UPDATE: September 24, 2010

Matthew was able to receive a stem cell transplant 2 weeks ago. He is doing very well handling the very difficult recovery. Please keep the family in your prayers.

MATTHEW'S STORY

Matthew Furibondo was your typical, healthy, 21-month-old boy; constantly on the move, curious, and fun loving. However, Matthew’s life forever changed on December 4, 2009, when, after weeks of enduring unexplained symptoms, his parents’ worst nightmare was confirmed. Matthew was suffering from AML (acute myeloid leukemia), a very fast growing form of Leukemia.

A diagnosis of AML required Matthew to immediately undergo 10 days of chemotherapy treatments – sometimes three times a day. His treatment schedule was aggressive, because cancers classified as acute get worse quickly if they are not treated. Following his initial 10-days of chemotherapy and a month at home to recover, Matthew required another eight days of chemotherapy treatments. He then received a final five days of chemotherapy treatments.  In between his treatments, Matthew had several trips to the emergency room with fevers, viruses and pain.

In May, Matthew's bone marrow biopsy revealed zero cancer cells.  It was the best news they could have hoped for.  Matthew was feeling great, running around and finally able to enjoy time at home with his parents and his 5 year old sister, Claire.

Just 23 days later, Matthew's parents received terrible news.  The cancer was back, and had spread to his brain.  He has been given additional chemotherapy and needs to get into remission so he can get a stem cell transplant.  This will be an extremely difficult fight.

FINANCIAL BURDEN

During this extensive treatment schedule at Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL, a family member is required to be at Matthew’s beside 24x7. The travel and medical costs associated with treating AML are astronomical – even with proper insurance coverage. Matthew’s parents want to do everything they can to make sure that he beats this terrible cancer. As a result, they have also elected to utilize a trial drug, not yet approved by the FDA, which means that insurance will not cover the cost of the treatment. The financial burden placed on Matthew’s family is heavy.  

TEAM MATTHEW ROCHESTER IS ASKING FOR YOUR HELP

I would like to raise $4,000 for Matthew. With your support, we know we can reach that goal. All donations are greatly appreciated. Matthew and the entire Furibondo family thank you for your support, prayers and generosity.