MERRY CHRISTMAS..

Today we received the best Christmas news that we could have received, Hunter's PET scan came out clean and clear. Thank you God for answering our prayers! He truly is AMAZING. As our children were growing up, at each christmas time I would always tell them that, "If they didn't believe, they wouldn't receive." I never knew how that would relate to ALL of us on SO many levels as our family would continue to grow and go through life experiences. "WE" truly have to believe..BELIEVE in all that is possible, all that is good, and of course ALL that CAN BE. Believe in the power of prayer, and God. We are so blessed is so many ways.

We hope that each of you have the Merriest of Christmases and a WONDERFUL New Year ahead of you. We are TRULY blessed to have each and everyone of you in our lives. THANK YOU for all that you have done for Hunter and our family through-out the year. May God bless you and your families.

Our love to ALL,
The Herrick Family,
Joseph, Jeanna, Lauryn, HUNTER and Maddison

December's Doctors Visit..

Hunter had his doctor's visit last Thursday on December 2nd. The visit was a pretty routine one. Took blood, was weighed, was checked out and talked to the doctors for a little while. Since we are not in there daily, or weekly anymore it is nice to see them and talk to them all in the office. They are all truly ALL amazing people there. I think Hunter almost gave his doctor a heart attack though when he asked her about getting a tattoo after his 18th birthday in January. She asked why and he said he wanted a cross and rosary to remember what he has been through and she told him to just wear one or just look at the scare on his back. It was pretty cute.... He was a little bummed that it can't even be talked about until his one year mark which will be in July, but it gives him something to look forward to and also something to really think about. I'm sure it will be more around after around his two year mark, since that is so critical for him, but I guess time will tell.

Hunter has a PET scan scheduled for this Wednesday the 8th of December. Please keep him and clean test results in your daily prayers! This would truly be the best christmas present I/we could ask for. We will keep you posted as the test results come in.

Thank you for all of your love, support and prayers. May your holiday season be full of love, laughter and many joyful memories that will last a lifetime.

All of our love,
The Herrick Family - Joe, Jeanna, Lauryn, HUNTER, and Maddison

We are truly THANKFUL for each and everyone of YOU..

First of all we'd like to let each and everyone of you know that we are truly THANKFUL for you ALL! We hope that everyone had a Thanksgiving that was filled with family, love, and memories. Our was one that was just that. We were able to spend a lot of time as a family, and some quiet time at home. Days like that just don't come around too often any more. Joseph and Hunter were also able to get in a half day of Hunting which is always a special time for the two of them. This Thanksgiving was a relaxing one but one that was very much welcomed.

Hunter spent the first half of his break filling out College applications and getting them all in before the end of the month. It was exciting to watch that for us. It's the little joys in our lives that you never take for granted anymore. Hunter would really like to go away to a UC College but we will see what happens. He knows for this to happen he will have to have major scholarships, so at this point the last thing we want to do is discourage him. He worked on two essays to go to these schools. One was extremely long, "What has made an impact on his life and how did it change him?", A REAL tear jerker for mom, the other was, "What makes your community so unique?". This one also brought tears to my eyes because even though he was going through so much at the time, he still was aware of all that was going on. He said that this was a hard essay to write because it had to be a short essay and he had to limit what he could write. He couldn't write all that he wanted to. I wanted to share this essay with you, although it is a little long, it's his own words on how you ALL touched him and what it meant to him: By HUNTER HERRICK....

Through my experience with cancer I have realized I come from a phenomenal community, family, and school. When I was going through chemotherapy my community pulled together and pretty much saved my families life. They put together fundraisers to keep us from losing our house, cars, pay medical bills, and pretty much everything. They even helped bring my family Christmas presents when we could not afford our own. Their kindness really showed how a small community could make such a big difference in some ones life.

Because of the helped I received I became involved in my community because you never know when you’ll get the opportunity to make a major difference in some ones life like they made in mine. I have gone through so much and been helped by my community and am now starting to give back. I am now volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club to help kids get through their days. These kids don’t really have much of a family, so I volunteer to help be a role model in their lives. I help them do their homework, play games, and hopefully help them live a better life, or have a better day.
My community has really inspired me to be a better person and be as helpful as possible. I would like to use my experience to be able to help other people get through their hardships. I am thinking about becoming a psychiatrist for kids and families that have to go through some of the things I had to go through, because I know that everyone needs a shoulder to cry on at some point in their life.

Thank you again for all being there and being that difference in our lives. For all of you that we know, see daily, monthly, yearly, don't know, basically each and everyone of YOU...We thank GOD everyday that you came into our lives....

We Love You,
Our Love, Thoughts, and Prayers,
The Herrick's,

Doctor's Visit

Life has been moving along in the Herrick Home. Hunter had a doctors appointment last week, and as with every doctors appointment we kind of hold our breathe. This was just a check up and it happen to be the same week as Hunter's one year Anniversary since he was told that his cancer had returned the second time. Not an Anniversary we like to remember or celebrate, but one that is there none the less. Hunter's doctor wants me/us to keep an eye on the area that they were concerned with and make sure that it doesn't get any bigger, wider or nothing abnormal occurs with it. We need to check the area weekly and if we see anything than take him in right away if we do. We are praying that those days are over and we will see nothing but happy, HEALTHY and memorable days ahead of us.

Hunter has been getting ready and filling out college applications. He is really hoping to go away to college but that will all depend on what kind of scholarships he can get. We truly feel that he just wants to start new, start where no one knows all that he has been through and begin fresh. I am praying that his dreams come true, and he starts to live the life that he was intended to live. He is one amazing young man with such a bright future ahead of him..

THANK YOU everyone for ALL of your LOVE, SUPPORT and PRAYERS,
The Herrick Family

PET Scan..

THANK YOU GOD..The PET Scan came back clean, NO Cancer Cells..

A LONGGGG Week..

