Striking Back with Cody: 1 Year Anniversary of Surgery

Thursday, September 22, 2011

1 Year Anniversary of Surgery

September 20th marked the 1 year anniversary of Cody's Surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX. For those who don't remember Dr. Hayes-Jordan removed around 100 tumors from Cody's abdomen. It's hard to believe it has already been that long. The days all blend together and while things have calmed down a bit and Cody has been able to get back to a semi normal life we are all realizing that life will never be the normal we remember. Cody has come a long way and we thank God everyday he is doing as well as he is.

Cody went back to school but missed his second week and a few more days. Going back to school full time after being off for over a year was a bit much so they went in and spoke with his counselor. They decided to cut back his schedule. He dropped his last 2 classes and will continue to do online classes to try to catch up. Cody still takes a chemo pill (Cytoxan) every other day and continues to go to Fallon or Carson City once a month for an IV infusion of Vinorelbline also known as Navelbine. In fact, tomorrow they are heading to Carson City for his monthly infusion. Cody signed up for a Bowling League and will start bowing again on October 3rd, the Monday League with two of his best friends Torrey and Freddie. It's good to see him get back to doing some of the things he used to enjoy. He is doing a lot better but the chemo still wears him out and makes him feel sick so he has to be careful not to overdo it.

The community support has continued to be overwhelming. At the Tri-County Fair over Labor Day weekend the Men's Pig Wrestling Team won 1st place and presented Cody with a check. This type of support is greatly appreciated and was so unexpected. Thank you to the Men who participated and raised money to help Cody with his treatment. I know I've said this before but just saying "Thank you" doesn't seem like enough. Without the kind, generous hearts of those in the community this "battle" would be a lot more difficult. Thank you for reminding us all that there are still many good people out there.

Cody will head back to Texas next month for a follow up with Dr. Anderson and more scans to see if the chemo is working. Hopefully the cancer has shrunk. Please continue to keep Cody in your prayers he is a strong person who has been through so much in such a short time. He is doing so much better than expected and the continued prayers and support are very much appreciated.

Thank You and God Bless!!

Cheryl Stout (Cody's Sister)

Post a Comment

A little about the Cancer

Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor, also know as DSRCT, is considered a childhood cancer that is predominantly found in boys and young adults. It is an extremely rare, highly aggressive cancer that is usually found as masses in the abdomen. Desmoplastic small round cell tumor is frequently misdiagnosed which is why the prognosis remains poor. This is an aggressive, rare, fast spreading tumor.

There is no standard protocol for treatment but it usually includes aggressive Chemotherapy, Radiation, and Surgery.

A special thank you...

Russ and Janae want to personally thank their families for being so supportive. They wouldn't be able to do this without each and every one of you. There have been so many donations coming in and fundraisers being put together by members on both sides of the family. Thank you so much for all the love and support.

"You don't choose your family, they are God's gift to you, like you are to them" - Desmond Tutu

A big Thank You, also, goes out to the the Town of Winnemucca. The community has pulled together in so many ways to show their support it is overwhelming. Thank you!!!

Thank you to Connors Drilling and all of the employees. Connors asked the employees, Russ's co-workers, for a voluntary paycheck deduction that would go to Cody's Cancer Fund. A big thank you to all the many generous people who participated. Thanks to you a good chunck of money was raised to help with Cody's medical costs.

Upcoming Fundraisers

Striking Back with Cody Wristbands Awareness wristbands can be purchased at the HAMS in Winnemucca for anyone interested in showing their support. Family members also have awareness bands or know where to get them. 2 Brothers Communications Fundraiser 2 Brothers communications Verison Wireless 508 W Winnemucca Blvd. Ste B Winnemucca NV, 89445 (775) 625-2355 April 1st through May 31st 2 Brothers Communications will donate a portion of sales for ANY new activation or upgrade (no stipulations) to the families of Cody Nielson and Kylie Hilbish. Verizon Wireless has also agreed to match the donation with a contribution of their own.