NOTE FROM THE MACS STAFF

Chase's story was written before he passed away. We will update his story as soon as we receive more information from his family.

Chase was born healthy and HUNGRY. He breastfed as soon as possible. In fact, the only time he cried was when he was hungry. He was bright as the sunshine. He brought so much joy to our lives and still does everyday.

Chase has been healthy except for allergies and the usual colds, etc. However, I noticed a couple of years ago that he needed more rest than other kids his own age and that he could not tolerate being in the heat very long. I also noticed that he wasn't as energetic as before.

I approached his pediatrician about my concerns but he did not see any need to worry. I still wondered what could be wrong. I just knew something wasn't right.

In the summer of 2001, he complained of double vision. His eye doctor told me that he simply needed reading glasses. Well, an MRI proved that to be wrong. He had a malignant brain tumor called an Anaplastic Astrocytoma. He had surgery in September, a few days after diagnosis was made.

Then he had radiation and 15 months of grueling chemotherapy. He needed NG tube feedings for a little over a year. He lost several year's worth of muscle mass. He is slowly but surely recovering from it all. His blood counts are normal. He has fatigue issues but that's getting better as well. I am so very proud of him. Your support has made a big difference! Please keep him in your prayers! MRI's are done every 3-4 months. Thank you all for your CONTINUED prayers and support.

(..... to be continued .....)