Caring for Kerry...

The story about Kerry Magana came out this week in the Kansas City Hispanic News. Click the "Caring for Kerry" title to read the entire story as it appears in KCHN.

I ASK YOU PLEASE HELP ME GET THIS STORY OUT TO THE MEDIA. IF YOU KNOW ANYONE WHO MIGHT BE ABLE TO HELP PLEASE SEND THE ARTICLE OR BLOG TO THEM. I NEED THIS STORY TO BE SHARED. I NEED THOSE DECISION MAKERS IN HONDORUS TO KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE IN KANSAS CITY WHO CARE ABOUT THIS LITTLE GIRL. I NEED YOUR HELP SHARING THIS STORY.


Kerry Magaña is 15 years old and fighting for her life. She is battling leukemia. Her fight for life is taking its toll on her body and spirit leaving the once energetic teenager tired and wishing that her mother could be at her bedside as she faces her cancer treatments. Stress and anxiety rule Claudia Sabrera, Kerry’s mother. She struggles with the need to be in three places at once. As a single parent, she must be at work so that she can provide for the other two siblings in the family household. When she is not at work, she feels that she must be home with the other children. She can’t leave them alone. She has no family to help her care for them or Kerry. Sabrera has had to make hard choices lately. She has missed work to try to be at the hospital with Kerry. Now her work hours have been cutback. The family is in turmoil and struggling to make ends meet. Sabrera does not know where to turn. Kerry was diagnosed in 2006 with ALL Leukemia and was in critical need of a bone marrow transplant. Following treatment, Kerry’s leukemia went into remission. While trying to find a bone marrow donor, she had a relapse in December 2007 and the family faced a life or death situation. Her daughter battled the disease and it appeared that the treatment had worked. While she was in remission in February of this year, Kerry worked hard to educate the Latino community about the importance of Hispanics registering as bone marrow donors. She attended the three hour bone marrow drive held last February at Bales Baptist Church in the northeast area of the city. Her future looked bright when a bone marrow donor was identified, but before the transplant could take place, her cancer returned. She is currently recuperating from her latest bouts of treatment. She is scheduled for a transplant on August 11. The cancer is beginning to take its toll on the young teenager. She is tired and disheartened. Previously, the spirited teenager was a beacon of hope and high spirits, spending time in the hospital visiting other children in the cancer ward. She would talk to the parents and the children about losing their hair from the cancer treatments; she would introduce the children to members of the hospital staff and try to make both the parents and children at ease while they were going through their treatments just as she was. Michael Quijas met Kerry while his own 15-year-old daughter was in Children’s Mercy hospital diagnosed with leukemia. “We would stay weeks at a time at Children’s Mercy on the pediatric cancer floor. Kerry came into the room and she talked to my daughter. At the time Kerry had no hair and my daughter was beginning to lose her hair. She sat down, they talked, and she showed us what it was to wear a wig. … She helped my daughter out and her visits with us and with the other children and families was priceless.”
While at Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kerry has a social worker and a Child Life Specialist assigned to her. “Their job is to reduce the stress and anxiety that accompany the hospitalization and other aspects of health care here at the Hospital,” said Jessica Salazar, Manager of Media Relations at Children’s Mercy. “They will meet with the child and help them and guide them through what they are dealing with as a patient. They will prepare the child for medical experiences, they advocate for patient and family rights and they normalize the environment
for the patients.” Even though Sabrera knows that Kerry has hospital staff with her as she goes through her medical treatments, it tears at her heart knowing that she cannot be there to comfort her and reassure her that everything will be fine. “This is difficult for me and for her. She is preoccupied with getting ready for her operation and I am preoccupied with worrying that she is taking her pills. I know that her sickness makes her very tired to where she just wants to lay there and sleep and sleep. I want to be the person that is there to make sure that she takes her pill, make something for her to eat and give her food.” At the same time, she is aware of the needs of her other children. “It is something I cannot control. I cannot be guarding the kids for 24 hours. I can’t break myself into pieces to be everywhere. … I have not lost my faith but this is very hard, to get out of work, come home to cook and take care of the kids and then go to the
hospital it is difficult. … I want things to be stabilized.” As a parent, Quijas understands what Abrera is experiencing emotionally and knows how important the familial touch is. “Just to have
that family member there to rub her back when the child is getting sick, to administer the
medicine or to just make sure they are comfortable while they are battling this. I think that everyone wants a little bit of comfort whether you are an adult or a child, there is something about having someone there with you,” he said. “She wants to be there but she has two other mouths to feed and she has to keep a roof over their heads. I saw Claudia on one of the treatment days for Kerry at the hospital and she told me, ‘I need my mom’ I need someone to help me,” added Quijas. Sabrera has tried to bring her mother from Honduras to the United States. She has sent money to her mother, sent papers from the hospital proving the gravity of the situation. Sabrera has found the situation untenable. Her mother must apply for the visa in the Honduran capital, Tegucigalpa, a distance of five to six hours. “She has to leave for a whole day to be there early in the morning for the visit. Then they turned her down without saying why.” Sabrera explained that her mother would have to apply again and pay the nonrefundable
application fee once again to get another hearing, which she fears will turn out the same. “She not only loses the money for the visa but also the travel cost because she lives so far away.”
Quijas has taken steps to see if he can get local and federal politicians involved in helping to bring the grandmother to the United States. He has contacted Congressman Emanuel Cleaver and Julie Myers, assistant secretary of Homeland Security for U.S. Immigration and Customs enforcement (ICE), to see if they can help expedite the paperwork for the grandmother. “Since I have been in this campaign to help them, I have been told that this is not an emergency to bring the grandmother here,” explained Quijas. From where he stands, he cannot imagine a more critical situation. “Until you are there with your child, and it is hard enough being in the room with your child, to think about your child being there by themselves going through this kind of sickness, it is really about making your child comfortable, which contributes to the well being of that person,” added Quijas. “This visa is a necessity. Someone needs to be at the hospital for that little girl while she gets her treatment.”

