 2005 8:42 PM CST

Friday, January 7, 2005 9:22 AM CST

Thursday, January 6, 2005 6:25PM CST

CORRECTION: BRODIE STARTED CHEMO YESTERDAY. THEN HE'LL HAVE RADIATION.

Also, don't forget the blood replenish/bone marrow drive.

Date of Drive � Monday January 24, 2005

Time of Drive � 12 pm � 7 pm

Location of Drive � Dennis Hall (across from First Nazarene Church, under the water tower)

475 Colliers Way
Weirton, Wva. 26062

To Schedule Appointment, please call:
Pam Clarke @ 304-723-1522
Faith Nichols @ 304-748-0323
Rachel Bennett @ 412-209-7241 or e-mail rbennett@itxm.org

Wednesday, December 29, 2004 3:32 PM CST

Good News!!!
Brodie went to the doctor today and all the cells in the tumor were completely killed by the chemo. It was totally INACTIVE!!!
The medical term is that it was necrotic. The next step is a chemo treatment next week just in case there might be any loose cancer cells anywhere.
Then there will be two weeks of daily radiation treatments followed by another chemo.
The next major undertaking is a bone marrow transplant in February. Brodie will probably be in the hospital on March 5th, his 3rd birthday, because the transplant requires 28 days of isolation. Amber will still be able to stay with him. We're not sure right now if he's not allowed visitors wearing proper sanitized garments.
He's walking better now.

Tuesday, December 28, 2004 2:05 PM CST

There will be a blood replenishment/bone marrow drive for Brodie on Monday, January 24th at the Dennis Fellowship Hall. It is located across the street from the First Nazarene Church of Weirton at 475 Colliers Way. It's a tan building by the water tower. The hours are 12 to 7 and you must have an ID.
Any questions can be directed to Pam Clarke at 723-1522, Faith Nichols at 748-0323 or Rachael Bennett at 412-209-7241.
Also, there are only a few days left for the Dine and Donate for Brodie at Eat and Park. I noticed someone has been busy passing out the coupons at the Kroger parking lot. Hopefully, this has been a sucessful fund raiser (I'm sure it has!)
Brodie goes to the doctor tomorrow for a check up.

Sunday, December 26, 2004 10:31 AM CST

Well, Christmas is over and time to move onto a new year. Brodie is home but his leg has been bothering him and he's been having a hard time walking. He has a dr appointment on Wednesday so maybe they'll know more then.
Brodie and Blaire got lots of presents thanks to a lot of generous people.

Wednesday, December 22, 2004 4:11 PM CST

Brodie came home from the hospital yesterday. He was complaining of one of his legs hurting and the doctor ordered an MRI. The doctor thought he was laying on it during his operation which lasted approximately six and a half hours. He's been complaining of it hurting today but other than that, he's fine. So, he should be home for Christmas. He will have a nice one thanks to all the generous people who have helped the family.

Friday, December 17, 2004 5:34 PM CST

GOOD NEWS!!!!
THE OPERATION IS OVER AND BRODIE IS STILL IN RECOVERY!!
The doctor had to remove 2 lymph nodes and removed all of the tumor without bothering the kidney.
The doctor was 100% satisfied with how the surgery went.

Friday, December 17, 2004 8:49 AM CST

Today's the day Brodie will be operated on!!

Thursday, December 9, 2004 6:40 PM CST

OK, THE NEWS WE'VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR.....
Brodie will be operated on next Friday the 17th around 11:00. They will remove the tumor and the operation is between 2 and 5 hours......
Please continue to remember him in your prayers.

Don't forget to read the previous journal for updates on fundraisers. The newest one is the spaghetti dinner this Sunday at United Methodist Church on West Street from 4-7 and the ongoing one at Eat and Park, but you have to have a coupon with you. Sometimes, the managers are kind enough to have some extra ones behind the counter, but don't count on that, bring your own and if you have extra ones, leave them on car's windshields in the parking lot.