We started the week off on Tuesday, due to the holiday. I called the doctor to just verify the time of Hunter's doctors appointment of Wednesday and asked if the CT scan results were in. The receptionist told me that the CT scan was in, the doctor wanted to talk to me but she was busy with patients and that she would call me back. After about an hour and almost going into a major panic attack I called back, but still couldn't get ahold of the doctor. I asked to speak to one of the nurses and she told me that from what she could tell the CT scan looked good and that the doctor would still call me back later. I finally talked to the doctor at about 7p.m. and when we talked she said that the CT scan looked good. She didn't see anything that we should be worried about and that she would like to wait to run anymore tests for 3 more months. She wanted to wait because Hunter has had so much radiation that she really didn't want to give him a PET scan if it wasn't necessary.

Joe took Hunter to his doctors appointment the next day, and the doctor was concerned about an area that was raised a little. So, she ordered a PET scan to be done on him. We had the Pet scan on Friday, late afternoon/evening. I am praying and hoping that we get the results back soon as possible...like yesterday would have been nice for us. We are praying that it is his muscles growing back together, or some other easy explanation. That is what we are thinking it is, but when life throws us the curve balls that have come Hunter's way, each and every time we hear "concerned", we too panic a bit. Please keep Hunter in your daily prayers, he truly is an amazing young man, but when it comes down to it he still is just a boy at heart.....

All of our LOVE and PRAYERS,
The Herrick Family

Hunter Begins His Senior Year..

This week was a GREAT week. Its a week that we thank God for the little things in our life. Hunter began school this week, his first week of his Senior year. He is loving his classes, his teaches and best of all seeing all of his friends again. He did have to miss some school already this week due to a CT scan that he had on Monday but tests and doctor apts. are still going to be happening, but thats something we can adjust to.

Hunter is feeling good, he started back to work at Dalton's Restaurant and his hair has finally started to grow back. It took a long time for his hair to grow back this time. We think that it was because of the intense treatment at City of Hope, with Stem Cells and Chemo. He just went on his annual Dove opener with his dad and grandpa, all the little things that we are so happy he is able to do again.

He has an appointment with his Oncologist next week so we will know more about the rest of the tests that he still has to take and when. Looking forward to taking those and getting the results back..

Sending our love and thanks to ALL...
The Herrick Family

Doctors Update..

This week we have had a busy week visiting doctors. We saw the Radiologist and Oncology doctor and one more visit to the doctors tomorrow. Hunter is doing well, healing well, and went back to his job at Dalton's.

The Radiologist said that his back is looking good, he has one more area that still needs to heal and then he will be good to go as far as his back is concerned. That will probably take a week or so and when it does he'll finally be able to go into the Ocean and do what he loves, bodyboarding! He has really, really missed that and can't wait to do it again. He'll be there soon and for that he is so excited. He gave Hunter the go ahead to start working out again, although he did tell him not to push himself and realize that it will take awhile to get there and to listen to his body. The good news he gave us is that we don't have to go back and see him anymore....YEAH....one doctor marked off of our list. He is an amazing doctor and we really liked him but it's also great to see that part of Hunter's treatment over.

At the Oncologist today we did Hunter's normal lab work that he has to do for his monthly check ups. He saw his doctor and she said that all looks great. Hunter has lost about 10 pounds from when he started Chemo about a year ago and this is a good weight for him, which they were happy with. They are going to set up a CT scan which will take place at the end of the month or the beginning of September. We go back to see the Oncologist on September 8th and hopefully then they will set up more scans and tests. She is not exactly sure when she wants to take those because she want's Hunter's bone marrow to "settle". I'm not sure if I will "settle" until I actually hear those "cancer free" words, and even then it's still a bit of a journey before anything and everything "settles". These past three plus years have left Hunter with many highs and lows which has left him with many things to work out. Please continue to keep him in your prayers for complete and total healing. Although, this has been a long journey we learn to appreciate ALL the little bits of joy that come into our lives each and everyday.

EACH and EVERYONE of you will forever be in our HEARTS, there are NO words that can thank everyone for all that they have done for Hunter and our Family....We are truly BLESSED!!!

All of our LOVE,
The Herrick Family

Doctors Visit..

We went to see Hunter's doctors and it was of course great to see all of those that we haven't seen in such a long time. The doctor said that Hunter looked great and was also very happy to see him after his long battle away! She looked at his back and told us pretty much what everyone else has been telling us, to keep the creme on it at all times so that it doesn't get infected. Hunter has a lot of open area on his back from his skin peeling from the radiation. The area needs time to heal and recover from all that it has been through. The doctor wants him to wait to start working out until he gets a release from his radiation doctor. That appointment is scheduled for mid-August. He is looking forward to slowly starting to get back in shape. I'm sure that his body will tell him his limits. We have to go back to see his Oncologist in August. At that time they will schedule all the tests that Hunter will need to take. They will have Hunter take all of these tests at the end of August so that they don't come back with a false positive (due to radiation). We do not want that to happen so we will wait as long as necessary, although it is probably one of the hardest things to do.

Hunter looks great and is feeling great too. This past weekend we went to a friends house at June Lake and he went fishing which he hasn't done in many years. He fell in love with it all over again. It was great to see him enjoying himself and having fun like a 17 year old should. Thank you to the Isreal Family for letting us use their beautiful home at June Lake. Many wonderful, amazing memories were made...

Thank you again for everyones LOVE, SUPPORT and PRAYERS. There isn't a day that goes by that we don't THANK GOD for all the wonderful people we have in our lives.

LOVE, THE HERRICK FAMILY

TREATMENTS ALL DONE..

Hunter has finally reached home plate with ALL of his treatments being complete! YEAH.... We finished up radiation last week and he couldn't be happier. I'm sure that it's a feeling that everyone is sharing with us. Our family knows with all of our hearts that we could have NEVER gotten through these months without all of the love, support, and prayers from those ALL around us. From those that we have known for years, just met and those that we have never met, there truly are no words that can THANK YOU everyone for all that they have done for Hunter and our family. Each and everyone of you will forever be in our hearts.

Hunter has a doctors appointment on Wednesday with his regular Oncologist, which we haven't seen in a couple months since the beginning of City of Hope. We are assuming that we are going to have our follow up tests, which is what we really want as soon as possible so that we can hear that he is cancer free. We're not sure if they have to wait a certain amount of time after radiation or not but we will find out on Wednesday. We will keep everyone updated as we get information and test results but until then THANK YOU AGAIN for everything...

