Mason Arik

Thursday, July 15, 2010

"Happiness is like a butterfly: the more you chase it, the more it will elude you. But if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder." Thoreau

Love smiled on me today. Nothing like a phone call and visits from friends. And the yummy lunch and dinner from friends the day before. And Celeste, Zack, and Christine thanks for the mailbox smiles. It those little things that add up to so much. We thank everyone and are so fortunate for you. Love to all. The above photo is from Maverick, finding beauty and enjoying nature. And yes, I am crazy over quotes. Hope it brings a smile to your day.

" All of us are born for a reason, but all of us don't discover why. Success in life has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself. It's what you do for others.
- Danny Thomas, founder of St. Jude Children 's Research Hospital

2 comments:

Melinda said...: We look forward to your posts everyday! I truly love the quotes you bring - and the pictures are awesome! You are such an inspiration!!!!!

Melinda; July 15, 2010 at 9:52 PM
Anonymous said...: Like Melinda, I check the site each day to keep up with Mason's progress, to shed a few tears when you are frustrated and smile with each little success. Your family and friends are indeed an inspiration! I admire your courage and willingness to take the time to post your experiences, photos and inspirational quotes! Give my love to Grandma Kay. I miss her! Marjorie; July 16, 2010 at 7:45 AM

Seasons of Wishes

About Mason Arik

To continue Mason's dream and his memory, we dedicate this blog to him. He has been diagnosed with Diffuse Pontine Glioma (Brain Tumor) (04/22/10). He courageously battled his cancer for 11 1/2 months. On March 29th, 2011, it was snowing in Heaven. He is and will be missed forever. We will continue to write and share the strength and courage that Mason has taught us as well as the many other lives he has touched, near and far. Links are listed below to provide additional information regarding DIPG.

Discovery of Tumor-Dx April 22, 2010

Beginning in March of 2010, Mason complained of severe headaches, mostly at night. Then the headaches went from 2-3 times a month (over a 2 month period) to every night and more severe, by the 3rd night I contacted his pediatrician. I was told to give him Excedrin Migraine.

But by the next day we were walking to school and he had double vision- Thanks to the school nurse, we scheduled an appointment that day with Sabates eye care. After his eye was dilated they noticed his eyes were shifting. An immediate MRI was scheduled.

After the most agonizing MRI, we went home awaiting the results. That's when we were told it was a tumor (pontine glioma) We waited to visit the doctor before researching the internet. So imagine the shock to hear this is the worst locations to find a tumor, inside the brain stem. (inoperable and unfortunately very serious)