Dr. Mount...

My family went to a party last night. The party was a Jewelry Party and it was hosted by a woman named Kaye Mount. Kaye was our home school teacher this last year. She was my daughter's teacher. Normally kids may have 6, 7, or 8 teachers during the day - we had one. We had Kaye Mount.

I write about Kaye tonight for a reason. Kaye Mount is such a special part of our family that I feel obligated to tell everyone. The friendship sort of symbolizes this past year. We had Kaye come in like all the other professionals. Kaye was just like all the other knocks at the door when this thing started. We were assigned a teacher, similiar to the specialists that were being assigned daily at that time. There was a job to be done and Kaye was given that job. We really didn't care if it - the teacher - was a he or a she. Tall or short. White or black. It was business. Kaylee needed a teacher to keep her on track. Kaye was given the job.

Looking back, it was one of those introductions that were like so many at that time. Our sickness was thick and the salutations polite and proper but insignificant. When you are in a fight for your child's life everything else doesn't really matter. I was on auto-pilot. Hey, how are you? Here's my kid now lets get this done!

Week after week past and we had our ups and downs but Kaye arrived at her usual. The relationship blossomed in rhythm with Kaylee's health. Before long that insignificant relationship became the cornerstone of our recovery. We had someone that felt our pain but was professional. Kaye kept Kaylee in the loop. Kaye's scheduled appointments at the Quijas household made Kaylee get up and about. This routine directly contributed to the health of my child. Although Kaye doesn't have her medical degree, she is a doctor in my eyes.