Tuesday, December 7, 2004 5:37 PM CST

The Weirton Jaycees is sponsoring a spaghetti dinner for Brodie at the First United Methodist Church of Weirton on West Street. The dinner is from 4-7 and is $5. a plate. A special thank you to Alison Boehm, president of the Jaycees, for organizing the spaghetti dinner.
Thank you to the Weir High Volleyball team for the benefit volleyball game to be held on Wednesday, December 15, organized by Gabrielle Ferrelli. Thank you Gabrielle.
Jason Mallas from IDD Computers is selling car window stickers for $5. that say "I'm With Brodie". Thanks so much to Jason.
Patty Lounder and Mary Lou James have done incalculable good deeds to support Brodie. Many thanks to the both of you.
Thanks so much to a LOT of people working for Brodie. We owe all of you a debt of gratitude.

Pancake Breakfast for Aaron Davies
Saturday, December 11,
From: 8-11a.m.
Cost: Donations only
Where: Marland Heights Community Church (former Marland Heights Elementary)
If you need any additional information you can e-mail me or call 304-797-9739

Hi Brodie and everyone, Just wanted to remind everyone that 'Dine and Donate' is going on until January 1. As Mary Walters told you, we now have hundreds of flyers and coupons!(thank you Mary!) Please contact me if you can pass them out at your church, any other group, or just want some of our purse packtets(5 coupons stapled together to keep in your purse/car). And check out the Eat'n Park marque(spell?) which now says: "Dine and Donate for Brodie M"!
Thank you and let's get these coupons out to the public. If anyone can help distribute these on car windshields at Eat'n Park, please e-mail me (plounder@yahoo.com)
Patty Lounder
P.S. If you happen to be eating there and have a handful of coupons with you, you can put them on windshields then. Maybe put 2 or 3 on each one?

Monday, December 6, 2004 7:50 AM CST

Brodie's platelets were 80,000 and they need to be 100,000. The nurse comes today and they'll know more.

Just a reminder to go to Eat and Park and take a "Dine and Donate" coupon with you. You can pick up coupons at Madonna, Weir High, Weirton Hts. school, Libery School, St. Joseph School, St. Paul School, Curves, Particular's Hair Salon, Grantos Deli, Ted's Plaza Pharmacy, 7 Eleven, Darla's Cafe, Good Times Cafe, Country Mart and St. Joseph Church (vestibule) and also at Pet-Agree Grooming. Ten percent of your bill goes to Brodie's fund. If you have separate bills, you must have a coupon for each check and they don't have any extra coupons on the premises.

Tuesday, November 30, 2004 6:44 PM CST

The children's department of The Weirton Church of the Nazarene is having a candle fund raiser. Anyone interested in buying a candle call Faith (Brodie's grandma) at 723-0323.
Also, don't forget to eat at Eat'n'Park until the end of December. Pick up some coupons at Pet Agree Grooming, St. Joseph School, Ted's Pharmacy, 7 Eleven, Curves and Particulars Hair Salon. Whatever the total of your bill is, Eat'nPark will donate 10% of that to Brodie's fund.
If you would like some coupons delivered to you call me and I'll run them to you. Penny 797-1821.
I saw Brodie today and he was running around in circles. He was full of energy and it was good seeing him so happy. Keep up the prayers!

Sunday, November 28, 2004 6:25 PM CST

Brodie is home and his counts are coming up. They're going to operate soon and remove the tumor but the stem cell transplant will probably be done after Christmas. He will be quarantined for 28 days when that procedure is done.
Don't forget to stop by one of the sponsors and pick up a coupon to eat at Eat'N'Park. 10% of the proceeds will go toward Brodie's fund if you turn in a coupon!!!! Pick up some extra ones and give them to your friends and family.
Hope you didn't eat too much for Thanksgiving!!

Wednesday, November 24, 2004 8:24 AM CST

Brodie got to come home yesterday.

