Down Syndrome & Leukemia

[Mary Lynn Kesler]

I am hoping more mother's of children with Down Syndrome or any type of syndrome join. Most survive but some like Sierra pass away. Children with Down Syndrome have a greater risk of getting Leukemia than a typical child. The treatments are more toxic to their system as well than that of a typical child so they have more hospital stays as well.

[Anissa Mayhew]

Mary Lynn, you may want to leave a message for Angela (Micah's mom). Micah has Downs and just finished treatment, he's a sweetie. But I think they're the only one right now with a sydrome.

[Angie Albonico]

I am terribly sorry for your loss. My son Micah has Downs and just finished his treatment for AML. It is such a scary thing. I have been told that yes, downs does increase their risk to develop Leukemia, but for some reason the downs is what helps them fight it. Micah did good in treatment considering how bad it could have been. Are you go to the CCC?

[Mary Lynn Kesler]

Hi,

I did see you one time at the CCC and wanted so bad to talk to you. I go now to the Bereavement Group at the CCC. Actually, I was told by Dr. Wynn that AML is a better Leukemia for a child with Downs to get than ALL. I'm not sure why but I guess because the treatment is shorter for AML than for ALL. I pray that Micah continues to do well. I hope to one day meet you and get to talk to you. I miss Sierra so much, it was a priviledge to be her mom. I was scared of taking care of a child with Downs and did not know what to expect but she is amazing and made our lives so much fuller and happier. We miss her so much. A big part of me wants to adopt a child with Downs but at the same time I am afraid of the Leukemia risk and just don't want to have to go through that again.

[Angie Albonico]

You should have come up to me. I am always willing to make more friends! AML is a shorter time period but VERY strong chemo. I can't say one is really better than the other. Cancer sucks. Since you go to the bereavement group I guess you won't be going on Tues or Thurs? I plan to go on Tues if everything goes ok. I have a realtor coming out today at 2. I am going to try to list my house. I know the feeling about being scared. I was terrified to have a child with downs. But now.. OMGosh. He is SOOOOO wonderful. If God came to me and said, "Angie, I will take away the Down's if you want" I would say NO!!! You can have the health issues, but I love my son just the way he is. I wouldn't ever change him. I wish more people were blessed to get to spend time with children with Down Syndrome. I was so angry, but it's amazing how he is such a true blessing from God. I can't imagine not having my Micah.