I'm writing about Kaye tonight because Kaylee and Tammie felt like they were part of Kaye's family yesterday. They arrived at the party and everyone knew who they were. They fit in with Kaye's family and friends like they had known them for years. That professional demeanor Kaye brought to the door that first day was just the thing we needed. It was right on cue with the whole sickness thing. As time went by that relationship progressed into something so much more than a pupil and the teacher. It grew into friendship that will always be. I thank you Kaye for being there. This situation we went through demanded that we have a professional. It just happens that our professional brought more to our doorstep than a degree. Kaye Mount was our teacher, is our friend, and a savior to this family. Thank you Kaye!

All Aboard...

A couple of months ago I gave a speech at CMSU for young entrepreneurs. I kept referring to my experience as a bus ride. You head out on your journey, your ride, and you have all sorts of people come along for the ride. Some people get off during the cruise and others stay on. There's some that matter more than others. But eventually everyone leaves.

If trying to make something out of nothing isn't hard enough, throw in emotional attachments that dissolve. It hurts. Well it has happened again. My right hand man, Ken, had to go. The direction my company has been going isn't or hasn't been right. I had to make a decision, a tough decision to go a different direction. It's like a relationship ending. The bus has pulled over and another passenger has to go.

Ken was such an important part of my business and important part of my family. He made sure that my business kept running while my daughter fought her sickness. He made it to appointments when I wasn't able to. He was the boss and I'm thankful. Unfortunately things run their course and change has to be made. My dreams are exactly that, my dreams. I have suffered for this dream, sacrificed for this dream, and have committed myself to this dream. I have to steer the course.

So I guess what I'm saying is that life is like a bus. People come and people go. Some stay longer then others but the majority all leave sooner or later. Everyone has a journey, or a road to take. The bottom line is that this is my bus - my life - and it has to make it down the road. The tires have to be aired, the engine has to be oiled, and the vehicle has to be fueled. Your destination is yours and you have to get to where you need to be internally, spiritually, and physically. I can not afford to get too attached to any outside influences or people that might slow me. I have to keep on keeping on. I enjoy company and welcome companionship but eventually everyone disappears. The one constant is me, my bus, and my map.

I want to thank everyone who has sent me an email recently. I enjoy the reading emails from friends, and those from strangers as well. I try to respond to all of them in a quick time frame, but if it takes longer than usual I'm sorry. I will get to it.

I went swimming today and it felt great. Kaylee also took up the

Sweet 16...

It was Kaylee's birthday today. We started our celebration last night. Kaylee and four friends wanted to go to Chubby's on Broadway last night, or early this morning. I drove her and the girls down there around 12:30 am. We drove around, had breakfast, and sung songs until 3 am. It was fun. I'm a fun dad - I think.

Tonight we took 10 people to Buca di Pepo. It was a great dinner. If you've never been there you should go. We ate way to much. The night was fun and the day was special. I could not help but think how grateful I am to have my daughter. I've had a great 16 years with Kaylee. I look forward to another 50 years.

Well I'm going to sleep and I hope you have a nice weekend.

Fourth in line...

Have you ever noticed or witnessed someone taking their time to look good, smell good, or carry their self in the right way? My son for example takes more showers then anyone I know. They are quick but he loves to feel good. Christian also wears Cologne. He loves to smell good. He likes body spray. His trophy's are in order as is everything in his room. I feel so great as a father to watch him do all he can to feel and look good. I say this because it's Christian and I love him. If he liked to wade in the mud and smell a little stinky then that would be fine too. It just happens to be the opposite.

I remember my grandpa always looking really sharp. He wore a hat and always had a suit or tie on. He always looked so nice and proper. As a man today I appreciate people who have a certain style. I look at these people, those I know and some I don't, but always wonder where their sense of style came from. Was it their grandpa? Was it their dad? Does that impression rub off? Maybe someone made a decision as a child not to be like those he grew up around? Maybe someone was around smelly people as a youngster and decided to be the total opposite as an adult.

I for example made a decision that I would be active in my kid's lives. I strive to be a good father. I have faults and shortcomings but my life is my children. My father made a decision when I was a baby, he made a decision even before I was born, that his time and his life was more important then the family's. He decided that it was more important that he eat before his children. He chose to spend our last dollar on his needs. He made decisions that benefited him, not us. I've made the choice that I'm fourth in line when it comes to my family. There's three others in front of me.