All of our love,
The Herrick Family

Last WEEK of Radiation..

We are in the last week of Hunter's radiation. He is very excited about this but at the same time very sore. The area that they are doing radiation on is very tender to the touch and is peeling. This makes it even more tender since the skin under is extremely raw. After radiation today we saw the doctor and they gave him some new creme to try applying to the area, it's a creme that they give to burn victims so we are hoping that it will do wonders for him. He is really dreading this last week but Hunter will push through it like he has each and every other day. The doctor said that it will probably take about a month or so till his new skin recovers. She said that he should limit some of the things that he does until the skin is recovered. That was tough for Hunter to hear because he just wants some of his summer.

We have a doctors appointment a week from Wednesday with his regular Oncologist and we'll know more then as to what the next step is. Until then we just look forward to being done with this week.

THANK you for ALL of your continued LOVE and SUPPORT
The Herrick Family

The Beginning of Hunter's Fifth Week

Hunter is starting his fifth week of radiation. We/HE only has NINE days left of radiation..YEAH!! Hunter is feeling the soreness on his back and through-out his whole body. His skin gets tender to the touch, especially when we put the lotions or gels on. His skin is really dry and starting to bubble a little around the scar. We have been trying to put things on it to help him feel better and they do help but it will be all a matter of time. Hopefully the next nine days will just fly by and Hunter's radiation area won't get to unbearable.

I am hoping to talk to Hunter's doctors this week to find out what our next steps are. I am assuming that we will have all of our tests to take to make sure that Hunter is still clear. I'm just not sure if there is a waiting period after radiation until he can get this done.

We will keep everyone updated as we get the information.

THANK YOU for ALL of your LOVE, PRAYERS, and CONTINUED support. We could have never made it without each and everyone of you. We are truly BLESSED and there are no words that can express how much we appreciate all that everyone has done for Hunter and our family.

Love to ALL..The Herrick Family <3

Radiation..

Hunter is going into his third week of radiation and handling it pretty well so far. His back is more tender is some areas than others, but I am assuming that is normal. They tell us that with each and every radiation this will happen. Our Dr. widened the margin on the area that was being radiated during the second week because we were a little concerned that the whole area that the tumors were would not be covered completely. The Dr. was going off the MRI's and all of the scans and since he personally didn't see Hunter before the tumors were removed, he said that he would rather be on the safe side and widen the margins to cover everything. That of course made Joe and I feel a little better, just knowing that it will ALL be covered no matter what. Hunter is almost half way done with this journey and then we are told that he will have tests to take when this is done. Day by day right now and then we will cross that bridge when it gets here, BUT we are getting closer and closer to those days.

Although Hunter was advised by his doctor that it wasn't a great idea to go in the ocean for a swim or two, he just had to go and get wet. He had been saving his money and was able to get a great wet suit which really helped. On the 30th of May, he and his friends went to Laguna for the day and he was able to get back in the water for the first time again. It's the little things like this that truly bring tears of joy, the excitement that he had was amazing! He was able to go to the beach a couple more times until his wet suit started to bother his back. He knew that this would happen but he just wanted to get in for the short time that he could. Now he is just counting down the days till he is able to enjoy summer completely.

Hunter has been doing great with school. He will be winding that up soon and will be finishing right along with everyone else. He kept up great and his GPA this year was amazing. He is looking forward to being a Senior next year!


Thank you for ALL of your LOVE and CONTINUED SUPPORT,
The Herrick Family

Central Line Came Out Today!!!

Today was a great day for Hunter, he was able to get his central line out of his chest. He can't wait to actually sleep on his stomach and not have a big bulky line stabbing at him. Today is Tuesday May 25, 2010 and Hunter got his second central line taken out and two years ago on June 4th 2008 is when he got his first line taken out. We are hoping and praying that this is the last and final time that we will ever have to have anything to do with a central lines.

Hunter began radiation on Monday the 24th and he said that it wasn't too bad. It was a little uncomfortable as to the way he is positioned but other than that it wasn't too bad. The doctor's are saying that it will take about two to three weeks before it will become tender and sore. We need to find some 100% Aloe Vera Lotion or Gel to put on it or the actual plant. Hopefully we will be able to begin that soon.

We are being told that Hunter's last day of radiation will be on July 1st, 2010, as long as all goes as planned. We are hoping and praying for smoother days in June so that July will be here before we know it. After Radiation, Hunter will still have to under go some testing and then hopefully he will be able to enjoy the rest of his summer before starting his Senior Year :)

Love and Prayers to ALL,
The Herrick Family

Radiation BEGINS Tomorrow..

Hunter will begin a new journey tomorrow of the unknown. He will be getting radiation for six weeks, five days a week. His appointment is at 12:30 tomorrow and Tuesday they will begin at 10:12 a.m. This is what we have been told so far but it can change and I'm sure we will be told more tomorrow and confirm all future appointments. We are still trying to get his line in his chest taken out but are running into a few problems. The doctors said that he can get it done it's just that we can't get in to see anyone soon. The soonest one of our doctors could get us in would be June 11th and Hunter really wants it out, like tomorrow. We have talked to one of our other doctors to see if they could possibly take it out in Los Angeles after one of his radiation appointments and we are waiting for a call back from them. For Hunter this is one of the hardest things, he hates having the central line. Hopefully we will hear something tomorrow or soon about getting this done.

We will keep you posted and let you know how Hunter is doing with the radiation. The doctors told us that he should be doing fine for at least the first two weeks and then he might get some of the side effects. Everyone is different as we have been told too, so we will see. Hunter is amazing and if they say he can't do something, he will do his best to prove them wrong.

All of our LOVE and PRAYERS to ALL,
The Herrick Family

Radiation BEGINS on May 23rd..

