"Why Not Aidan?"2008-09-08T08:02:35Zhttp://updates.whynotaidan.com/atom.aspxQuick BlogLotsa Helping Hands - September 7, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-09-07:1ac1f573-7929-417f-ae26-e30c958ee296Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-09-07T13:10:56Z2008-09-07T12:36:00Z
Aidan’s recent troubles and his PRES diagnosis have significantly complicated the situation for Tanya and Mike and now the vast majority of their time must be fully dedicated to the care of Aidan and his little brother Tallon.  The situation has not only further complicated their personal lives, but it will certainly delay the time before Mike will be able to return to work.

A lot of you have recognized the need for additional support and have asked how you can help directly.  In the past we simply asked that you support fundraisers when possible and we asked that you continue your prayers for Aidan’s eventual healing.  We really did not have a handle on what else could be done and there was no convenient way to organize additional hands on efforts.  Well thanks to Aidan’s Nanni and the Lotsa Helping Hands community, we have not only identified what needs to be done, but we have an easy way for you to see what is needed and a convenient way to schedule your time to help.


To access the Lots Helping Hands community and to see exactly where you can assist, simply email us at HelpAidan@WhyNotAidan.com or email Aidan’s Nanni directly at Cath_Hammack@Charter.net.  After your email is received you will be setup to access the schedule and you can then chose the activity and times that you want to help.

In addition to your continued prayers, please lend us your time and have a direct and hands on contribution to Aidan’s eventual healing.

Thank You from the bottom of our hearts for everything you continue to do to help Aidan and his family,

Aidan's Family
  
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Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?
]]>Slowly Improving - September 5, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-09-05:33ff1f4e-0343-43bc-b24f-0ca98301812dMike and Tanya Zaugg2008-09-05T18:45:33Z2008-09-05T18:35:00Z
Aidan has improved to the point where today he had his very first outing since his latest problems began.  He is very much looking forward to the fishing trip that was interrupted with his trip to the hospital, so today we took him shopping for his new fishing pole and reel.  After 3 different stores Aidan was unable to locate that perfect rod & reel that meets his very demanding specifications.  The shopping experience was highly anticipated, but it did tire him a little, and after the third store it also became a bit frustrating.  Realizing the mission must be completed or the fishing trip will have to be put on further hold, Aidan has agreed to give it another go sometime tomorrow morning.

Aidan continues to battle the affects of the recent Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) diagnosis. The seizures have stopped entirely, but he continues to have moments of confusion, fatigue brought upon by the stout medication, and he continues to have interment fairly severe pain due to the internal issues related to his bowels.  With the knowledge that all these remaining symptoms are likely to be fully reversible, Tanya & Mike continue to treat him and attempt to make him as comfortable as possible.  These efforts have become quite the fulltime job and at times Tanya and Mike really do struggle.  The many medications he is now taking all have their own side effects, and Tanya and Mike have learned to become fairly impressive jugglers as they attempt to take him off some of the medications while slowly increasing others.  The good news is these efforts do seem to be working and everyday now Aidan seems to be making some improvement.

Some further good news, none of Aidan’s current struggles appear directly related to the tumor.  They are almost certainly attributable to the PRES and the PRES was brought about by high blood pressures which started because of the steroids.  Since the steroids are the root cause of the current problems the obvious goal was to remove the steroids as quickly as could be done safely.  The fear in this approach is the steroids are prescribed to keep the tumor symptoms in check, and to reduce them or eliminate them brings on great fear that the tumor symptoms will worsen.  Well, even though Aidan was taking 4ml a day when he returned from Scottsdale, and 2ml when he was flown to Seattle, these dosages have been significantly whittled down to only 1/2ml per day and the symptoms have NOT worsened to any degree that would cause us any concern.  This has provided further proof that the tumor is currently in check and that the progression of late June early July is not contributing to any of the current problems.

We continue to believe that time, support, and prayers will eventually bring about Aidan’s miracle and we continue to ask that you chose to believe with us.  Please keep up your prayers for Aidan and continue to thank our God for the miracles he has already received.

Aidan's Family
  
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Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?
]]>A Catch 22 - August 28, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-08-28:d522026e-8071-4d9a-86da-13955db8819dMike and Tanya Zaugg2008-08-28T20:46:23Z2008-08-28T20:32:00Z Aidan continues to improve and has not had another seizure episode since yesterday morning.  The small seizures that he has had are significantly less than what transpired last Saturday, and he is now even able to speak throughout them, but cannot control the movement of his eyes or extremities.  His progress is such that the Doctors at Seattle Childrens are considering releasing him from the hospital tomorrow afternoon or Saturday morning.  Although very serious, Thank God this ended up being something much less then what it first presented itself to be last Saturday.

The exact diagnosis for these seizures is known as Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome or PRES.  This syndrome is a rare side effect of the steroids Aidan has been taking since late June.  In simplistic terms, the steroids cause  
Aidan Working Over Daddy from His Hospital Bed hypertension which in turn causes the seizures.  The very good news is the seizures are not directly attributable to Aidan’s tumor progression.  The symptoms are totally reversible once the steroids are significantly reduced and the hypertension is brought back to normal.

The good news does not come without some serious trepidation and Catch 22 that still must be overcome.  The MRI taken in Seattle did possibly discover a small amount of bleeding within the tumor, but it also indicated the tumor is of the same size or smaller, and the area of enhancement signifying tumor progression was now no longer there.  The Catch 22 is the Doctors are worried about the bleed and are now leaning heavily to taking away the chemotherapy that seems to have brought the tumor under control.