I love my mother and I wonder if she ever watched in the background as I put Cologne on. When I feathered my hair did she smile. Did she cry when she noticed that I was equipped with a kind heart. Maybe my focus wasn't a clean and spotless room but maybe it was my kindness that demanded attention. Who knows.

Rumor has it that my sharp dressed grandpa worried that I was too caring. He warned my mother she should watch out for me because he thought that I might get hurt later on in life. Because I loved too much. How much of that is true I'm not sure. But maybe it was true and maybe he made that comment because he observed something special in me as I notice those special things in Christian, my son. Maybe my mom made a man that does care, who does notice good smells and certain styles, and occasionally cries from sadness and from happiness. Maybe my mom showed so much love to me and my sisters that I followed her lead. What ever the case may be, I love life, I love my family, and I just love to love.

True...

I love to write. Tonight I had planned to watch some DVD's from BlockBuster but got distracted when I started writing and couldn't stop. I find comfort when I express myself with words. I never scored a high grade in English as a kid, but feel I express myself somewhat good with a keyboard or pen. Who needs to score good grades in English when you start blogging? might do find it as a great escape as I get older. ather funny that I find such relief in putting words down. I love to read my entries. I cannot tell you how great it is to document your day. I go back and read about me and my family and it is awesome. I memorialize the moment. Maybe I'm no Edgar, Walt, or S.E. but I enjoy my journal.

So many of the cancer parents tell me they wish they would've documented their story. I'm sure most wouldn't broadcast them, but I did and I'm owning up to it. I made new friends from it, rekindled old friends from it, and shared the pain of a parent. Hopefully no one will ever have to feel it but if you do, you should know that I made it and you would too. Sickness sucks you down but it's what you do with it that matters. You can swim or sink. I have chosen to stick and move, jab and undercut this cancer. If it had an eye I'd poke it!

Well it is getting late here in the Quijas Household and I must go. But before I do I want to share a quick story. I have been stressed out lately. I go from battling this thing with Kaylee, not caring about the rest of the world to being completely absorbed with things outside my household. This morning I had to go to Granfalloon North to fix some issues that have been weighing InAd TV down. Some upgrades to the system and software. I love to go on service calls because I don't have to focus on anything but that. I get to work on the task at hand and everything else is minor. Well I get on the road and I start stressing. Is the owner mad about this? Did I do this right? Should I do this? Did I do this? Could I do.... It is absolutely ridiculous.

So I'm getting myself worked up as I take the 45 minute ride up north. I really shouldn't let anything bother me because my daughter is feeling great. She had 7 friends over last night and she's happy. So today should be a happy day. My mind is crazy. I'm happy for my kid but stressing out over things that aren't really that important. Back and forth. I get to Granfalloon and the owner walks in. Nancy the owner says "How's your daughter doing?" I started to cry. Yes - it seemed like I had started to turn over a new leaf and was leaving the crying thing behind me but old habits are hard to break.

I looked her in the eye and said "We are doing great!" We are. The night was so beautiful because Kay was being a kid with all her friends and it hit me that all my thoughts about this and that are insignificant. I explained to Nancy that it is such a roller coaster. Worrying about health then spinning on a dime and worrying about my business. Nancy looks at me and says "All this stuff, all this day time filler stuff, is insignificant!" She said, "this building, this job you're doing will be here in 2, 3, or 4 weeks from now. So why sweat it."

True. Why worry about things that aren't hurting me or my family. Sure I might need to address a few things but I'm not hurting anyone and no one is hurting us. Not sickness, not anyone or anything. So I should be grateful. But sometimes I feel guilty if I don't stress. I feel like I should have some sense of urgency today. My grief stage is over and I should "Cowboy Up" and get busy with this problem here or there. But the truth is, I'm not breaking any laws and I'm not hurting anyone. I'm just a guy trying to make an honest living.

