A sad update

Below is a message from our Honored Teammate Jason's dad Coach Paul, Jason's was diagnosed with cancer about the same time as his friend Ulysses... HIS mom wrote a note below regarding is relapse! This Saturday will be a sad one as many of the mentors, coaches, and teammates know this little boy who isn't even 3 yrs old! I will run 20 miles in his honor this Saturday!

Hello Team:
For those of you on the Summer Team - our winter team had many updates spoken of Ulysses in our mission moments but wanted to include you in this email from Coach Paul and teammate Geraldine. If you ever doubt that what you are doing is really not that important - read this letter and know that you are each a glimmer of hope for families like Ulysses. Keep them in your prayers. ~ Judy

Those of you who were part of the winter team may remember me talking about a little boy named Ulysses Adams. Just this evening I receive some very sad news, which I want to share with all of you. Please read all of it, as these are words from the family:

your teammates,
Geraldine and Paul,

I am in tears as I compose this update. We received confirmation that Ulysses is in relapse last Friday. Forgive me for still not having the strength to tell you in person. The doctors and family agreed to put out the best effort to make him as comfortable as possible. We do not know how much time he has left.

This Wednesday, he will receive blood transfusion from his sister, Aspen, as his last treatment. Almost 3 years old, Ulysses has not been able to play in the playground with others. One of the wishes my sister has for him is for him to enjoy Disneyland. They are working with "Make A Wish" foundation and Disney directly in the hope to get him in the ride ahead of the long line.

Under the doctors' advice, the family plan to drive down Wednesday afternoon right after the blood transfusion. The reason is that Ulysses may be in the best condition the first few days after the transfusion. However, the doctors are also concerned the transfusion may cause GVHD. Ulysses oncologists will be on standby and would communicate his condition with an oncology professional in the local area should an emergency situation arises. Just in case, I am asking your help by allowing me the option to contact Jason's or Kevan's oncologists if Ulysses needs emergency attention.

I also plan to take time off on Thursday and Friday to be with Ulysses. We do not know how long they could stay with us; it all depends on his condition. If feasible, I'd take Ulysses to visit you in the office. Although I know our faith will sustain the family in the coming days; however, the thoughts of loosing this cute little boy just put me in tears every time. Once again, I appreciate your support and prayers.

Thanks,
Shelly

This week and Saturday, please carry Ulysses with you in your heart and your prayers. Also, if any of you have an "in" or work at Disneyland, maybe you can help make his trip to the magic kingdom more special. ~ Coach Paul


Please consider supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).

Although WE have made my donation minimum! Now I ask for you to help fellow teammates who are very dedicated to the training - there every week and working hard!!
SKylar Jarvis - http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tntorsSJarvis
Tatum Rodriguez - http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tatum
Cecile Tolentino - http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tntorsCTolentTo

Rembember WE are running a marathon on June 1st through Team in Training (TNT) Lymphoma and Leukemia Society (LLS)! WE are fundraising to find a cure for cancer and must raise a minimum of $2800 to run the race! If you would like to help me by prayers/donations/etc. It would be greatly appreciated! Whatever WE don't receive in donations... we must pay out of pocket... YIKES!