Sunday, November 21, 2004 8:11 PM CST

Brodie is still in the hospital but they're hoping he's better enough to get out on Monday or Tuesday. His counts are still down and his mommy is still at the Pittsburgh hospital with him.
Hopefully, I'll have more to report tomorrow and it will be good news!

Friday, November 19, 2004 10:10 PM CST

Brodie was supposed to go in the hospital this morning to get some blood to bring his counts up but ended up going to the emergency room in Pittsburgh because he had a fever. So, they decided to keep him.
More tomorrow.

Friday, November 12, 2004 5:01 PM CST

MORE GOOD NEWS!!!!
The surgeon was in today and just by looking at the CT scan he guaranteed he could remove 99% of the tumor and not have to touch anything else!!!!!!!!
Brodie has 2 enlarged nymph nodes in his stomach that the surgeon says won't be a problem removing!!!!!!!!!
Also, if you didn't read last posting......they tested the bone marrow yesterday and the preliminary results came out NEGATIVE!!!!!!!!!!
IS THIS WONDERFUL NEWS???????
WHO DO YOU SUPPOSE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS?????????

Friday, November 12, 2004 11:24 AM CST

GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!
THE PRELIMINARY RESULTS FROM THE BONE MARROW TEST CAME OUT NEGATIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!
BRODIE IS FINISHING UP HIS FOURTH ROUND OF CHEMO. THE DOCTOR SAID THE TUMOR HAS SHRUNK CONSIDERABLY. WE KNEW THAT BECAUSE BRODIE WASN'T IN PAIN. THE SURGEON IS GOING TO MAKE THE DECISION WHETHER THEY ARE GOING TO GIVE HIM ONE MORE ROUND OF CHEMO OR IF THEY'RE GOING TO REMOVE THE TUMOR
PRAISE GOD!!!!!

Friday, November 12, 2004 8:41 AM CST

They should get the results from the cat scat and the bone marrow biopsy today. Brodie did really well, again, with all the tests.
He is on chemo right now. It's his fourth round and it will be Saturday night.
The next step will be his surgery. They will do it when his counts are up from this round of chemo.

Saturday, November 6, 2004 3:50 PM CST

Well, Brodie went in the hospital on Wednesday for the doctors to take the stem cell from his marrow. They extracted 3.4 million. They need between 3 and 5 million so that was good. But, the best part is on Thursday when he was getting ready to come home from the hospital, the doctors decided to "get some more stem cells". Brodie was able to produce 12 million total. THAT'S GOOD NEWS. They will freeze it until the time might come where Brodie needs it.
He and his sister, Blaire, are going to a play tonight with Papa and Nona. Brodie is feeling pretty good.
He has to go back to the hospital on Wednesday for them to give him another round of chemo and prepare him for the surgery time.
Until then.......
PRAY some more please.

Tuesday, November 2, 2004 4:00 PM CST

Amber took Brodie to the hospital today to get more blood. They're trying to get his counts to come up and when they're halfway up the doctors are going to take bone marrow out so when Brodie needs marrow, he will have his own.
Scott found Amber a van in Wheeling and he picked it up today, thanks to the steak fry donations. They currently only have one vehicle.
I will be out of town for 3 days so nothing will be posted for at least the next 3 days.

Monday, November 1, 2004 6:05 PM CST

As far as I know, Brodie's counts were still down and he didn't go into the hospital today. No one has called me but as soon as I find out something, I'll post it. Sorry.

Friday, October 29, 2004 11:40 PM CDT

Well, tonight was the steak fry and boy do Amber and Scott have a lot of friends!!!! I think half of Wheeling was there. Amber's friends did a wonderful job organizing the dinner. Blaire had a great time. Brodie had to stay home because his counts were way too low. He has to go to the hospital in the morning to get blood and build his counts back up so he can go back to the hospital on Monday and re-evaluate what they're going to do next. They're hoping they'll be able to remove the tumor. I'll let you know more about that on Monday.
There are a few new pictures of the benefit dinner posted today.