So I need to accept that there's always going to be something that doesn't get done. There's always going to be something I could have done better. But as long as I get up every day and work to do better then I will never lose. True!

To my old friends...

I want to tell everyone about a few messages I've received lately. One was from Karin Marrow Livella. I went to school with Karin at St.Agnes. Karin surprised me with an email yesterday. Thank you Karin. I feel honored you would remember me! I was happy to hear from you and the family looks awesome. It has been so long. And you thought I forgot about our Mr. Dalton, Mr. Landers, and Sister Marcella days! No way.

This year has brought about so many people from my past. It is so nice to hear from people from so long ago. It means a lot to me when people take the time to write, place a call, or send a message. I think it's awesome when you think about your memory of someone. I remember everyone and I have memories of anyone that I came across in my youth. I often wonder if I made an impression. Does anyone remember me? So when I get a message it makes me feel good.

I also received a message from Kent Fossland yesterday, another classmate who I hadn't heard from in years. He told me his experience with cancer and I thank you Mr.Fossland. I love to hear other stories about sadness and sickness. That might sound bad but it makes you respect other people and their journey. They say with pain comes growth. I wouldn't wish it on anyone but this experience has made me appreciate my life and those around me more then ever.

One last blast from the past. Nanci Noble. Nanci is the mother of Jill Sandin, well it's Jill Green now, but it was Jill Sandin. Jill was a girl I liked my freshman year in high school. We attended JC Harmon High together. We were both new to this big school and some how made a connection. My grade school was Rosedale and hers was Argentine. We were both new to high school and out to make new friends when we met. Jill was my first date I ever had. We went to a school dance together and I remember being so nervous. I don't recall all the details but I do remember eating with Jill and her mother. It was out of the ordinary for me to go anywhere with a girl so the memory is still vivid. Jill was a cheerleader and I remember thinking how lucky I was to go with her. Every one liked Jill but she was my date. Her mother Nanci sent me such a nice email about a month ago and it made me feel great. First, that she would remember me. Second, that she would take the time to wish my beautiful daughter best wishes. Sometimes you think you go unnoticed but every once in awhile you make an impression. Maybe I made one back then, who knows, but it was Nanci that made one in June 2008. I haven't ran into Jill in years but I know she's doing great and married a great guy from our neighborhood.

I'm watching my sons baseball game and better get back to it but I thought I'd drop a line. If we haven't talked in awhile send me an email. If you have something good or bad to say I'd like to hear it. My email is michael@inadtv.com and once again I want to say thanks to Karin,Kent, Nanci and everyone who has sent encouraging words!
MQ

Hopefully you'll never know...

Have you ever been sick? Have you ever had a family member sick? Have you ever had your child sick? Hopefully not, but chances are you've had to fight some sort of sickness in your life. The thing about sickness is it's usually associated with the the flu, the cold, the stomache ache. The next level generally hits a family member. The relative who comes down with something that gets the whole family talking. The Uncle in Fresno with the stroke, the Grandma with a tumor, or your Mother with breast cancer. All of these scenerios are devastating but come second to the day you have a doctor tell you that your child has cancer. Give me, my sister, my mom, or anyone I know those hurtful words "you have cancer" but please spare my kid!

In a perfect world we might never have to utter those words. But it's not a perfect world and we have to take each diagnosis but it does happen. My mother has went through cancer, my sister, and my uncle. you can never prepare for the words CANCER when it comes to your child.

One Year Ago Today...

I reprinted my first blog below. I published it on June 29, 2007. What a difference a year can make. I can't explain those first days. It was so surreal. I was confused and hurt. The doctors are convinced that it was delivered to me for a reason. I think they may be right. This word leukemia, this disease called cancer, has changed me. I'm humbled. I'm full of compassion and I look at every thing differently.