Hunter has been feeling pretty good and is excited to move on to the next phase. He has had many doctors appointments since he has been home from his Stem Cell Replacement, they have been keeping up with his counts and his overall health. He has also been to see the Radiologist Specialist, get some tests done and talked to misc. doctors about the radiation and the process. Hunter will begin radiation on Monday, May 23rd. He will be getting radiation for six weeks, five days a week and this will be done in Los Angeles at the Kaiser Permanente in Sunset. We are hoping to hear from one of his doctors in the next day or two about getting Hunter's Central Line taken out of his chest. Hunter is aware that he is going to have to get poked a lot but he would rather get poked then keep the line in. We are hoping that the doctors will agree too!

We went to our last doctors appointment at City of Hope today, they released Hunter back to Kaiser Permanente. We met a lot of amazing people there and they will never realize what a difference they made in our lives. There are no words to THANK them enough for all that they did for Hunter and our family. It is a great Hospital with a wonderful staff to go along with it.

Hunter will reach his 30 day mark since his Stem Cell Replacement on Thursday the 20th of May. He is very excited for this day because he will be off of certain restrictions but most of all he will be able to eat "fast" food. He can't wait!!! Hunter lost his taste buds during this whole process but they are almost all back. Just in time for the enjoy all the junk food, which is a good thing I guess. Hunter has been able to keep his weight pretty stable considering all. He has lost about seven or eight pounds through this process but we are hoping that will come back soon. Each and everyday he is getting stronger, feeling better and all around looking great!

Thank you EVERYONE for your CONTINUED love, support, and prayers..
The Herrick Family

26 Days and WE are HoMe..

Hunter is home after 26 days at City of Hope, It was a long journey but could have been a lot longer than it was. The Doctors, Nurses, PCA's and Staff were amazing there and there are no words that could thank them enough for ALL that they have done for Hunter and our family. Hunter had his ups and downs during his Stem Cell Replacement but he truly is amazing and came through it extremely strong. We are home now and although he is feeling well he still has to take it easy and not over due it. He doesn't want to get sick or end up back in the hospital. Hunter has a lot of restrictions till his 30 day mark since his Stem Cells were placed. That puts him at May 19th until he will have a little more room to roam free without a mask, and other fun things. Hunter has a doctors appointment on Monday at the City of Hope and Tuesday with the Radiation doctor. We are looking forward to seeing what they have to say and we will of course pass on all information as we get it.

We hope that ALL of our friends and family have a wonderful Mother's Day weekend. May you remember to take time to enjoy all the little things because those are the things that we sometimes overlook.

All of our LOVE and PRAYERS,
The Herrick Family

May 5th..Day25..

Hunter is still feeling great and ready to go home. His counts are still really good and it's looking like we are going to be going home on Thursday the 6th..Day 26. Hunter has set the "new" record at City of Hope! He is the first Auto-Stem Cell patient to go home that early. Auto Stem Cell simply means that he received his own stem cells and not a strangers. Hunter is still going to have follow up doctor appointments, as we already have one scheduled for Monday. He is also going to have to still be extremely careful as to what he does so he doesn't get sick, over due it or do anything that is going to cause him to end up back in the hospital. Just because he is being released doesn't mean he is able to do everything that he could before and trying to explain that to him hasn't been real easy. Hunter is feeling good so he thinks that he can do anything but it is still going to take some time for his "actual" cells to really take ahold and be as strong as they were to begin with. We have an appointment with the doctors today so we will find out more information about his release but "we" are really looking forward to going home.

This month long journey has been a long one, but one we can now mark off the calendar..

THANK you for your FRIENDSHIP and LOVE,
The Herrick Family

Monday the 3rd..DAY 23

Hunter's counts are still up and he is feeling really good. He had a nice weekend since he was able to have visitors and some friends came up and spent some time with him. This made a huge difference in how he felt, his attitude, and his whole well being. Hunter has been eating pretty well, his mouth and throat sores are better, and he is ready to go home... We talked to the doctor today and they took him off some of his medications and if his counts continue to be stabilized, he continues to eat and all goes well, he might be able to go home at the end of the week. YEAH!! The doctors all have to talk, monitor him for at least a couple more days and then they will let us know.

We are keeping our fingers crossed and saying a lot of prayers that the progress continues..

Thank you for all of your LOVE, SUPPORT and PRAYERS,
The Herrick Family

Friday..April 30th..

Hunter was up most of the night, but it wasn't because he was sick, it was because he was hooked on a DVD Series that was given to him by a friend. Hunter did wake up with some muscle pain still so they started him back on his medications to help with the pain. He also got a little rash on his legs and arms but they said that this too can sometimes happens. Hunters counts today were GREAT! The doctors said his bone marrow was working extra hard with his stem cells yesterday and it was obvious by his counts. His WBC (white blood counts) went from .200 to 1.5 and his ANC went from 100 to 1,200. What we want to see now is his counts stabilize or of course get better for at least three days. After three days they will start to take him off of some of his medications to see how his counts do on their own. They know he is going to need blood and platelet transfusions and are not worried about that. They just want to see how all the other numbers do. Hunter did pretty well today, is eating a little more each time, his mouth and throat sores are almost better and is improving everyday.

Hunter was given the alright to have visitors come and visit him...YEAH!! They do have to wear a mask and gloves when they go into his room but that is standard protocol anyway. They do ask that you be over the age of 15 and I'm not sure how many visitors they will let in at one time. It really depends on the nurse and how strict she is. So, if you have some free time I'm sure Hunter would LOVE to see you!!

Thank you for your SUPPORT, LOVE and PRAYERS.....
WE are Truly Blessed...
The Herrick Family

Thursday..April 29th..

Today was another day filled with some ups and downs, as they all seem to have lately. Although this one seemed to have a few more ups than downs, which is a great thing. Hunter went the second night in a row without having the chills, so it looks like the pre-med of steroids are working. His counts also went up this morning which was a "wonderful" thing. His WBC (white blood counts) went to .200 and better yet his ANC went from 0 to 100 and his Mono Cites went to 36% which is a really great sign that the Stem Cells are starting to work! YEAH!! I know that a lot of these probably don't make sense to a lot of you but it's all great signs that the Stem Cells are starting to work and his counts are coming up. Hunter was in a lot of pain today though, his bones were hurting him, especially in his lower backs. His back was absolutely killing him to the point where he couldn't move. They gave him some Tylenol and Morphine through-out the day to help with the pain. It really seemed to help him and the doctor said that this can happen for a day or two due to the fact that it is probably the Stem Cells taking hold to the bone marrow. So in a way this is a good thing but unfortunately it has to cause Hunter so much pain. Hunters mouth and throat soars seem to be getting better and causing him less pain. Today for the first time in almost a week Hunter actually ate a little bit of "real" food. He didn't eat a ton but a little at a time is better than nothing. Hunter is taking a lot of small steps to the road to recovery.