Needless to say there was a lot of discussion concerning the plan to remove the chemotherapy and the family generally believes this would not be a good idea.  It would be very difficult to rehash all the debating points that were discussed amongst the Doctors and family, but the bottom line is there is not definitive evidence that the area noted within the MRI is blood, there is no indisputable evidence that the chemotherapy caused it, and there is some anecdotal evidence that the chemotherapy is doing exactly what it was designed to do.  After a couple of meetings with the Doctors, it was agreed that we would continue to reduce the steroids to get control of the hypertension and to eliminate the seizures.  After approximately 3 weeks another MRI will be taken and if the apparent blood is no longer present, we will again discuss the continuation of the chemotherapy.

While the possibility of no longer having the chemotherapy available is very disturbing, we will take the good news of Aidan’s improvement and pray to our God that the next MRI is definitive and will no longer show anything that resembles blood, and that our God will guide the Doctors into making the very best decision that will most benefit Aidan and help to ensure that he will be with us for a good long time to come.

Thank you for your prayers and support during this very scary episode.  Please keep up those prayers so that Aidan will continue to improve and the next MRI will be very convincing and lead to the very best decision for the benefit of Aidan.

Aidan's Family   
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Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?]]>Aidan's Medical Emergency Update - August 25, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-08-25:66106c76-fc46-48fd-81fe-4b3e4f79d924Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-09-07T12:47:06Z2008-08-25T21:12:00ZThose of you that do not know Aidan was air ambulanced to Seattle Saturday evening.  He was having a bad day with not feeling well and he was not eating or drinking as he should have been.  Mike had been with him all day and Aidan was not able to use the bathroom but was needing to.  About 3:00 pm Aidan flipped over on to his stomach and Mike could not get him to respond, he was not breathing well, if at all.  Tanya called 911 and an ambulance arrived within minutes to rush him to our local hospital.  In the ambulance he had a twitching type of seizure.  At the hospital it was decided to fly him to Seattle Children's Hospital.  About 30 family members and friends said a prayer in the ER room before they all headed home to pack for the journey to Seattle or do their part in keeping the prayers going.  Deb and Sid stayed with Mike and Aidan until they got into the ambulance to the airport.  Aidan and Mike arrived about 9:30 pm at Childrens Hospital and Aidan was now responsive to his daddy's voice and his vitals were normal.

The 6 car convoy of family arrived about 12:30 am and walked in to the emergency room all needing Aidan Zaugg family badges, the ER was overwhelmed by the presence of so-o-o-o many family members there; we laughed and said when one of us is in need we all respond as we can...  We found out that Aidan had 2 seizures and that he would be admitted to the hospital.  Seizures are not caused by this type of tumor and they need to find out what is causing the symptoms.  After we were reassured Aidan was okay we left Mike, Tanya, and Tallon there to care for Aidan and we all retired to our motel rooms.

Aidan continued to have several more seizures and a MRI was scheduled for possibly Sunday, if they could, but if not, Monday.  Sunday, a CAT scan was done and still it was not clear enough to see what was going on, but they said they could not really see any bleed, which was the fear.

Four of the car convoy headed home with great distress on Sunday.  They, like us, wanted to have some kind of answers.  Aidan continued to look better but continued to have seizures.  The Doctor's scheduled his MRI for Monday morning.  Monday came and Aidan did have his MRI and the doctors met with Tanya, Mike & Chet to discuss the results...

Aidan had experienced a small bleed in his tumor; he also had some abnormality in the cortex area of his brain, which looked like different spots of discoloration.  They believe those spots are the cause of the seizures.  After great discussion they are attributing the abnormality to high blood pressure caused by the steroids.  They need to get the steroid levels reduced and the damage, in almost every case, is reversible in about 2-4 weeks.

Aidan has bouts of times where he is so funny and others times of pure frustration.  He wants to go home, and tells us frequently that is his desire.  Aidan was seeing objects colored differently today (daddy was blue and momma was yellow), and that fits in with the seizure symptoms; he had a bath and is getting lots of sleep.

A family struck with this same monster, the Mara Adam's family, stopped by to see Mike and Tanya today: it was so moving to see the two Moms’ just hold each other and shed a tear for each other's families.  I had a hard time not falling apart.  Mara is such a pretty girl who is fighting with all her might, she was on her way for an infusion and the family had a few minutes to stop by - we are so glad they did, Mike and Tanya need to sometimes, just have another family around to talk with, that has similar experiences.

One of my cousins had already told me that Brian, Mara's dad went to high school with his brother, who died a few years ago with Deshane's Muscular Dystrophy.  Brian grew up in my family's home town.  Sometimes when we think this world is so big we get knocked down and then have to realize it is really such a small world.  That is why if we can all just get together and fight this monster together we might, just might, have a chance of kicking its as_.

Huge Thank-You -- Mike's family has been by the hospital everyday and has been a great help to them.  Chet's sister and brother-in-law, and Mike's brother-in-law, were at the hospital waiting for them to give them any support they needed when the ambulance arrived from Sea-Tac with Aidan and Mike on Saturday.  Thank-you family and friends for all of your prayers, and your constant support.  I also want to thank everyone for helping with the recent fund raisers.  I will delve into the details later of those events when I get home.  It is getting late and I need some sleep, Chet, Sage and I should be heading home tomorrow unless something drastic happens.

Please keep the prayers up, and God Bless everyone and their families, especially the staff and doctors at Children's Hospital.

Oh, I forgot to mention, I found a site that helps organize helpers, and I plan on initiating that site when I get home and emailing the site's address and more details out.

Please continue your prayers for Aidan's wellbeing,

Aidan's Nanni
Cath

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Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?

]]>Happy 7th Birthday Aidan! - August 18,2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-08-18:d83bcd39-1020-4f04-aff1-cf6d98402a1fMike and Tanya Zaugg2008-08-19T18:43:53Z2008-08-18T20:05:00Z Just a quick note to let you know things are going well and to let you know why we have been away for the last week or so.  Our absence is because we have been so very busy making preparations for Aidan’s 7th Birthday and making arrangements for some other special plans we are working on.  The preparations were well worth the effort and Aidan actually started celebrating his Birthday a couple of days before it arrived.  I will be quick to describe some of the activities and I will promise to follow this up with some more detail and quite a few photos.