I now notice things that I once didn't. Today for example I noticed this man's hands at our baseball tournament. These paws were rough. They looked as if he had broken his fingers, smashed a few fingernails, and changed more then enough motor oil. (Bare with me for a moment because this is going somewhere.) As this man put his other hand on the bleacher I noticed his thumb was missing. Ouch! I then looked at his family. He had his wife, his daughter who was roughly Kay's age, and his son. This father had a t-shirt on with his son's uniform number on it. I watched him for a minute. This stranger was interacting with his kids. He was a good father from all appearences. I went back to his hands. These beaten digits were that way because he was providing a life for his family. He was working with his hands somewhere to pay tournament fees. He was aquiring arthritis for the fancy sunglasses his daughter was wearing, and for the flip flops his wife was sporting. I saw family when I saw his hands. This disease has made me look past the cosmetic appearence of a man and his tortured hands. It has made me admire a man for the hard work he has endured to provide for his family.

Please enjoy my retro writing and please consider helping me find a way of getting Kerry Magana's grandma here:


Almost 15….What really matters? A question that can produce so many different answers. I’m not sure what my answer would've been a week ago. To be honest, I really wanted to own a Bentley Continental GTC in the next year or so if I hit the lottery. A custom chopper. A lake home. I thought those things mattered. I thought status was important. But a week later I can tell you its health. A healthy child. A healthy child that you kiss goodnight as you tuck them into bed.My name is Michael Quijas and I am sitting next to my daughter as she fights for her life. Seven days ago my daughter was admitted to the University Hospital in Columbia, MO for symptoms of Leukemia. That was Thursday June 21, 2007. On Friday June 22, we were delivered the bad news that she did test positive for Leukemia and treatment had to start immediately.
The whole event was surreal and a week later it is still numbing. I am coping, crying, and questioning everything. Why? Why my little girl? What did she ever do in her short little life to deserve such a devastating diagnosis? The doctors & nurses tell me it’s a process that every parent goes through but I still have questions and anger.My first day, technically before the official results were in, I had hospital staff tell me how sorry they were. The doctors, nurses, & even the receptionist expressed condolences. I was confused. Why the hell are these people giving me sympathy? I didn’t want it, they could keep it.I have to do something theraputic while I sit here so I've decided to document my experience.June 24, 2007 11:43 p.m. - I am sitting in a hospital room at University Hospital in Columbia, MO.. Room 6-E44 to be exact. The time is 11:43 p.m. and I am fighting a battle with my daughter. This battle is against leukemia. This battle started three days ago on June 21, 2007. The news or I should I say diagnosis came in around 8:15 p.m. and it was like a hammer hitting me in the head.
I was at the hospital for a shot, pill, or Tylenol. Not the news that my baby had Leukemia. We wanted to spend an hour at the most getting some quick fix and head back to our baseball tournament. But life has has a way of throwing a curve ball.Kaylee Marie Quijas was born on July 12, 1992. I’d like to say she weighed 6.6 oz. but it would only be a guess. I do know she was born in the afternoon and it changed my life forever. I swear I have never loved a girl as much as I love my baby Kaylee. It was love at first sight.It is eighteen days until her 15th birthday. This is the summer before her sophomore season in high school. Almost fifteen! The sad thing is that I can not do any thing to ease her pain.We started chemotherapy yesterday and it has demolished my baby girl. She is so sick that I can not recall being in the presence of anyone as ill as this little angel. Her spirit is at its lowest and I’m scared. I’m scared that her low immune system could allow a simple virus to ravage her defenseless body. I’m terrified that her body, or her almighty father God, might decide to call it quits. The worst nightmare a parent could ever have.June 26, 2007 12:05 a.m. - Today has been a better day for Kaylee. She is still sick and weak but was more alert then yesterday.June 26, 2007 9:10 p.m. - Our day has been exhausting. Visitors are coming left and right and we are trying to entertain in a sense. The drive here is 2 hours long. So when some one travels that distance to see you, you feel obligated to meet & greet but we are worn out. The support from our family and friends has been incredible.June 26, 2007 11:48 p.m. - I just arrived at the Ronald McDonald house. I feel grateful to be accepted into the house but would give anything to be at home with Kaylee. I keep having negative thoughts about Kaylee’s recovery. I’m optimistic about her improvements but concerned about her ability to fight off infection and virus’. I will keep my concerns to myself.June 27, 2007 11:06 a.m. - My night went rather well considering I slept in the Ronald McDonald House alone. I was unfamiliar with the surroundings but felt blessed that I had a place to sleep. I am amazed at the “workings” of this whole illness thing. There are people to comfort you, people to feed you, cloth you, house you, assist you, and almost anything and everything a family might need to cope with this terrible disease called cancer. I am making a commitment to contribute to these organizations when I can do so.June 28, 2007 11:37 a.m. – Today Kaylee is looking spectacular! Her color and skin looks so much better. She is still sleeping. Exhausted. Worn down. Beat up. But she was told that if she doesn’t start eating and drinking she will not be able to go home.Her resilient spirit is second to none. I am so proud of her and her strength.June 28, 2007 9:13 p.m. – Sometime today around 3:00 p.m. the doctors came in to tell us or advise us on a certain “situation”. It seems that Kaylee's liver is having troubles. It is irritated and unhappy and should rest. But the treatment (chemotherapy) she needs today will in all probability upset the liver even more. But if they delay treatment for the cancer it will continue to grow and her life would be in grave danger. But if we did delay treatment it would give her liver additional time to heal. We all agreed that extinguishing the cancer is the top priority and we can only pray her liver will survive and rebound. We’ll just cross that bridge when it comes.
June 29, 2007 9:20 a.m. – I took Kaylee for a stroll in the wheelchair today.She had herself an egg & sausage biscuit in the cafeteria. Chocolate milk washed the two bites down. Her eyes are bright yellow from the unhappy liver. She is so beautiful even when she looks sick. Her manners have never disappeared even though she can hardly talk. It is always "thank you."I also took Kaylee outside for a minute. I needed the wind to hit her face. I wanted her to hear the birds chirping. It is those little things that we take for granted every day. I love my daughter more than I can say.