Monday, October 25, 2004 7:52 PM CDT

Patty Lounder, a teacher at Liberty Elementary School in Weirton, has a project going and she needs the large coffee cans. If any of you out there have any empty ones can you contact her at plounder@yahoo.com so she can make arrangements to get them. She's going to place cans in businesses across Weirton.

Also, the steak fry is this Friday and I guess a couple hundred tickets have already been sold. It seems like it's going to be a huge success. I'm sure Amber's friends have been working very hard preparing for it.

Brodie is doing good so far. Keep up the prayers.

Saturday, October 23, 2004 7:26 PM CDT

Ok, Little Brodie is out of the hospital and doing well. His counts seem to be rising. He and Blaire visited Popop at his school today. They were real happy to see him. Cocoa got a nice bath today so she was clean enough to be in the house! Cocoa is a little scared of steps. Cocoa is getting bigger and BIGGER!!! He will be REAL big someday.

Not much else new for now. I'll try to get a picture of Cocoa so you can see just how big he is!!!

Friday, October 22, 2004 0:05 AM CDT

Ok, I have a couple items of interest for you.
Brodie should be getting out of the hospital tomorrow (Friday). They are going to re-evaluate the tumor to see if they can operate and remove it, after his counts all go back up. Then, they're going to re-evaluate the mass in his bone marrow to see what they're going to do about that.

Secondly, I gave wrong information about the Steak Fry.
The date is NEXT Friday the 29th and the location is Elm Grove Civic Association at 21 Sycamore Avenue located next to the Patterson Baseball field. It will be held from 6 p.m. until midnight.
Hopefully, I'll have some more pictures for you then.

Wednesday, October 20, 2004 4:40 AM CDT

Brodie had his chemo on Monday and seems to be tolerating it well. His sister went up to play with him and he was upset when she had to leave. She wasn't allowed on his floor in his room because she's too young. He went down on the 1st floor playroom with her.
No more new news to report.
Just remember the steak fry has been changed. New date-October 22nd and new location. I'm not sure of the location if someone could e-mail me so I could post it.
If I get anymore news on Brodie, I'll let you know.

Saturday, October 16, 2004 6:47 PM CDT

Brodie was admitted this morning at 7 a.m and released this evening about 7 p.m. Amber seems to think he had some food poisoning. They don't know why he was vomiting but his veins aren't the greatest from the chemo. He was here tonight so I was able to get a few more pictures.
Monday he will get his chemo. Amber thinks it might be for 5 days, but we're not real sure about that information.

Saturday, October 16, 2004 4:37 PM CDT

Brodie got really sick last night and they had to take him to Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh. No one has called me to let me know how he's doing. I can't get his number from information at the hospital because they're only in Monday through Friday. So, as I find out how he's doing, I'll let you know. Sorry.

Thursday, October 14, 2004 8:53 PM CDT

No news from anyone.
Three new pictures posted.

Tuesday, October 12, 2004 7:31 PM CDT

Brodie is home!!!!
He's been playing with his sister all day and his new guitar.
He's happy to be home with his family.
His Uncle John Henry and Aunt Christina came to visit him today from North Carolina. He was happy to see them.
He's doing fine and will go back to the hospital on Monday but til then, he's having a good time.
Check out the pictures of him and his mommy and daddy.

Monday, October 11, 2004 4:05 PM CDT

Brodie had his port inserted this afternoon. They decided not to do the chemo today. He's getting out of the hospital tomorrow. They will be doing the chemo next Monday on the 18th. Poor little guy was hungry all day and he had to wait for them to re-insert the ports. He couldn't understand why he couldn't eat and it only took them 45 minutes to do it.
I'm still waiting for the pictures and when I get them I'll post them.