On Saturday Aidan had the opportunity to be a part of this year’s Ben-Franklin County Fair & Rodeo Parade.  He rode the route in Nanni’s open top Volkswagen Beatle and he
Aidan & Daddy Readying for the Parade enjoyed every moment of the attention and yells of encouragement from the spectator’s lining the route. Aidan was accompanied by a group of supporters and family who were all wearing their Aidan’s Guardian Angel T-shirts.  The entourage of supporters were handing out candy and wristbands until the supplies ran out about half way through the route.  It really was quite the experience and something Aidan will remember for quite some time to come.

On Sunday we called family, friends, and supporters together so that we could share a brunch potluck and start celebrating Aidan’s birthday one day early.  It was a huge success with fun, good food, and good company for everyone.  Aidan’s Papa Zaugg made a surprise visit from Everett which made the day even more special than it already was.  Aidan received a lot of awesome gifts, but none made him happier then receiving his very own cell phone.  He couldn’t wait to use it and was calling friends and family who were only a room or two away.  I would share his telephone number with you, but we are already concerned the 120 minutes the phone came with won’t even be remotely close to what he will eventually need.  Maybe when the newness wears off just a bit we will share his number so some of you can give him a call. 

Aidan Enjoying His Party		 Well after two days of “pre” celebration the very special day has finally arrived.  Aidan spent the day with more friends and family and then capped the day off with a meal he has been dreaming about for at least the last month or so.  Every time the Red Lobster commercial would come on TV Aidan was quick to say he wanted to go there and try some lobster with crab legs.  Well it didn’t take him too long to finalize his decision when the waitress asked what he wanted.  He ended up with a dish that included lobster, crab legs, scallops, and shrimp.  From the very first bite you could tell Aidan really was enjoying it, and even though it took him some time, he ended up finishing up almost everything set on the plate in front of him.

You are one very special little boy Aidan Zaugg and we hope and pray the last few days have brought you the enjoyment and love that you so very much deserve.  With God’s blessing, we intend to celebrate many more birthdays with you in the years to come.

                   Happy Birthday to Our Very Special 7 Year-old!


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Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?
]]>Special Angels - August 6, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-08-06:f2c28942-4044-4132-88f4-1c7d92d00a57Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-08-19T06:07:01Z2008-08-06T20:00:00Z The news of Aidan’s quest for a miracle has spread, and with it so have the numbers of his friends and supporters.  Where there is a need, there is another Angel stepping forward to take care of it.  Dane Idler and his father Darrell are just the latest example of the tremendous generosity and compassion that has been displayed on Aidan’s behalf.

 At the request of their friends Lauree & Bob Cannon, Dane & Darrell agreed to take on the job of completing the installation of the carpeting that was donated by Ron Thornhill owner of Benjamin’s Carpet One in Richland.  What remained was probably the most difficult, with the hallway and stairs that were yet to be done.  Their volunteering of their time to complete this effort would have been generous on its own, but they wished to do even more.

Being friends of the Detroit Tigers pitcher Jeremy Bonderman, Dane & Darrel made a special request and asked Jeremy to stop by to visit Aidan.  This was possible because Jeremy is currently home recuperating from an injury and is out for the rest of the 2008 MLB season.  On Wednesday the plan came together, and Jeremy arrived knocking at Aidan’s door.  
Aidan was all smiles and hamming it up with Jeremy during this surprise visit.  Jeremy presented Aidan with a signed photograph with the same picture used on his baseball card, autographed Sage’s Jeremy Bonderman rookie card, and donated one of his Detroit Tigers team caps.  If you know Aidan you know that he requires a cap a little larger than most, but it will be some time before he will fit into Jeremy’s 7 3/8” sized cap.  When Aidan’s all grown up, it should fit him perfectly!

The count just keeps growing… we continue to be amazed by the generosity of friends, family, and total strangers (soon to be friends).   Dane, Darrel, and Jeremy are just the latest in a continuing string of folks that are taking the time to make a little boy smile and to help him emotionally, physically, and monetarily.  It surely will be Angels like these that will make Aidan’s miracle possible.

Bless all of you today and every day,

Aidan's Nanni
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Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?]]>Aidan's Angels Are Born Every Day! - August 6, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-08-06:d4215763-5c38-417d-b07c-364841370c9eMike and Tanya Zaugg2008-08-19T06:07:40Z2008-08-06T10:40:00ZI just received a call from Mike and the blessings keep on coming... Aidan was scheduled for his loaner wheel chair fitting this morning, and Aidan & Mike met a very nice man named Rocky who did the fitting. Mike and Rocky were discussing Aidan's journey and the importance of faith and a positive attitutde.  As they finished their conversation Mike handed Rocky one of Aidan's new wristbands. Rocky left and no more than 30 minutes afterwards, Mike received a call from him.  He had spoken with his distributor and they were going to build a personal special red wheelchair for Aidan.  What a grand offering!   Then he said "I have a friend that was a magician and he wants to teach Aidan and Sage some magic tricks".  This friend supplies magic props to magicians all over the world and he wants to share with Aidan and bring a smile to his face.  What a precious gift to give.  Another Aidan's Angel is born!

Then Mike tells me the CEO of the distributer we have been purchasing Aidan’s Poly-MVA from had emailed them personally and wants to help out with the cost of the product. The 8 oz. bottle only lasts 6 days and normally costs anywhere between $170 to $250 a bottle depending on the volume you purchase. This wonderful man is offering the 8 oz. bottle to Aidan at a significantly reduced cost without the need for volume purchasing.  And yet another Aidan's Angel is born!