Thank You Everyone For Your Continued LOVE, SUPPORT and PRAYERS...
The Herrick Family

Wednesday..28th of April..

Today was a day of ups and downs for Hunter. The doctors tried giving him a steroid as a pre-med to see if this would stop the chills at night and it must have helped because no chills. Hunters WBC (White Blood Counts) went down a little today, but as we were told the other day when it's this low it's kind of a guess of exactly how many cells are there because there are so few. Hunter did have to get a platelet transfusion today due to counts being so low. He still has a weak stomach and can't really eat much or keep things down. Hunter wants to eat and "likes" the idea of eating but when it comes down to it he just can't do it. He was able to eat a little bit of his favorite bread that dad brought to him.

The doctors are telling us that he is doing great and right where he is suppose to be. They say in the next few days his counts should be coming up. So that's what we will be praying for...

Thank you for your continued support,
Love the The Herrick Family

Tuesday..April 27th..

Hunter woke up again last night with the chills about 2:30 a.m. so he had to get Demeral again to calm them down. He still did not get a fever which was a true blessing, and one less thing for him to fight off. We got his counts about 4:30 a.m. and his red blood cell were a little low so he had to get another blood transfusion about 6 a.m. His WBC (white blood counts) remained the same, which is better than dropping. I am hoping to see those rise tomorrow or real soon. As those rise it means that the Stem Cells are taking ahold to his bone marrow and re-producing different blood cells, which is what we want to see. Hunters mouth and throat soars are a little better today, the treatments 4x's a day really seem to be helping.

Hunter still isn't eating, although he seemed like he was in a little better mood today. He had some what of a busy day with his music lessons and then we played a card game with one of the ladies Jessica that works here. It really seemed to break up the day and went fast, which is always a good thing.

All of our LOVE and PRAYERS to ALL..
The Herrick Family

Monday..

Today seemed like a long but quiet day. Hunter had woke up in the middle of the night, about 3 a.m. with a extreme case of the chills. It is one of the side effects of one of the medications that he is on, so he had to get some Demeral to relax and calm down. At that point I was really worried that a fever might follow but so far we have been blessed and that hasn't happen. Today when the results of Hunters counts came in his WBC (White Blood Cells) had gone up from the previous day. When I talked to the doctor she was pretty positive that this means the the Stem Cells have started to take ahold of the bone marrow and that's why they increased. We were told that it wouldn't be until around May 1st till we started to see this, so this is a GREAT thing. Although we will know more tomorrow when we get his counts back to see if they are "still" increasing or what they are doing. Hunter had to get another unit of blood today because his heart rate was a little high and this could be because of his low red blood cells. He also had to start a treatments for his mouth and throat soars. This is done by a nurse that comes in 4x's a day and does a special treatment to help heal these area's quicker. He got 3 treatments today and said that it really does make a difference. There are so MANY things that seem to happen or come up in the coarse of a day. Little things that aren't a big deal and yet little things that turn into a big deal. Day in a day out I watch Hunter go through what he does and there is one thing I know for sure and that is he is ONE AMAZING YOUNG MAN....

Thank you for ALL Blessing us with your friendship, love and support..

The Herrick Family

TWO Week Mark..

Today was a little rough for Hunter all the way around. He has some mouth sores, throat soars which hurt when he swallows pills etc, VERY anxious, and all around just not feeling too well. He is still not eating, and his stomach is bothering him most of the time. We did manage to get through the day without having a nose bleed which was a very positive thing! He did not need blood transfusion from his nose bleed last night either. His counts are low, and the doctors say that a fever could occur, so they are keeping a close eye on that. No fever today so far and we are praying for a good night...

These past two week have been full of ups, downs and many different emotions but we have run across some amazing doctors, nurses, pca's and all around people. Everyone here is amazing and there here to help in any way that they can, if its coming to the room and playing cards, teaching Hunter how to play the Ukulel (music lessons) or simply just talking to different people to make the time pass. The time is long, but this hospital is truly amazing and tries to make the experience as pleasant as it possibly can. There are always people who touch your life more than they'll ever know...

Thank YOU to ALL of the INDIVIDUALS who have come into our lives and blessed us in one way or another...
Love and Prayers,
The Herrick Family

Saturday the 24th..

Hunter wasn't feeling that great today and did end up getting a blood transfusion due to his bloody nose that he got last night. He was up almost most of the night not feeling to great, which left him not feeling that get today either. They started him on TPN last night also which is basically liquid nutrients and fats. He is basically not eating and when he does it doesn't stay there too long. The idea of eating sounds good to him but not the foods that he is able to eat, but even if he was able to eat what he wanted to it wouldn't be a good idea because he is not keeping things down.

Unfortunately he had yet another bloody nose tonight. It lasted well over an hour and again had to get a unit of platelets. The main problem was that the blood wouldn't clot to stop. We will see how his Red Blood Counts are tomorrow to see if he needs another blood transfusion. Hunter's counts are going down each day and this shouldn't be any different tomorrow or the up coming days. We just have to wait for the Stem Cells to kick in. This is and will be the hardest part for him...

Thank you for all of your continued thoughts and prayers....
The Herrick Family

Friday the 23rd..

Hunter had a pretty good day today. He was able to eat, although his diet is pretty limited due to low counts. Hunter had another extremely bad bloody nose tonight around 9:30 p.m. lasting for a little over an hour. They were finally able to get it to stop although he lost a lot of blood. He had to have a platelet transfusion tonight due to the fact that his blood wouldn't clot. It will be interesting to see if he will need a blood transfusion tomorrow as well. They draw blood each day at 4 a.m.. His counts are continuing to drop each day as we expected.