Sunday, October 10, 2004 7:17 PM CDT

There seems to be a lot of people confused about Brodie's condition. The tumor has NOT moved to his brain. He does NOT have bone cancer. Please help us to correct that false information being passed around. There is a mass in his bone marrow on the left side but the doctor will be able to take the marrow from the right and transplant it there so Brodie will need no donors. He will have his third round of chemo tomorrow. The doctors will do a full scan to see if the tumor can be removed after this round of chemo. Brodie will probably still need the additional two rounds of chemo if the tumor is removed. The doctors will do that to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Brodie is responding remarkably well and the doctors couldn't be more pleased. We still need to pray for a full recovery. Brodie still has a long road ahead of him.

Saturday, October 9, 2004 5:25 PM CDT

Brodie got to go home for 4 hours!!!!!
They stopped at Dwight's and surprised him and they went to Minnie's and surprised her. He ate some of Minnie's spaghetti.
The infection came back negative today, probably because they removed the port.
He will get another pass tomorrow and they are going to Janoski's or Hosak's pumpkin farm.
He's resting comfortably now.
Monday they are re-inserting the port on the other side of his chest and they will start the chemo on Monday. The doctor will give him all his scans again and if the tumor is small enough they will remove it. PRAY FOR THAT!!!!!
If they do remove it he will probably still give him two more chemo treatments.
He went to sleep around midnight and he got up around 7:30. He only has a regular IV in his hand right now.
Amber is giving me some pictures, Patti, and I will post them as soon as I get them.
More tomorrow.......

Saturday, October 9, 2004 3:18 PM CDT

I haven't talked to anyone today about how Brodie is feeling. I tried to call at 4:30 and there was no answer. I'll try later, but if someone out there knows something, please e-mail me and I'll post it.
The number at the hospital is 412-692-8276.

Thursday, October 7, 2004 4:41 PM CDT

Brodie's infection has not gone away. They have been giving him antibiotics since he got there on Saturday. His counts have been up. They are going to remove the ports tomorrow and re-insert them on the other side in a couple days to make sure the infection is not in his blood. They don't think it is but they want to be 100% sure. His platelets are 46,000 and they need to be 100,000 before his next round of chemo.
He's playing and eating and doing all the things little kids do.
There are three more pictures of the spaghetti dinner on tonight.

Monday, October 4, 2004 2:59 PM CDT

Brodie had an infection today but that didn't seem to get him down.
Thanks to all the people who attended the spaghetti dinner last night. It was a huge success. Monica outdid herself asking for all the donations, picking them up, taking them to the church, organizing the workers and taking care of advertising. Her mother sang beautifully and did a fabulous job on the place mats. Did you notice everyone who dontated was recognized on the placemats? And her dad, how could we forget what a great job he did on cooking the sauce and the spaghetti. Who doubted his talent? NO ONE!
The servers were fabulous and didn't stop all night. The people who stayed after to clean up did an outstanding job. The people who made all the goodies. What a selection!!!! We couldn't have been so successful without one of you. THANKS A BUNCH!!!
There are a few pictures posted of people who attended. In a couple days there will be 3 new ones.
Hopefully, Brodie will be home soon.

Sunday, October 3, 2004 11:46 AM CDT

They were going to let Brodie go home because his ANC was 1740 his white count was 4.2 and his hemoglobin was 6.2, but he still had a fever at noon. They were giving him blood today and he was doing good.
More later. Watch the news at 6 (if you're not at the dinner!) They're doing a story on him on News 9.

Sunday, October 3, 2004 8:00 AM CDT

Brodie had to go into the hospital last night. His fever was 102. He doesn't seem to be feeling sick. The hospital wants them to come in if his temp gets that high for precautionary measures. Hopefully, he'll be out in a couple days. He wasn't coming to the spaghetti dinner today anyway. His blood count was still 0 which means INFECTION!!
So, they're not taking any chances. He's been in the house since his count went down.
That's all for now. I'll get an update later from Amber.

Friday, October 1, 2004 12:56 AM CDT

Brodie's temperature was down to 99 this morning. He doesn't seem to be sick. Hopefully, he won't have to make a trip to the hospital before his next chemo round.