Blessings are all around us and real Miracles Happen Everyday!

Bless you all for what you do for Aidan,

Aidan's Nanni

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Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?
]]>Chemo Infusion Successful - August 5, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-08-05:97b7fd9b-33f5-401e-8064-3abdef8d4db0Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-08-19T17:03:05Z2008-08-05T21:37:00Z

The original plan was for Aidan to receive his next round of chemo the Monday before he left Scottsdale.  Because of a blood platelet count in the 70’s, Phoenix Children’s sent him home without the treatments and advised his count would have to increase to near 100 before he would be allowed the next round.  This news was bothersome because you want to stay as close to two week intervals as possible because too much time between treatments has shown in some cases to make the drugs ineffective.  When he returned home he went to Kadlec Hospital and his count was found to be even lower and the chemo was delayed once again.  The worries mounted as Aidan approached 3 weeks between treatments.

After discussions with Children’s Hospital in Seattle, it was decided if Aidan could reach a count in the 80’s they would proceed instead of allowing more time to go by.  On Friday last week, exactly three weeks since his prior chemotherapy, Aidan once again went to Kadlec for another blood draw.  We would have been very happy with anything over 80, and Aidan surprised us all with a count of 103!  Immediately after hearing the news Aidan was rushed off to Seattle with his Dad and Nanni.  After arriving in the middle afternoon, Aidan spent approximately 5 hours at Children’s and did not get completed until approximately 7:30 in the evening.  While it was a very eventful and stressful week, Aidan was once again blessed and everything ended up perfectly fine.

After returning home late Friday evening, we made plans to relax a bit and enjoy each other’s company.  On Saturday we were invited by the Autism Society to attend a double feature movie which Aidan was so looking forward to.  The theater was playing Wall-E and Space Chimps.  Aidan has been yearning to see Space Chimp and then to get to see Wall-E again; what a treat.  But things did not work out as planned; the plan was for Mike and Aidan to go see the movies then go to the library; Aidan suddenly wants a library card to check out books.  The carpet layers (Dane and his dad) arrived to lay carpet and there was not enough carpet based on a small goof-up on Mike’s part (dog house time).  So, he felt obligated to try and find a remedy with the help of Sid and Debbie...They were not successful; at least not Saturday.  Next thing we know a family from the Ronald McDonald House that has become near and dear to the kids, called and said they were in town.  So the rest of the day and evening was enjoyed with a visit by the Alvarez family (Carlos, Patty, and Jasmine).

Sunday was a quiet day with a BBQ at Papa and Nanni’s house.  Aidan has been a hoot lately; he has such a sense of humor and says the funniest things.  The other day a few people were around visiting and talking, suddenly the steroids took over and he was hungry so he started to get up to walk to the kitchen; we all said at once "where you are going!", he proceeds to say, “I am hungry!” followed by, “and I have a huge appetite!", he then begins to eat the air.  We all laughed with him, it is so good to see him smile and laugh again.  Our hearts become a little lighter during those moments of joy, we almost forget for just a slight second what hell Aidan is going through.

On Monday Aidan finally got his library card and checked out books on trains, his new subject of focus.  Then on Tuesday, Benjamin’s carpet saved Mike from being in the dog house any longer for they had the additional yardage needed to get the stairs carpeted.  Then off to the movies went Aidan and Mike on Tuesday to see Space Chimps.  This week is looking up and the Lord is sending many blessings.

Thank You for your continued Prayers for Aidan,

Aidan's Nanni


NOTE: We are still seeking volunteers to help with the following fundraisers

Car Wash - RESCHEDULED!!! Sunday at Gage and Leslie (Albertson's) from 10 to 3
Need hoses, rags, towels, soap, sponges, and BODIES
POC for the car wash is Lindy Barrett (528-0033)

Yard Sale - Fri & Sat on the 22nd and 23rd of August
Need yard sale items and BODIES. Please mark your items with the price and drop off the items no later than Thurs (Aug 21) at 8001 W. Deschutes Ave, Kenn.
POC for the yard sale are Patti Barrett (528-0033) or Cath Hammack (942-4968)

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Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?
]]>Fundraising Efforts - August 5, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-08-05:e400f1d2-de8f-4ac0-a292-e5a46aebd694Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-08-19T17:03:35Z2008-08-05T10:05:00Z


Aidan in Disneyland

 Where Are We With The Need For Fundraisers???

Between Family and Aidan’s Angels we have been successful in raising a few dollars to help Tanya and Mike out with their trips to Seattle, Aidan’s medications & supplements, and general household expenses.  Recently, Tanya and Mike decided not to pursue the Poly-MVA treatments in Scottsdale, Arizona which would have cost $7,800.00 a week on top of everything else.  This decision does not mean that Aidan and his family are now a-okay and no longer require our help.  Other then the fundraising efforts, they have no regular income, but there remains significant expenses which need to be addressed.  Aidan still is taking the very expensive Poly-MVA treatments orally at home, and each bi-weekly trip to Seattle is mandatory in the budget so Aidan can receive his chemo infusions.  Additionally each blood draw at the Kadlec emergency room will not be covered because of the “emergency room” code billed to the insurance company.  So, those of you that have asked the question, “do the kids still need financial help?” the answer is a resounding YES!


Successful Fundraisers This Past Week

  • "Tators for Tators" Baked Potato Feed at Fluor Hanford 200 East Area raised $800.00.
  • The Pub’s “80’s for Aidan” theme raised about $600.00 in cover charges on Wednesday.
  • Email Letter Campaign – Did you send yours out to 5 people this week?  Thanks Lauree.

    Upcoming Fundraisers or Awareness Events

    RESCHEDULED!!! August 10th, Sunday, Car Wash at Gage and Leslie (Albertson's) in South Richland from 10 to 3. Need hoses, rags, towels, soap, sponges, and BODIES to raise money for Aidan and his family. POC for the car wash is Lindy Barrett (528-0033).