Grandma: Part 1

Dear Representative Cleaver,
My name is Michael Quijas. I am a proud father of a young 15 yr-old girl who is fighting cancer, leukemia. We were diagnosed on June 21, 2007. This last year was very hard and unpredictable. We have been fighting for our daughter's health and have had to dig dip inside to get through certain days. We were blessed with a strong family, with friends, and community that rallied behind us.

Along our journey we made friends with other families battling similar sickness in their kids. I write you tonight about one mother in particular, a mother that is struggling to keep her family afloat. Her name is Claudia and her beautiful daughter's name is Kerry Magana. Claudia is a single mother with 3 kids. She has no family or friends to help her. Until recently she had been riding the bus to work, she has walked to Children's Mercy Hospital from East KC, and she has had to let her sick daughter ride the bus alone to get her chemo in the clinic. Since Claudia is the only provider in the home she is forced to leave Kerry daily so she can work to keep a roof over the family's head. She needs help, she needs your help.

Kerry's grandmother lives in Honduras and has tried unsuccessfully to get a Visa to come stay with the family until Kerry's bone marrow transplant is complete. They deemed Kerry's case not an emergency. As a father who has a child battling the same disease, it is an emergency. This little girl is fighting alone daily with no one to over see her taking her meds, (with blood disease you could sleep all day and not even know it), the bone marrow transplant requires that this little girl stay hospitalized for 6-8 weeks following the procedure. There needs to be someone there with her. Right now Claudia has to be at the hospital every Wednesday to sign off on the chemotherapy that Kerry receives. She is at risk of losing her job due to the demands of this disease. She needs someone to help her, someone like her mother, someone to bring comfort and assistance like only a mother can. As my Congressman, as a Congressman who's a father, a grandfather I ask you to please lend your help, your hand in saving this beautiful little girl.