Thank You Again For All the Continued Support..

The Herrick Family

Thursday, April 22nd..Cont..

After Hunter had a rough morning/mid afternoon it turned around for the better. He was able to eat a little and keep it down. He would eat small portions of things throughout the day. This was such a great thing to see after watching him get so extremely sick the day before. I'm sure that the 2 units of blood and 1 unit of platelets helped but it was great to see. His counts are going down, but they are treating him so wonderful here. They are truly on everything as it happens which is comforting for his mommy to see. Tonight and tomorrow is a new day and I'll keep everyone posted if there is any change.

We are so blessed to have so many people that care not only about Hunter but our entire FAMILY...

OUR Love and Prayers to All..
The Herrick Family

Rough One Again..

Vomiting continued till late last night. Nurses had to wake him a lot because his blood pressure was too low. Blood transfusion at 4am (2 units), and Hunter blew his nose at around 10 am and it began to bleed and would not stop. They had to give him platelets at 12:30 to help with clotting but still has packing in his nose as of 1:30 pm. They are going to take packing out when platelets are done. When that is done he wants to try to eat a bagel and praying it wont come back up.

Thanks for all the well wishes and prayers..

The Herrick Family

Day By Day

Today seemed to be a tougher day for Hunter. His appetite is decreasing, he seemed to get a lot sicker and just over all was not feeling that great. I'm not sure if this is the start of the down fall or just a bad day for him? As we have done from the beginning we will take it day by day, hour by hour and even minute by minute as we have no choice. Things can and have changed that quickly. So, tomorrow is a new day and we will see how he is feeling then and how his night goes.

Love to All, and THANK YOU for all of your continued support, love and prayers.

The Herrick Family

Seven Days of Chemo and Stem Cells COMPLETE..

Hunters seven days of chemo ended on Sunday. He had nausea and vomiting thru the entire time of the Chemo. There were times of ups and downs during those seven days. This was something that they were expecting and warned us about. Monday was a day of rest and he felt a little better and was able to eat the dinner that Joe made for him. He had crab cakes which is one of his favorites..

Stem cell infusion started today and is over. The whole procedure took about 15 to 20 minutes. He said it was a really weird feeling and his stomach was feeling a little odd. Hunter is feeling better now and they will keep a close eye on him all day till he goes to sleep. He did wake up with a stuffed up nose and his throat was hurting a little so we are hoping and praying that doesn't turn into anything. His counts are going down each and everyday, as they should. We then hope to see his stem cells kick in and bring them back up. We are hoping and praying that he will be able to go through this with out much of a fever or any other complications that could arise. We will keep you posted as the days pass..

Thank You for the continued Prayers and Thoughts,

The Herrick family.

Five Days Into City Of Hope

Hunter is ending his fifth day of his journey. He has now had two of his three Chemo's and has been doing pretty well. He has had his ups and downs and there has been times when he hasn't been feeling too well but that's what they expected. He will start his third Chemo on Saturday and that will be for two days. On Tuesday he will begin his stem cell infusion if all goes as planned.

Thank you to all the visitors who have come to see Hunter. It really breaks up his day and helps take his mind off of things.

Thank you again for all of the love, support and prayers.

The Herrick Family

City of Hope Stem Cell/ Bone Marrow transplant

Hunter checked into City of Hope last night and began chemo this morning at 6am. This is a five day course of chemo that is extremely tough and will completely destroy his bone marrow. He has never had any of these chemos and we don't know how he will react to them. They will do six blood draws every half hour and fly them to a special lab in Virginia and have the results back before tomorrow and will adjust the doses if needed. Day eight he will rest and day nine he will be given his stem cells that were harvested back in November. Then we wait and watch for his stem cell to re-enter his bone and create a whole new bone marrow, approximately on May 1st we hope to see the first blood cells being created by the new marrow. He will have many blood and platelet transfusions to keep him going. It will take a couple weeks for his counts to recover and they believe he will be released after 30 days. That is what we are hoping for although it could be up to 45 days.

He can have visitors over 18 years old for this week, no one sick may visit and mask and gloves must be worn. After a week or so no one may visit until his count recover some where after the May 1st. However, Jeanna may get visitors in the family area during that time.

More update to come and hope you can visit him soon.

Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers,

The Herricks

HAPPY Easter..

Happy Easter to all of our friends and family. We hope that it brings you laughter, love and simple memories that will last a lifetime.

We had our last test today, yes on Easter Sunday. It was a bone scan so it was a long one, but Hunter is finally done with all of his tests and scans. We have a doctors appointment on Monday and then meet with City of Hope on Thursday. We are praying that all tests come out in "all" the ways that they should so that Hunter can stay on schedule and go for his Stem Cell Replacement on Sunday. We will keep everyone updated as the week progresses...

Love and Prayers To All,
The Herrick Family

A New Week Begins..

As the new week begins we are starting testing for City of Hope. We have a lot of tests scheduled this week, some included are CT Scan, Bone Scan, Bone Age Test, Blood Work, MRI, Sinus Test, Dentist, and many more appointments. They need to make sure that all of Hunter is functioning well and is in the best possible condition that he can be in before he begins this tough fight. We are PRAYING that all tests come back GREAT and that Hunters health stays on the upside so that we can move on to the next phase of his treatment. We have had to put this off a couple times now due to his illnesses but are praying that this time will be a go. We know that it's going to be a long and tough treatment but he wants it over with so that he can move on to the next and hopefully soon see some light at the end of that tunnel.

Hunter has been working had with his home schooling, trying to get ahead so that when he does go into the City of Hope he won't be so far behind when he gets out. He has been doing an amazing job at keeping up and staying focussed. His goal is to be ready for his senior year, graduate, and go to a great college to hopefully be a doctor of some kind. We will see if that dream changes at all but as for now...we hold onto each and every dream...

Thank you again for ALL of your LOVE, SUPPORT and PRAYERS,
The Herrick Family

First Week HOME..