    • August 16th, Saturday, Benton Franklin Fair Grand Parade in Kennewick.
    Submitted paperwork to walk and drive in the parade.  Need candy to hand out and volunteers to walk with the car Aidan will be riding in.

    August 22nd and 23rd, Friday & Saturday, Yard Sale at 8001 W. Deschutes Ave in Kennewick.
    Need yard sale items and BODIES. Please mark your items with the price and drop off the items no later than Thurs (Aug 21) POC for the yard sale are Patti Barrett (528-0033) or Cath Hammack (942-4968).

    August 23rd, Saturday, Uncle Sam’s Saloon & Brown Royalties, Inc. is pleased to present “Rockin & Rappin” with three local bands. A cover charge of $5.00 will be donated to Aidan.  The party gets started at 10:00 pm with 3rd World Crew and Jefe De Jefes (rap), Simple Minded (rock), and Shaun Fellows (rock).  Come out and have some fun at 8378 W Gage Blvd Kennewick, WA.

    August 29th, 30th & 31st and September 6th & 7th Richland Walmart
    Wal-Mart in Richland has given us two weekends to sell items in front of the stores.  If you have a good idea let us know.  We are looking at possibly selling Aidan wristbands, bottled water, and a bake sale.  POC’s are Yvette Moore (734-4692) and Kris McColgin (521-7398).

    September 19th, Friday, Pasco’s Sun Willows Golf Scramble 1:00pm.
    POC is Jeanette Smith (Jeanette.Smith@Parsons.com) Need volunteer to help, sign up to play, sponsor a hole or just donate a silent action item.

    October 12th, Sunday, Tagaris Winery Tasting and Tour
    An event hosted by local Chefs that will prepare special hors d'oeuvres to match the wine featured in the tasting. A silent auction with items like a dinner prepared at your home by one of the chefs, a white water rafting trip, etc.  POC’s are Jason LaBarge and Sara Maland (308-6510) (www.tagariswines.com).

    Aidan will have 2 Ben Franklin Buses with his face on them beginning BF County Fair Week.  Two booths have agreed to give us space at the BF County Fair to pass out armbands and sell bottled water with Aidan’s face on it.

    Aidan’s Donation Cans are ready to be distributed to businesses.  Aidan’s Donation cans are available for pick-up at 8001 W. Deschutes, Kennewick.  Please let us know where you have the can’s are placed and leave the rest to the volunteers to do weekly pick-ups.

    We are still hoping to get the “Dinner With A Celebrity” off and running.  POCs are Darcey Graichen and Deanna Hatori.  The Cathedral of the Desert has donated their facilities.

    KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK EVERYONE - AIDAN'S ANGELS ARE AWESOME!


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    Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?
    ]]>    Thank You To Our Community - July 29, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-07-29:82f018e1-2232-4b1d-b165-d1408e9b6c27Cath Nanni Hammack2008-08-19T17:04:56Z2008-07-29T21:56:00ZJust a quick update on what is happening in the Zaugg circle.  Last Thursday night I received a call from Robin at KEPR News.  She wanted to offer her help after reading an email that went out about Aidan and the family coming home.  She stated that Aidan was near and dear to the studio employee’s hearts and they wanted to see if they could get people and businesses motivated to help the Zaugg Family.  The next day Chelsea & Holly called letting me know that KEPR was calling business to help out.  They had contacted several business and many had agreed to donate to Aidan and his family.  They also ran a news story about the cleaning of the Zaugg house to get it ready for them.  Before I knew it people were calling offering their services; what a blessing for KEPR to reach out and touch us like that.  I would like to take the time to list the people that reached out and helped and also their company names.

    Please if you need this kind of service reach out to the businesses and let them receive ten fold for their giving gestures.

    • KEPR NEWS – 547-0547
      • Robin Wojtanik - News Director
      • Holly Zuluaga - News Staff
      • Mike Crispino - News Staff
      • Rudabeh Shahbazi - News Staff
      • Chelsea Kopta - News Staff
    • Frank Nero - Entrees Made Easy (2 Meals)
    • Yokes Grocer (Gift card)
    • Wal-Mart Store (Gift Card)
    • Albertson’s Grocer (Gift Card)
    • Jose Aguilera - Terra Valley Landscaping (Lawn, Trench & Yard work)    783-6125
    • Raquel Aguilera - Wall Murals (Babies Room Mural)    727-5523
    • Paul - Stanley Steamers (Carpet Cleaning)    737-1500               
    • Mike & Kristy Frazer - Stanley Steamers (Carpet Cleaning)    737-1500
    • Ron Thornhill - Benjamin’s Carpet (material for 2 rooms of carpet & 1 room laminate)    946-4506
    • Maddy - Benjamin’s Carpet    946-4506
    • Evan - Alan Electrical (labor for electrical connection for Hot Tub)    582-6770
    • Lowes (Electrical Supplies)
    • Thomas Clemmens – Triple Clean Power Wash (Cleaned Drive Way and House)    840-1624
    • Miscellaneous gift givers dropped off canned goods and a bag of clothes

    The following people donated their time (up to 6 hours) to help get the house ready for their return (cleaning, scrubbing, washing, and painting).

    Casey Johnson               Ashley Wood
    Jasmine Hutchinson         Rebecca Hamson
    Tasha Dow                    Kelsie Miller
    Darcie Graichen              Amy Durham
    Griffin Durham                Kris McColgin
    Joanne Wallace              Vicki Claybrook
    Cindy Griswold                Jennifer Fisher......Sorry we missed your name at first!
    Then we need to thank neighbors Green and Linda Togiai for keeping the Zaugg’s lawn mowed since Aidan was diagnose, except for one week in which another dear neighbor Marci Smith mowed the lawn.

