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Welcome to Jaclyn's Web Page. It has been provided to keep people updated about her care and for friends and famiy to keep in touch with the Murphy's during these times. Jaclyn was diagnosed with a medulloblastoma on March 26, 2004. Jaclyn underwent surgery, radiation and chemo. Her parents stopped the protocol in March 2005 because of the adverse effects of the chemotherapy. Due to treatments, in March 2006 Jaclyn was diagnosed with Celiac Disease, where her body cannot tolerate gluten. Please continue to pray and visualize Jaclyn's full healing. (Picture taken May 25, 2008 at Towson, MD--NU wins fourth straight year!)
Here is something that Jaclyn wrote for a foundation, Luca's Light, which raises money for pediatric brain tumor research:
My name is Jaclyn Murphy. I am currently 13 years old and was diagnosed with a life threatening brain tumor, Medulloblastoma, at the age of 9. My life changed in an instant. Having a brain tumor has taught me so much. It has taught me to stay positive no matter what happens in life, to accept what is going on, and to never lose faith. I have learned at a young age to live life to its fullest everyday. Sometimes, that is difficult because the way that I feel. I am not able to do the things that I was able to do in the past. For example, I still cannot play my favorite sports, lacrosse and soccer. I tire easily and have shortness of breath. I get frustrated when I cannot complete my school work as quickly as I used to. Socially, I have lost many of my friends. I spend a lot of time getting well while my friends and kids my age continue to be normal teenagers. At the same time, I know that I am blessed. I have learned the value of each and everyday. I have met amazing people along this journey who support me and inspire me to get well and be the best that I can be. I have learned the value of acceptance and believing that I have a special purpose. Research is so important so that we can STOP this living hell for all these children. No one should have to endure this dreaded disease. I pray and wish for a cure so that no more children will have to experience brain tumors, surgeries, radiation, and chemo. Everyone suffers when a child is diagnosed. The child, the parents, the sisters, and brothers. It has an affect on the entire family and everyone who is close to the child. There needs to be more awareness, research, and help for all the children. It is my hope that no other child will have to go through the disease of having a brain tumor.
Journal
Saturday, October 4, 2008 10:01 AM CDT Hello Everyone!
Fall is definitely in the air and the leaves have begun to change! It is beautful in the Mid-Hudson Valley, where we live--especially this time of year. The air is cool and the colors are so vibrant--it cannot help but make you feel the liveliness of the autumn season. We love this time of year and we are looking forward to our evenings around the fireplace (don't worry, it is now gas), hot chocolate with whipped cream, and back to playing our board games.
While Den and Jaclyn are in Chicago for the weekend to attend the annual alumni banquet, Taryn and I will be having a special mother/daughter weekend. After our sibs retreat last weekend, it was recommended that we make special dates with the sibs, who sometimes take a back seat to the sib who was diagnosed. It is a beautiful day and I believe Taryn wants to pick apples and get pumpkins! Then we will figure out whatever else feels right before going out to dinner. I was supposed to chaperone my school's football game, but yesterday I let them know that there was a conflict. We are looking forward to this day. Therefore, I will end my update and enjoy this gorgeous, Fall day with my sweetlove, Taryn!
Thank you for keeping our family in your daily thoughts and prayers. This journey is lifelong and prayers and positive thoughts are very much appreciated! Also, please continue to pray for Heather, Sammijean, Neal and all our bt kids!
We love you all and celebrate everyday,
The Murphys
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