PARFAM5
Stacey


My Family - Nov/97

I have a wonderful family. I met my husband, Gregg,
while I was in college. We married in July of 1986.
I had dreams of becoming a corporate lawyer, but
instead discovered the joy of children and became an
elementary teacher. I taught fourth grade for four
wonderful years, and then retired to stay home with our
precious little girl, Meghan. I love being a full time Mom!
When she was nearly a year old, I went back to teaching
part-time, but this time at a preschool so that I could be
close to her. Gregg and I both wanted a close family and
were anxious to have more children. After some
difficulties, we were finally blessed with the news that
we would have a son in Dec. of 1996. Meghan would
just be 4 and be a terrific big sister!!!


Jonathan, Me and Meghan - Oct/98

Jonathan was a perfect addition to our family - bright,
cheerful, and absolutely adored. At 8 months our world
was shattered. One day we found blood in his urine and
our lives were never the same. Quickly thereafter, his
right kidney was removed with what was thought to be
a Wilm's tumor. We were informed that it was instead a
rare tumor, which has never been survived if it was then
found in the brain. Our nightmare was realized when it
was found that he did indeed have one near his brain
stem. It was 99% removed surgically, and then he
underwent 4 months of IV chemo. The tumor regrew
quickly and no other options have been available that
we were willing to allow him to be subjected to.
In February of '98 we were given about 3 weeks
to enjoy him.


Who can resist this smile?? - Sept/98

We have been blessed to continue to see his contagious
smile, hear his warm laughter, and give and receive the
most precious of hugs and kisses. I spend my days
treasuring the simple things and rejoicing in my family.
Gregg has been strong and wonderful throughout all of
this. Meghan is not yet 6 and has been promoted to the
first grade. Our friends, family, church and neighbors
have become an incredible support system. Cancer is a
horrible monster, but you learn to value life and love on
a daily basis. May God Bless you all!

Note from the webmaster: Sadly little Jonathan became an Angel on December 16th of 1998, he may be gone - but he will never be forgotten!!