    Where would we be without community support.  BLESS YOU ALL!

    Aidan's Nanni
     
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    ]]>    The Next Step - July 26, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-07-26:b3677473-89b5-4a6a-9ca9-2de327e595e1Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-08-06T18:41:26Z2008-07-26T16:23:00Z As you know, Aidan did not enroll at the Envita Clinic and will not be having Poly-MVA treatments via IV.  There is solid agreement in the family that we still need to do something now to build upon the successes of his current chemotherapy, and not wait to try something else only if the situation turns worse.  But, the hoped for promises of the Envita treatments does not appear to be there and would not justify keeping Aidan and his family away from loved ones for many more months.  As the next step, Aidan will be taking the oral application of the Poly-MVA in combination with his ongoing chemotherapy.  The Poly-MVA has already been purchased and Aidan has already started the daily treatments.  We will be hoping and praying that these oral applications will be close to what the IV would have provided, and will lead to the hoped for successes that originally took Aidan to Scottsdale to start with.    
    While Tanya and Mike are grateful beyond description for all the prayers, hard work, logistics, planning, and financial support they received in hopes of making the Envita treatments possible, Tanya and Mike firmly believe the decision to not go forward is the right decision for Aidan.  They also realize that there may be some of you that donated to Aidan specifically so he could make the trip to Scottsdale to receive these treatments, and now you may be extremely disappointed with this decision.  Valuing your support and prayers more than they could ever communicate, and hoping to ensure you will always be there for them in the future, they wanted it to be possible so that your donation could be refunded.  If your donation was subject to Aidan going through with the treatments in Scottsdale, and you are now wishing for a return of that donation, please write us at HelpAidan@WhyNotAidan.com and we will work to refund your donation as early as possible.

    While it is impossible to Thank You all individually, please know that all you have done to support Aidan is recognized and you and your efforts are appreciated daily.  As part of their prayers each evening, Tanya and Mike thank our God for you and ask that he return the favor to you tenfold.  Your efforts are significant and impressive, and for that Aidan and his entire family are forever grateful.

    Progress Update

    Aidan is still doing quite well and is biding his time until Monday’s scheduled chemotherapy at Phoenix Children’s and his return home to the Tri-Cities on Tuesday.  The pace of his progress has possibly slowed, but things are certainly not getting any worse.  This is actually a good thing because one could assume the tumor is not getting any worse either and may actually be stabilizing.  While he cannot avoid short periods of grumpiness brought on by the steroids, in general his attitude remains upbeat.  He smiles like the old Aidan and his amazing humor remains solidly intact.  All in allexcellent news!

    To help pass the time before Mondays chemotherapy, Aidan and his family took the half day’s drive to southern California and dropped into Disneyland to say hello to Aidan’s old friends Mickey, Buzz, Goofy and others.  The weather was exceptionally cooperative (temperatures in the high 70’s) and that allowed Aidan to really enjoy the trip without getting worn down by the heat.  He absolutely loved the experience and the excellent care provided by the Disneyland staff.  Aidan, Sage, and Mike even were provided with an exclusive ride through Big Thunder Mountain.  When I say exclusive, I mean there was nobody at all placed on the train with them.  Encouraged by those still waiting in line, when their train returned to the station the staff sent them around once again!  Imagine that, an exclusive twofer on Big Thunder Mountain!  How could it get any better?

    Aidan's Family


    PS:  Happy Birthday to Aidan's Daddy!  He is so very lucky to have you.  Looking forward to everybodies return on Tuesday, but until then enjoy Your Day.


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    Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?

    ]]>    A Decision Made - July 23, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-07-23:d3cd1936-0e3a-40ed-9d81-60cf4d8371e9Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-07-26T16:38:28Z2008-07-23T14:59:00Z
      After deep soul searching, and many prayers, the kids have decided to come home.
     
    Aidan did not start his Poly-MVA treatments at the Envita Clinic as was originally planned.  During the consultation session Tanya & Mike asked several pointed questions concerning the Poly-MVA and the success of the treatments.  The Clinic answered all their questions and even prayed with them.  The Poly-MVA that they were going to administer had no special additives over what is available over the counter; the only difference is that the Clinic administrates the Poly-MVA by I.V.  Envita’s expectations were that they would cure Aidan, yet there seemed to be no evidence that this might be the case.

    The kids then met with other DIPG families being treated at the Clinic.  They had some deep conversations about their feelings, expectations, and experiences.  They also discussed the other 3 kids that had DIPG that was treated at the clinic and their realization.  Then while in Phoenix two of the children that had been treated at the Clinic passed
    away.  Both were in progression when they came to the Clinic and left the Clinic before their sessions were completed because of the progression.

    They prayed for clarity and our Lord answered them back, “Take Him Home.”  Even with us coaching them to give it a chance, they firmly said no we need to take Aidan home.  We told them we loved them and would support any decision they made 100 percent.  Their Aunt Debbie and Uncle Sid offered up air miles to bring them home.  Aidan has a Chemo infusion scheduled for Monday at Phoenix Children’s Hospital and then they will head home on Tuesday arriving in Pasco about 5:25 pm.

    This change in plans does not change the need for prayers, donations, and additional treatments.  Aidan still has the tumor progression and the kids, Chet, and Aunt Debbie will be searching for something to build his immune system while he undergoes his bi-weekly Chemo treatments in Seattle.  The drug is being administrate as an off label use, meaning the drug company does not pick up the cost as would be normal if it were a clinical trial.

    Progress Update

    Aidan cheeks have plumped up from the steroids even though he is no longer gaining weight and seems to have stabilized around 50 pounds.  His walking has improved and his right hand is making small improvements in movement and strength.  Aidan’s speech is still quite mumbled, but with patience we do get the jest of what he is trying to say.  Aidan has been begging his parent to come home; he misses his bed, Lucy and Papa.