Three more people to thank for donations to the spaghetti dinner. We're starting to get a little worried about how many people are going to show up. Not too many tickets were pre-sold. We're hoping all of you are passing the word around and people show up. We appreciate ALL of the donations. I don't think Monica had to buy too many ingredients for the dinner.

Thanks to JoAnn Ravasio (Doll) for a $50. donation
Giovanni Rossi from the Ice Plant in Steubenville for the ice.
Reisbecks Food in Steubenville for a $15. donation.

Thursday, September 30, 2004 7:49 PM CDT

Brodie is running a low grade fever, just under 102. If it reaches 102, he has to return the hospital. He is not acting sick, but cannot be running around with a fever.

Thursday, September 30, 2004 3:37 PM CDT

The home nurse came today and took Brodie's platelet count is 61,000 and is supposed to be 300,000 to 600,000. His ANC is supposed to be 1,000 to 1,500 and it is 0.
NOT GOOD.
So, needless to say, Brodie will not be at the spaghetti dinner on Sunday. Amber may come later if grandma Faith goes to the house and takes care of Brodie. They are the two people he responds to best.
The home nurse comes on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. Hopefully, Saturday the counts will be up!!

There were 2 more donors to the spaghetti dinner

Mary Walters and family donated the paper products
Lori's Pizza in Burgettstown donated lettuce and spaghetti sauce.
Thanks to all the donors!!!
Not much will have to be spent from the donations for the ingredients.

Tuesday, September 28, 2004 6:28 AM CDT

Brodie's platelet count was at 300. Remember it's supposed to be around 1500. The bad part about the chemo is it kills the good blood cells along with the bad. So, Amber and Scott are trying to keep him from getting infection. They're keeping him away from anyone who is remotely ill since he is so susceptible. Let's hope his count rises soon. Amber is a wonderful mommy and she takes care of Brodie just like he was in the hospital. Pray to God to give her the continued strength she needs during this crucial time.
Also, the spaghetti dinner is coming along. Monica hasn't stopped working on it and she needs praised when you see her. She got some more donations and here they are. Please try to patronize the donors.

Wal-Mart in Steubenville gave her $40.
The Mar-Ta-Lee Ice Cream Shop in Hopedale gave her a whopping $100.
D-Jays in Weirton gave her all the carry out containers.
Pet-Agree Grooming is donating all the tomatoes and cukes for the salad.
Lou's Fish in Hopedale $40.
Shop N Save $10.

Don't forget to bring your entire family THIS SUNDAY from 4-7.

Friday, September 24, 2004 4:18 PM CDT

Today was a GOOD day!
Brodie got to come home and he was here visiting with Popa and Blaire, so we got a few new pictures for your viewing. He got some blood last night but you would never know he just got out of the hospital. He's prancing around here like he owns the place, and guess what? He does. He can prance all he wants. He's doing remarkably well and we all couldn't be happier.

Thursday, September 23, 2004 3:02 PM CDT

Brodie is experiencing pain in his stomach. He needed to have some blood because his count was down. They're hoping he can still come home in the morning. The chemo ended today. His second round went much better than the first.
Thanks to all of you who visited his website and for leaving notes of encouragement.

Thursday, September 23, 2004 7:02 AM CDT

UPDATE......UPDATE......UPDATE......

Good News!!! Another Oncologist came in to check Brodie's stomach TWICE and COULDN'T FEEL ANYTHING!!!! WOW!!!!!! Is it the power of prayer???? I THINK SO!!!! DON'T STOP NOW!!!
Anyway, the doctor said he didn't see any reason why Brodie couldn't be released as soon as the chemo is over. So, we're looking for him to be released sometime this evening. His daddy said he was eating like a trooper yesterday, which is what the hospital worries about. So, hopefully the little fella will get home today!!!

Spaghetti dinner-October 3rd-buy your tickets so we know how many to prepare for, please.

