Derek's Story: Surviving Hurler Syndrome
Derek Hanewacker of Flint, Michigan was diagnosed with Hurler Syndrome at 10 months old. Hurler Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive physical and mental deterioration. If this disease is left untreated, patients typically do not live past the age of 10 years-old. Derek's parents Holly and Scott learned that the best place to treat Derek's disease was at the University of Minnesota Children's Hospital, using stem cell therapy treatments funded in part by grants from Children's Cancer Research Fund.
Derek's workup for his umbilical cord blood transplant began during the month of January. Holly was able to stay in Minnesota with Derek as he prepared for his transplant, Scott unfortunately, had to return home to work as he became the sole financial provider. High costs of airfare and poor winter driving conditions would limit Scott's visits. Families recognize that stem cell transplant day is one filled with celebration and hope - hope of a new beginning and a chance at life without the devastating effects of cancer or rare illness.
Scott was going to miss this important milestone, because making the choice to pay medical bills outweighed costly flights. Fortunately, for the Hanewackers, a Child Family Life specialist surprised them with a Care Flight!
Scott arrived early in the morning before Derek woke up on transplant day! When Derek saw his dad - he clapped his hands and smiled. The generosity of SkyMiles donors allowed Scott to be there for Derek's big day, standing with his wife Holly, and grateful to witness this milestone together.
Reference
Children's Cancer Research Fund, (2015). Retrieved from
Hi Shelita!
ReplyDeleteYou were right, this story did speak to my spirit! It is so wonderful to see how others will come to the aid of those less fortunate! So many families live in situations like these and go unrecognized. I'm glad to see that Derrick was able to receive treatment and have his beloved father there. things like this are what truly help people through times of turmoil. I have seen positive spirit treatments work for so many people, especially for cancer patients. It is a tough ailment to endure what with the right attitude, spirit and energy it can become less stressful. Thanks for sharing!
This story is one of many amazing stories. The very ending when you talked about Derek clapping his hands when he woke up brought a smile to my face. It is very sad when families can not stay together because of financial issues. Most of the world today has to work to stay afloat. Its good to know there are still amazing, helpful people in our world.
ReplyDelete