    Mike has enjoyed his time with his brother, Anthony, and his family.  Mike will be celebrating his Birthday in Arizona this weekend so when you see him be sure and wish him a blessed year with peace and miracles.

    Tallon is growing and gaining weight and we can’t wait to snuggle up to him.  Sage is the best brother in the whole world and always worries about his family before himself.  Sage was going to parochial school last year but with the added expenses due to the cancer progression he will be going to public school with his best friend Roger in the fall which he is looking forward to.

    Tanya is holding up as best as a new mother can with a new baby and a sick child.  She is so strong and her faith will carry her through anything.  Mike also has a strong faith and between them they will both endure; when one of them has their faith weakened, the other helps to pick up the slack.

    Hug you loved ones tight tonight, and say a prayer for my family.  God Bless You.

    Aidan's Nanni
     
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    ]]>    A Decision Like No Others – July 20, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-07-20:fe0cb1ae-8d86-4be5-ae84-70422d051dd4Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-07-26T16:39:31Z2008-07-20T18:46:00Z On Tuesday of last week Aidan had his consultation appointment with the Doctors at Scottsdale’s Envita Clinic.  He then followed that up on Thursday with a appointment at Phoenix Children’s to reacquaint himself with the Doctors there and to get a his blood workup before this weeks scheduled round of chemo.

    The consultation at Envita went as well as could be expected but it also brought with it a degree of uncertainty that did not exist before the appointment.  It was not the Doctors, nurses, staff, or the clinic itself which brought about the uncertainty, but it was an answer to one of the many questions that Tanya & Mike had brought with them.  While there is anecdotal evidence that some Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) children have been helped with the infusion of Poly-MVA, Tanya and Mike were looking for reassurances that the Envita Poly-MVA infusions, in combination with Aidan’s ongoing chemo, had the potential to be “the answer” for Aidan.  Other than to say “all children are different” and it is not possible to predict benefits, the Doctors were unable to describe any prior successes against DIPG tumors. In addition, the Doctors indicated that there is nothing unique about the Poly-MVA treatments at Envita other than they are administered via IV.

    In addition to the answers they had received at their consultation, Tanya and Mike spoke with some other parents whose children are currently or have been treated at the clinic.  With the understanding that none of these other children were currently undergoing chemotherapy at the same time as the Poly-MVA, they were hopeful that the DIPG children’s experiences with the Poly-MVA infusions would provide some reassurances that the Envita Doctors could not.  While the other parents remained hopeful that Envita was the answer for their loved one, they could not describe a direct benefit from which Tanya and Mike could build confidence.

    While this new understanding is not necessarily a show stopper, Tanya and Mike must now decide if the unknown benefit, diminished expectations, tremendous costs, and being so far away from loved ones is better than simply taking Poly-MVA orally at home or doing something else altogether. They have asked their families help in this decision by researching other options including finding a doctor closer to home that would be willing to administer the Poly-MVA via IV or searching out other possible alternatives to combine with Aidan’s ongoing chemo.

    For now, Tanya and Mike have made no firm decisions and have not yet enrolled at Envita.  Instead, they are petitioning our God to help them weigh their options and for clarity in making a decision that would most benefit Aidan.  Tanya, Mike, and all the boys will remain in Arizona at least until they have completed the next round of chemo at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.  By then, they are praying that our God will have provided them the clarity and confidence to make one of the toughest decisions of their lives.
    Progress Update

    The Zaugg’s were guests of Mike’s brother and sister-in-law since landing in Arizona until yesterday.  The family needed larger accommodations so they moved into the donated apartment and they are quite comfortable with the additional space.  They went out and purchased some necessities and groceries and are making themselves at home.

    Aidan continues to do well and continues to show some improvements in his symptoms.  While some of the improvements seem to have reached a plateau and are not getting all that much better, he is walking unassisted more than before and his weight appears to have stabilized at about 50 pounds.  He does smile more, laughs more, and generally seems to be enjoying himself more than he did in prior weeks.  Because he is now more like himself and more mobile than before, and because he is not one that likes to sit still anyways, it is a challenge to keep him inactive and to give his body a chance to rest.  The weather drains Aidan of his stamina and his outdoor time must be limited.

    Please continue your prayers for Aidan’s miracle and ask that our God guides Tanya and Mike to the right decisions,

    Aidan's Family





    Aidan Catching Some Rest

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    Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?
    ]]>    On a Wing and A Prayer - July 14, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-07-14:052f8f8e-1ebc-43c2-bcf7-6e62ce5b3307Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-07-26T16:39:50Z2008-07-14T22:21:00Z Aidan, Tanya, Mike, Sage, and Tallon left for Scottsdale earlier this morning on a wing and a prayer and have put their full faith in our Lord and Aidan supporters to deliver for them. Fundraising efforts are just getting started and when they got on the plane this morning they only had a fraction of the funds required to complete the treatments; did not yet have a place to stay; and did not have any plans in place to take care of the financial needs they were leaving behind. But, before the plane even landed, a generous soul had stepped forward and offered an apartment without costs except for the normal utilities and upon landing Mike’s brother informed them a client was willing to make his model home available for their stay. Then when the went to pick up their rental car, the car rental manager gave them their cell phone number and informed them that they have $8.00 a day specials frequently and when they seen one, to call them and they would extend their contract out for the $8.00 a day until they no longer needed the car. Several examples of unexpected blessings and another step towards Aidan’s miracle.
      
    Aidan & Dad at Chemo Infusion - July 11, 2008
    We will all miss them so very much. Even though it may be for only a few months, there are many broken hearts and puddles of tears being left behind and we are already anticipating their return...