Tuesday, September 21, 2004 8:27 PM CDT

Brodie had a really good evening. He was laughing and playing like nothing was wrong. Everyone seemed to be in good spirits.

Tuesday, September 21, 2004 2:24 PM CDT

Brodie started the chemo last night about 9ish and it will run for 3 straight days. He was feeling a little nauseous and eliminated some dinner, but then was smiling again. That's probably the hardest part-when he is feeling ill and doesn't smile.
The doctors think he may only need one more round of chemo before removing the tumor from his kidney. Let's pray they're right.
Brodie made a new friend, Cedric!! It's nice to have friends in the hospital. Don't get me wrong, it's wonderful to have family there, but he has a little fella who can relate to him.
Hopefully, there won't be much more news, but I will update again soon, either tonight or tomorrow.

Monday, September 20, 2004 8:57 AM CDT

Well, today is the day we've not been looking forward to, but it has to be.
Brodie is getting his second round of chemo today. We're all hoping and praying he's not half as sick as the first round. He seems to be back to his normal kid self....playing....eating....laughing and having a good time. Hopefully, he'll rebound from this one faster.
I'll keep you posted if you promise to keep him in your prayers. (and I know you all will)

Thursday, September 16, 2004 9:23 PM CDT

Hi,
Well, haven't posted for a while and you can figure NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS. Brodie has been playing and doing most of the things little boys do.
His mommy and Grandma Faith gave him a bath tonight. Mommy had to get all the ports wrapped in plastic so they didn't get wet. Of course, Brodie didn't like getting a bath. Most little boys don't......
They're getting ready to go back to the hospital on Monday to get his second round of chemo.
Please continue to pray for this precious little angel. He's taking all this "adult stuff" like a little trooper.
Thanks for all the cards he receives. It sure is nice to be remembered. Thanks for the generous donations you all have given. It would be especially hard to buy gasoline and phone cards if it wasn't for your thoughtfulness. They also charge to park at the hospital. Thanks a bunch.

Tuesday, September 14, 2004 11:55 AM CDT

Just a quick update.
Brodie woke up night before last and asked for a PLATE OF SPAGHETTI....How about that???? Isn't that great news???
Speaking of spaghetti....
The dinner is October the 3rd at Calvary 5th on 4th Street in Steubenville from 4-7.
You can buy tickets at the church or at Pet-Agree Grooming 748-DOGS (3647)
Rebecca Circle at Trinity Lutheran Church is donating all the spaghetti.
Downtown bakery is donating 20 loaves of bread.
Gus's Goodies is donating a sheet cake.
Kroger has given $20.00.
More people are waiting to get back to her with donations.
We're hoping for about 500 people.
Thanks to Monica for all her hard work. She's one busy girl!!!
That's about it for now.
Thanks for all your positive postings.

Sunday, September 12, 2004 2:38 PM CDT

Check out Brodie and Blair's pictures today.

Sunday, September 12, 2004 9:29 AM CDT

GOOD NEWS AT LAST!!!!
BRODIE'S COMING HOME!!!!!
He's eating (even though it's junk food).
His platelet count is 1560 (supposed to be 1500)
He possibly won't have to have his nupogen shot until after his next chemo session.
Keep praying!!!

Saturday, September 11, 2004 3:59 PM CDT

WE NEED YOUR HELP PLEASE????
Can you put in your church bulletin the details about the spaghetti dinner?

When: October 3rd, Sunday
What time: 4-7 p.m.
Where: Calvary 5th on 4th Street in Steubenville
What: Spaghetti dinner benefiting Brodie McUmar
How much: $5.00 (you decide if you want to pay for your child)
Please prebuy tickets. (so we know how much to cook) availble at Pet-Agree Grooming and Hilltop Book Store (we haven't asked them yet, so that is pending) Convenient on Marland Heights (also pending)

We need all your help and thanks for reading the updates.

