Mon. Sept. 5th

A year ago today, 14 yr old B+ Hero Noxah Palomo jumped out of an airplane to check an item off his “bucket list”.  As I’ve said before, a “bucket list” is a cute, funny thing when made into a movie about older guys, but there’s nothing funny about a 14 year old having a “bucket list”.  Noxah died a month after his jump from AML (leukemia).

Yesterday, to commemorate Noxah’s jump, I had the privilege of joining Noxah’s parents, his transplant doctor (Andy Kolb), and ten other family members and friends in re-creating the jump.  It was my first jump and truly an incredible experience.  To think that you are willingly jumping out of a plane at 2 1/2 miles above the ground is insane.  Here’s to you, Noxah.  (please see the link below for a short video of my ‘trip’)

http://on.fb.me/oEhQ5c

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Three years ago today, my friend and brother-in-law, Dan, left this world after a brave 6 month battle with leukemia.  Dan had beaten lymphoma four years earlier, but one of the chemo drugs they gave him caused a secondary cancer!  Believe it or not, this is not uncommon and doctors are not terribly surprised when this happens.  That should tell you something about the sophistication – or lack thereof- of chemotherapy.  We MUST develop smarter and gentler treatment protocols for kids and adults.

Just like my Mom, who was buried in a “B+ Hero” shirt, Dan epitomized the B+ spirit.  Dan suffered through a brutal treatment regimen and whenever I asked him how he was doing, he always said “Can’t Complain”!  Unbelievable!  He ALWAYS put his family first.  Dan, it was my honor to know you in this world and I look forward to re-uniting with you someday to experience your great attitude.  Dan, we’re thinking of you, Mary, Nora, and Luisa, today and always!  B+

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Make it a great week.

Live Like Andrew

B+

Proud to be,

Ali & Andrew’s Dad

www.caringbridge.org/visit/andrewmcdonough

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Thurs. Sept. 8th

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Sat. Sept. 3rd — HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANDREW!!!