I Don't ♥ Cancer

There was a follow up article posted in today’s Northwest Herald online. Check it out in the “Blogroll” links.

Check the “Blogroll” links on the right side of the page. There is a link to an article that appeared in the Northwest Herald covering the Headshaving/Lift-A-Thon event in Zak’s honor.

What do MCHS Warrior Football players do on a day off from school? Support their teammates! Ruth Ann Lewyckyj was kind enough to organize a Lift-A-Thon & Head Shaving event in Zak’s honor. Those who participated collected donations from friends, family and the community. The event was covered by the Northwest Herald.

Unfortunately, Zak was unable to attend. He was not feeling well today. Against his wishes, I insisted he stay home and get some well-needed rest. He felt terrible for not being able to attend, and is extremely grateful for all your support!!!!

At this time, we would like to say thank you to Ruth Ann, the Warrior coaching staff, all who volunteered, and all the boys who participated. Whether you received contributions, shaved your head, or just stopped by to show your support it will never be forgotten.

What an amazing group of people!!!

Got Hair?

This is only a FEW of who showed their support!

Even the MCHS Warrior coaches got in on the action!

Zak's number as they are all holding up ... 22

A lift-a-thon also took place in addition to the headshaving!

Waiting in line for a HAIRCUT!

Have you ever seen boys waiting in line for a HAIRCUT??!!

The Northwest Herald was on hand to document the event.

Say HI Ruth Ann!

Mmmmmmm! Energy for the lift-a-thon!

We would just like to let everyone know that Zak’s scans are scheduled for Wednesday, October 28th. We will get our results Thursday, the 29th at 10:00 AM.

Even though Zak had a very rough night Wednesday, he was still able to attend school on Thursday and Friday. He continues to feel pretty good, and will be attending Homecoming tonight. We are so excited!!!!

As our day comes to an end, this completes the 1st day of the 3rd cycle. Once again, we will wait to see if any side effects occur.  Let’s hope not, especially since it is Homecoming weekend.  I will keep you updated.

Thank you and have a great day

I probably should have updated yesterday to let you all know that Zak was feeling MUCH better!  He went to school and attended both the Sophomore and Varsity football games at Grayslake North last night. Wednesday and Thursday were just a minor bump in the road . . .

We knew it was just a matter of time until some of the side effects kicked in.  Boy did they kick in last night.  Zak became very ill shortly after we got home from treatment.  He will not be attending school today – which is a first for him (besides the days he has treatment).  His body is definitely in need of rest and hydration.

So today was Zak’s 2nd treatment. I am happy to report that his bloodcounts remain EXCELLENT! That is half the battle right there!!!

Although this was a much shorter visit, he did still receive chemotherapy through his port. Side effects this time could include numbness and tingling in his fingers, toes, and throughout his entire body. The biggest side effect – hair loss. We shaved Zak’s head Tuesday night as a precaution. Who knows – he beat the side effects last time – maybe he’ll beat them again this time too.   With or without hair, he will still look as handsome as ever.

2 weeks down . . . 7 weeks to go . . .

What a great surprise for Zak to come home to after his first day of treatment! This is a real testament to the support of friends, neighbors, school and teamates!

THANK YOU!