    Treatment and Progress Update

    Aidan completed his second round of his new chemotherapy at Seattle Children’s last Friday. As is quite the norm for him, he handled the poking and prodding without complaint and showed very little concern. Even though he remains symptomatic; the hardest thing for Aidan to do is to simply sit around and to do nothing. When you consider the blood draw, doctor appointment, and eventually the infusion of the chemo, it pretty much takes up the entire day. You can understand where he ended up getting a little impatient and couldn’t wait until everything was completed. It was kind of like taking a road trip and having the little ones ask “are we there yet?”, except Aidan was constantly asking “how much more time?” He was asking so often there were times not even one minute would pass before he was asking us again.

    The combination of this chemotherapy and the multitude of prayers seem to be doing something very positive. It really is reminiscent of when Aidan was first diagnosed and he started his radiation and Iressa treatments. Every day he seems just a little bit better than the day before and he manages to accomplish something new each and every day. He might be starting from a little deeper valley then he had ever experienced in the beginning, but he is most assuredly taking positive steps. The only down side to this is that he is taking steroids and he is already experiencing some of the known side effects. While this situation appears to be improving also, he still eats generously, and more often then he should… this is causing him to gain weight at a fairly rapid pace. We are still pursuing the compassionate use of a synthetically produced human hormone which will allow us to remove him from the steroids once the approval is provided.

    Papa & Nanni
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    Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?]]>    One Week Down - July 3, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-07-03:46bb0e4f-ec60-4a3d-ab28-7eac444b0090Mike and Tanya Zaugg2008-07-26T16:40:11Z2008-07-03T17:11:00Z
    Well it has now been one full week since Aidan had started his new chemotherapy (bevacizumab / irinotecan) and steroids.  After what had been the darkest of times just one short week ago, Aidan has managed to lift our spirits by using each and every day to improve.  His speech is getting better and he is more understandable, his balance is significantly improving, he is no longer seeing double, his swallowing issues have subsided and he is eating foods that he was normally used to eating, his right arm and leg are no longer totally immobile and he is able to walk with assistance and is recovering the use of his right hand.  But best of all, Aidan’s good nature and humor have returned and he has managed to make us laugh more than we thought possible under the circumstances.

    This new chemotherapy is being taken outside the constraints of a Clinical Trial.  We are doing this so that we can try other treatments in addition to this chemotherapy alone.  This would not be possible if Aidan was enrolled in the official trial for these drugs.  We intend to make this new chemotherapy only the first prong of a multiple prong attack against this Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma.  In addition to the ongoing chemotherapy we are hoping to also treat Aidan with Poly-MVA at the Envita Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona.  Aidan’s first consultation appointment in Scottsdale is currently scheduled for July 14th.  If things go well and we are successful in raising a good portion of the necessary funds, we intend to do both of these treatments simultaneously, and in doing so, we believe Aidan will be the first to give this particular approach a try.

    For two years Aidan successfully fought off this most cruel of cancers and in doing so he had became a beacon of hope and inspiration to others.  We believe this next challenge will be a continuation of that miracle and he will successfully fight this one more time.  With a full understanding of the implications of a progression / reoccurrence diagnosis, we will again ignore the odds and confidently march towards Aidan’s miracle.  We ask that you continue your prayers and chose to believe with us.  Believe that one, two, maybe three years from now Aidan Zaugg will once again be that beacon of hope and show the world that with our Gods help, you can even beat a DIPG progression diagnosis.

    With love and thanks for all you are doing to help bring about this miracle,

    Aidan's Family


       

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    Miracles Happen Everyday... Why Not Aidan?
    ]]>    Update - June 25, 2008tag:updates.whynotaidan.com,2008-06-26:99c70c2f-0976-43dc-b5af-5dbd2c45edfeMike and Tanya Zaugg2008-07-05T14:44:47Z2008-06-26T00:20:00ZWell the PET/CT scan went well on Tuesday, Aidan held still and they got good pictures. Daddy promised him a trip to Toys R Us afterwards and he gathered up a few Wall-E toys there.  He was mildly sedated before the scan so he was not able to walk after the test, so after they got back to Tanya’s Aunt and Uncle’s house Aidan went down for a nap.  The doctors wanted Aidan to start on his steroids so some of his tumor symptoms would slow down by decreasing the inflammation in his brain.  After his nap he was back to his old self – personality wise.  He was able to support himself when sitting and his head/neck strength was stronger.  On a trip to Target late in the afternoon today, he begin to lip-sync (still hard to understand him) to an Alvin and the Chipmunk’s song with all the gestures to go along with it.  This cheered his Papa up.

    Now for the scan reading today; Dr. Geyer says it is progression with necrosis, the tumor board also determined the same DX.  Aidan will have his first infusion Thursday morning with Avastin.  What is so strange is that there appeared to be no tumor activity wihin Aidan’s brainstem except for the immediate area sorrounding the necrosis.  When you have a diffused glioma, the cancer is peppered throughout the entire brainstem and yet none of the other cancerous cells appear to be progressing.  Aidan’s tumor is doing quirky things, this actually gives us a small glimmer of hope, even though the doctors do not think so.

    The family will be returning late tomorrow evening; Aidan is anxiously waiting to see Wall-E and asks us each day when it will be in the theatre.  I plan on picking up tickets Thursday for Friday's premier showing.  So, as you can see, we have some really fun activity planned for Friday.

    It is late and I must go - I have a conference call scheduled for 7:00 am sharp tomorrow.

    Please say a special prayer for Cooper, Dave, Angie and their families.  We know the numbness they are going through, and our hearts ache with them.  No parent should have to deal with this ugly monster who wins over and over, somebody needs to kick its behind.

     

    God bless you all for storming heaven with Prayers in Aidan's honor yesterday and today.  Please continue to pray for that miracle that both Aidan and Cooper deserve.

    Cath
    Aidan's Nanni