Saturday, September 11, 2004 9:02 AM CDT

BRODIE SLEPT ALL NIGHT LAST NIGHT. That's something he hasn't done in months. His blood count is rising and that's a great sign.

Friday, September 10, 2004 9:08 PM CDT

Good Evening,
Nothing to report about Brodie's condition.
Just here to let you know about a fundraiser.
Monica Lahr is planning a spaghetti dinner at her dad's church, Calvary 5th on 4th Street in Steubenville, Ohio. It's located right across the street from Convenient Food Mart.
She's planning it for Friday, October 10th.
Anyone wishing to help her with this project or donate ingredients or baked goods please contact her at mountymel@mountain.net or me at lahrpenny@comcast.net.
We'll give more details as soon as we know more, like the time and price.

Friday, September 10, 2004 8:30 AM CDT

Daddy said Brodie was trying to eat yesterday. He still has a few sores on the roof of his mouth.
They did blood work and found NO infection!!!! That's a big plus.
Brodie is up and trying to talk. He doesn't grab his belly anymore!!!! which means the tumor has shrunk.

Thursday, September 9, 2004 8:05 PM CDT

Some of you have been asking if the family is taking donations. There has been an account opened at United Bank at 109 Three Springs Drive in Weirton, West Virginia 26062. It is in Dwight McUmar's name.
Any donation you might give, big or small, will certainly help the family.
Also, Scott has been looking for a job. He has a degree in accounting but is willing to work outside his degree. If any of you would know someone looking for a good employee, he is in desperate need of employment.
Amber started working in Weirton at Particulars Hair Salon, along with her Wheeling job, but Brodie won't let her leave his side. Please keep your ears open for any prospective jobs for Scott.
Thanks for all your prayers, and please don't stop.
He still needs them and has a rough road ahead.

Thursday, September 9, 2004 7:16 AM CDT

You've probably been waiting to hear more but there's not much of a change. Little Brodie is still in the Pittsburgh Children's Hospital. His coloring is better but he's still not eating or drinking which means a longer stay than anticipated. The sores in his mouth are still there but not as bad. Hopefully, they can get those cleared up so he feels like eating and drinking so he can come HOME.
I wish I had better news to report but I don't, just the facts. He's due for another bout of chemo on the 21st.

Monday, September 6, 2004 10:10 AM CDT

Brodie was admitted to the Children's hospital in Pittsburgh. They suspected he was dehydrated. He was having difficulty swallowing because of the sores in his mouth from the chemo. They said they will keep him for 48 hours. His nurse said he was getting along fine.

Sunday, September 5, 2004 10:04 PM CDT

Brodie, Mommy and Daddy went to Penny's house for about 1/2 hour. He was watching his cousins playing and didn't look too interested to join in. He was tossing the ball with Matt but got tired after a few throws.
Later on this evening he went to the hospital and had blood work to find he had a lousy infection, so he's now on his way back to Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh.
Look for an update tomorrow. Poor little fella.

Saturday, September 4, 2004 8:54 AM CDT

Brodie got to come home on Thursday. He seems to be getting along fine and Daddy says he's smiling a lot more than when he was in the hospital. He's happy to see his sissy, Blaire, and his dog, Cocoa (he's going to be a huge dog).
Amber is the at home doctor and she has a full time job. She's doing a Great Job and is to be commended for everything she does (including giving Brodie a shot every day to help increase his white blood count)
Everyone keep up the prayers!

Wednesday, September 1, 2004 2:25 PM CDT

Brodie is supposed to come home tomorrow. Everyone has been at their house frantically cleaning and painting so there are no germs to infect him. We even gave the dog a bath!! He'll be happy to see Cocoa and his little sister, Blaire.
We're hoping his appetite is better so he can come home.
Keep your fingers crossed!

Saturday, August 28, 2004 8:00 AM CDT

Brodie has 4th stage kidney cancer. It is in his bone marrow. It was not found in his lymph nodes. I don't have any more information at this time.

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