Hunter's first week home started off a little rough for everyone! Hunter had his normal doctor's appointment on Monday and when he went to this they felt something on the outside of his scar. They really weren't sure what it was but they knew that it was swollen and that it wasn't there before he had gotten sick this last time with pneumonia. The next step would be to take an MRI to get a better look at it and see what it was. They scheduled an MRI for first thing on Tuesday morning. Tuesday afternoon we received a call from the doctor and she told us that there was "something" there but she really wasn't sure what it was? She knows that it was bigger from the previous MRI that was taken in January. The problem was that Hunter had such a MAJOR surgery on his back to remove the first tumor that it still isn't fully healed. This made it hard for her to know exactly what it was. Our biggest fear was that a new tumor was growing. She wanted Hunter to do a PET scan the following morning to get a better look so that she can see exactly what was going on. So, Wednesday morning Hunter went in for his PET scan and needless to say WE didn't sleep much, if any. On Wednesday afternoon we received a call from the doctor and she told us that the area is clean..THANK YOU GOD. What this means is that the area did not light up, she knew that certain areas would light up due to the surgery but the "area of concern" was not lighting up. Most importantly..it wasn't a new tumor!!! She believes that it could be muscle coming back together, veins or something to that sort due the extensive surgery he had at the end of December. There were no words that could express the weight that was lifted when we received that phone call. This time we cried for joy!! We took Hunter out to celebrate that night and the rest of the week has been great! Hunter is getting stronger and feeling better. His counts are continuing to go in the right direction and he is starting to eat great!

We will have a Doctor's appointment this week, but as of now we are scheduled to start City of Hope (Stem Cell Replacement) on April 11th. We will keep you updated as things progress.

THANK you for all of your LOVE, SUPPORT and PRAYERS,
The Herrick Family

Hunter is HOME!

Hunter came home Thursday at around 3pm and is very happy to be out. He is taking medication for pneumonia and has lost a fair amount of weight and must put it back on before the stem cell rescue can began. He is still a little weak but, went to visit friends today and enjoy the sun on his face.
Thanks again for all the good thoughts and prayers,
The Herricks

Back to Anaheim

Hunter was transported last night at about 10pm to Kaiser on Lakeview in Anaheim Hills. Eating more and recovering. Please put the word out and I'm sure he would love some visitors. Not sure of when they'll let him out but we hope its soon.

Hungry!

Hunter finally ask and ate food yesterday without one of us force feeding him. His blood counts are starting to rise slowly and should help to get him out of the ICU. Hunter walked around the ICU for a couple minutes and is starting to cough up some of the mucus in his lungs. City of Hope - Stem Cell transplant has been delayed as a result of the illness 2 - 3 weeks.

Thanks for all the prayers and good thoughts,

The Herricks

Fever Broke

Hunter broke his high fever early Saturday Morning! Its been around 99.7 since. He sat up in a chair, for an hour, for the first time in over a week. He is still very weak although his counts have started to come up a little. All good news! Still waiting for test and counts to climb higher. Best case is 1-2 more days in ICU and 4-5 in regular hospital room.

Friday Scope

Bronchoscope found some blood in his lungs most likely from his platelets being so low. Lung tissue looked healthy and samples were taken and sent to the lab. Fever was still a problem starting the day with 105.8 and staying most of the day at 103.5ish. He did get cleaned up and it seemed to wake him a little and he ate a small amount of applesauce and broth. He was given several units of blood, platelets, plasma and it seemed to help the blood pressure. Cool wet towels helped bring his fever down some and made him more comfortable.

Thanks for all the support,
The Herricks

Bronchoscopy 10:30 am

Friday at 10:30 am doctors will preform Bronchoscopy procedure to look in the lung through a thin camera and remove some flem/disease and test it to find the best way to treat Hunter. The sample will then need to be grown in the lab for 48 hours to determine what it is and what meds to use.
Also, Hunter has not eaten for 7 days so the are starting nutrition through his central line at about 2am. He has bouts of nausea and a lack of appetite have been tough and made him weak.
His bone marrow is starting to work as we can see some white blood cells slowly beginning to show in his counts. Hopefully this will soon began to help him fight this off.

Part Two

Doctor talk with us regarding Hunter lack of progress. A lung specialist will come in today and discuss operation in which Hunter will be put under and a scope will be inserted in to his lungs and a sample of the fluid will be taken then sent to lab to find out what can be done to more directly treat him. He was started on Tamaflu yesterday an antiviral for H1N1 and other Flu. It is believed his pneumonia is viral but, tough to say if other infections will or will not start because of him low immune system. The blood in his flem my be due to his low platelet counts but we will know more later.

Fever won't go away

Yesterday brought more of the same and up most of the night with 103 fever. Hunter has an hour or two where he seems to be ok then the fever jumps to 103 and Blood Pressure drops. Doctors started some antiviral meds and he was able to cough up a small amount of flem which appeared to have blood present. It was sent to the lab and we will see what that brings. Blood and platelets transfusion today, thanks to those of you have donated that to him. Wish I had answers for you but all I have is more questions for the doctors.

Doctor visit

CT scan yesterday and we were able to see the scan as the doctor showed us fluid in both lungs. Blood cultures are coming back negative for infections in the blood, so looks like pneumonia is what is causing the problems. Medications will take care of bacterial or fungal infections. However, if it is viral it will have to run its course, problem is his white blood cells, used to fight such infections, are at zero because of his last chemo. His count won't start to rise till probably Friday.

His fever is lower at times with tylenol (99 - 101) and his blood pressure is still fluctuates from 83/30 to 120/70. So prayers for a normal temp and higher BP will be appreciated.

Hoping its not viral and the meds do there job, as soon as he can stabilize his vitals he can leave the ICU and be moved to normal room and then home.

He seems to be feeling a little better over all. I am trying to update this daily for everyone, so if you can pass this blog address along it will help keep people informed.

Post a comment here and I will share it with Hunter.


Thanks for all the prayers
The Herricks

New Day

Hunter is still running a fever of 103 can't seem to shake it. Doctor are doing a CT Scan today to get a good look at his lungs. They are thinking it's pneumonia of some kind but waiting for blood cultures to rule out infection in his central line or fungal infection. Still on strong antibiotics- must be 10 IV bags hanging now. He had a rough night last night cough kept him up most of the night. He was able to keep down some clear liquids and jello yesterday afternoon and had some appetite, he had not eaten since Friday night. Seems to be more coherent yesterday and talked with us some at times.

Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers.

Thanks

First we wanted to say THANK YOU TO EVERYONE for the fundraiser on Saturday! It was great to see everyone and can't thank Lisa Sharp, Mom Marie and the whole family and Shelly Bailey for putting it on. Joe and Hunter wished they could attend.

That brings us to the update. Hunter is very sick. He entered the Kaiser hospital in Anaheim, Saturday night and was air lifted to Kaiser Sunset in LA. He is in the ICU with a high fever and very low blood pressure. He is on an array of antibiotics till all the lab work comes back tonight. Because he just finished chemo his count are very low which adds to the problem of fighting this off. Please pray for his recovery and we will do are best to update more and make a longer post on the Saturdays fundraiser.

Home From Last ICE Chemo..

We got home on Tuesday night from out last ICE Chemo treatment at Kaiser. He had a few ups and downs durning his treatment but we are now home and that's behind him. He did catch a cold while he was there which I'm sure didn't help. He doesn't have anymore "planned" stays at the Kaiser Hospital unless something comes up in the future. When you know you are saying good-bye to some of the people who have truly made such an impact in your life and your son's life it's one of those bitter/sweet things. We are happy to be done with that phase in his treatment but we have made some amazing friends in the nurses and doctors there. There is no way to THANK them for all the love, support and care that they have shown to Hunter and our family.

This treatment really seems to get the best of Hunter. His counts will be going down in the days ahead of him and he will be getting blood and platelet transfusions. He will also have to do a lot of tests before he goes into City of Hope, those will begin around March 8th. He is scheduled to go to City of Hope on the 28th of March. We will keep you posted as this gets closer.

THANK YOU for all of your,
LOVE, SUPPORT, AND PRAYERS..
The Herrick Family

CHEMO Time...

Hunter is going in for his last round of ICE Chemo Treatment. This will be a six day treatment at Kaiser. This ICE treatment really kicks Hunters butt and I'm sure that he will need many blood and platelet transfusions when this is over. When this treatment is over Hunter will begin many tests and procedures to begin his stem cell replacement. This process will take about two to three weeks and then he will begin his treatment at City of Hope. We are assuming it will be somewhere around the middle to end of March. The stem cell replacement will be about 30 to 45 days. Hunter will undergo an aggressive round of Chemo treatment and when the time is right they will begin replacing his stem cells. He will be in an isolated room, and he will not be able to have visitors for at least the first three weeks. When he is able to have visitors they will have to be 18 years old. This will be a long journey for Hunter but we believe with all of our hearts that he will be stronger when he comes to the end of this road.

As long as Hunter's counts are good and nothing comes up, he will be able to be at the Dance Fundraiser on Saturday the 27th...

Love and Prayers to ALL..
The Herrick Family

Home SWEET Home..

We are home from the hospital, and it couldn't be a minute too soon. It was a longggg week filled with many blood, and platelet transfusions, along with some unplanned events that were not too much fun for Hunter. Needless to say he is extremely glad to be home! The doctors want to keep an eye on his infection and make sure that his counts continue to rise on his own and then they will decide on when Chemo will take place. We are praying for possible admit on Thursday..which will let him out in time to attend the fundraiser that so many are working so hard on..

Thank you for ALL of your LOVE and SUPPORT..
The Herrick Family

Back In The Hospital..

Hunter had to go back into the hospital today due to LOW LOW counts that caused an infection. He has had four blood and three platelet transfusions since his last Chemo treatment and still needing more!! His doctors wanted to get IV Antibiotics into him as well as around the clock care. They want to make sure to keep a close eye on his counts and they felt this was the best way to do everything that needed to be done for him. The hospital is the LAST place that Hunter wants to be at these days, the days and nights are long and each day seems to be as the last. We are praying for a quick recovery, although the next Chemo Treatment is soon to follow....

Our Continued LOVE and Appreciation to ALL....
The Herrick Family

HOME From CHEMO!

We are "finally" home from Hunter's third round of Chemo. This round was an extremely tough one for Hunter, and he is VERY HAPPY to be home. The weeks ahead of us will be filled with blood and platelet transfusions along with doctor appointments. He is scheduled to go back into Chemo around the 12th of February, BUT it will all depend on his counts and "IF" he is ready. It could be delayed by a couple of days until his body will be ready for it again. Then he will have his LAST SIX day round of Chemo at Kaiser before he begins his Stem Cell Replacement at City of Hope.

Thank you for ALL of your LOVE, SUPPORT and PRAYERS,
The Herrick Family

CHEMO Begins Again...

Hunter is back in the hospital beginning Chemo again. He will be there for six days (which means he will get out late Wednesday night) and remain to get the ICE Chemo. There were many discussions back and forth from Hunter's doctors at Kaiser and his City Of Hope doctors and they decided that the ICE Chemo would be the best Chemo for him to remain on with a few minor adjustments. He will be receiving 2 rounds of Chemo before he begins his lengthly stay at City of Hope for his Stem Cell replacement and Chemo.

Hunter's back has healed well and just got the O.K. to go without dressing on it. Hunter's stay at the hospital can get boring as it's a long stay, visitors are always welcome, especially since it takes his mind off of what's taking place.

As always THANK YOU for all of your love, continued support and prayers.

THE HERRICK FAMILY

HOME From Surgery!

We are FINALLY home from a week long stay in the hospital. Hunter is TRULY AMAZING and is getting stronger and stronger everyday. It will take 2 to 3 weeks before he will be able to do a lot of the simple things that we all take for granted, like opening or closing a door, lifting his arms, or anything that has to do with moving too much, too sudden or too quickly. Each day he is able to move a little more and a little better. The surgeons and the plastic surgeons were extremely happy with the surgery and out come of the skin graph. We are still waiting for the results to come in from the pathologists. Hopefully that will be in soon. We want to THANK everyone for all of their love, support and PRAYERS. We are truly blessed to have so many wonderful people in our lives.....

Love,
The Herrick Family