Day 3 Update

March 29, 2012

We are on day 3 of what they call the induction phase of John’s treatment protocol. This phase will last a total of six and a half weeks and will be performed in its entirety here at St Jude’s.

John has chemotherapy treatments and countless other treatments to protect his healthy organs.  The protection of John’s organs is critical to the recovery process and something they focus on a lot here at St Jude’s.

He is responding to the chemotherapy and his “numbers” are moving in the right direction.  That is great news!

The staff here at St Jude’s is world class. The doctors are the best, the nurses are the best, and the Starbucks baristas are the best. 

No child should have to bare such a burden.  We are in awe of John’s strength and inspired by his UNSTOPPABLE DETERMINATION!

Thank you for all of the email and posts!  Thank you for your love, support and prayers!  

From Kathy and Rich

Dear family & friends,

So much has happen in such a short period of time. 48 hours ago John was at the Pediatrician's office back in Charlotte and today he is here in Memphis at St Jude's. He is in the hands of some of the best doctor's in the world.

John has been diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). He has what they call TCell type. There is a sub-type that we will find out tomorrow. He received his first chemo treatments this evening.

So today is the first day on his road to recovery!

The treatment process will be 2 1/2 to 3 years. The first 6-7 weeks will be spent here at St. Jude's then John will travel back and forth for treatments and follow ups.

He is a fighter! He will beat this! He has unstoppable determination!

Thank you to the many people who have given us prayers, support and love. We are grateful to have such wonderful family and friends.

Please keep John in your prayers.

Check back often for updates and follow him on Twitter @GKjohnjhagen

More to come.

Love,

Kathy & Rich