Dillan J. - Quilt Finished in 2007
Born: July 21, 2000
Illness: GanglioNeuroblastoma Stage IV
Dillan J.'s Story
Written by Dillan's mom Ashley in 2007
It all began Friday, November 3, 2006. We were going to Dillan's first NASCAR Race at Texas Motor Speedway. We checked into the hotel that night and about 4 AM on November 4th, Dillan woke up complaining that he was having a hard time breathing. After two unsuccessful breathing treatments, we checked out of the hotel and went to the closest ER, Los Colinas. It was there that a chest x-ray was taken and the doctor discovered a "mass" in Dillan's lung. We were transferred to Medical City Children's Hospital of Dallas. That is where Dr. Goldman introduced himself and then told us that he thought that the "mass" was indeed a tumor. After many tests including a CAT Scan, PET Scan, MRI, and blood work, it was confirmed that it was Neuroblastoma. Dr. Goldman told us that there were approximately 7 tumors.
The first surgery that Dillan underwent was Monday, November 6, 2006. It would be a minor surgery to remove a small tumor in his groin area. After biopsy, it was determined to be benign. What a miracle!
The second surgery would then be scheduled for Thursday, November 9, 2006. The primary tumor that was located on Dillan's left adrenal gland was removed. They determined is was about the size of a softball. The biopsy results came as being 98% benign with 2% malignancy.
Two weeks later we re-scanned. The tumors had grown and now there were approximately 15 tumors in all and more than likely we would find more.
On December 1, 2006, Dillan started a very intensive chemotherapy which included 5 rounds of the following drugs: Doxorubicin, Cytoxan, Vincristine, Etoposide, Cisplatin.
March 2007- Stem Cell Harvest
April 2007- Begin Accutane
March 2008- Begin Temodar