We need a Humanitarian Visa for this little girl's Grandmother. Please help me help them. The Guadalupe Center has been blown away by this Mother's story and is requesting an application from Mr. Ruiz. Please take a look at this application and let us know what can be done through your office/resources.

I own a TV channel - InAd TV - that plays Kansas City's top restaurants, nightclubs, and entertainment venues (The Power & Light/KC Live). If I can ever help with a cause, an event, or a campaign please know I'm here for you! Please give me a call or an email and I can give you more details or info regarding Kerry Magana.

I'm a blessed man because I can provide my family with the tools, resources, and time needed to fight this thing as comfortably as possible. I'm blessed that I get to have my wife next to my daughter daily as we fight our sickness. My wife and I both have the luxury to rub our daughter's back as she gets so sick. Imagine if you were a parent and couldn't be there for your child. I only hope we can help because if by chance this little girl passes away I don't want this mother to have any regrets! I want grandma here so she can rub the back if mom has to work.

At first I thought why would God give this to us. But now I know. He gave me this so I might help others. I just created a non-profit called - 10 Kids Insured - that will insure children lacking health care in programs such as Operation Breakthrough and Guadalupe Center. What I thought was a curse has turned into a blessing! Please help Kerry Magana and her mother. They are legal residents of the US and they need some representation. Thank you Mr. Cleaver.

Thank you,
Michael Quijas
816.651.9471
michael@inadtv.com
www.inadtv.com

Don't let the sickness steal your smile...

I was thinking the other day what advice Kaylee would give me concerning myself and sickness. I turned the tables, and thought what piece of knowledge would Kaylee bestow upon me if she thought I had the fight of my life at hand. Here's what I came up with. She would tell me never lose my smile and my sense of humor. I'm sure of it. She would never want me to surrender or lose my personality. I think if we switched roles, that would be the one thing that would deflate Kay - me losing that laugh.



I truly enjoy life and love laughing. Laughing was what got us through those first days. Even though Kaylee got severely sick we laughed, smiled, and cried occasionally. But our internal medicine was laughter. We never let the sickness steal our smile. Sure it's gotten tough at times, but we found humor somewhere. So keep your smile if sickness knocks at your door because it might be that smile that eases someones pain!

Maybe you know me, maybe you don't. Today I ask you to take a moment and read this whether you know me or not. Today I was at Children's Mercy Hospital with Kaylee and Tammie. Kaylee had to be put under anesthesia for the procedures she had to endure today. So much scar tissue has built up, she can no longer be awake for the needles and punctures.

While we were in there we ran into Kerry Magania's mother. You might remember Kerry in some of my earlier blogs. I had helped out in the Bone Marrow Drive. Kerry has relapsed and is fighting sickness. Kerry is a beautiful 15 yr-old child. She is struggling.

We were in the waiting room waiting for Kay and Kerry's mom was also waiting. We talked and her mom started crying. She said that it was so hard trying to work daily while her baby's health was declining. We talked about how it was so difficult trying to work. She said that her family consists of 2 other children besides Kerry. She had to make sure the bills are paid but would much rather be home making sure Kerry was waking up and being taken care of. Kerry like all kids are so tired. This blood disease is tiring. I listened to her tell us about her mother who lives in Honduras. She said that her mother has tried more than once to apply for a Visa but has be denied because they say this situation is not life threatening. It is! If this little girl doesn't have the proper care only a mother or grandmother can give then she is in trouble.

My heart ached. I want to help but don't know how. I called a State Representative while I sat there and he gave me a name in Emanuel Clever's office. This man is the one who might be able to help but who knows. If you read this and know or keep in touch with Julie Myers from high school, the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security and Immigration Investigations, please give her my number. If you know someone with connections then please think about an angle to get this grandmother here. Comfort can create miracles!

Thank You...

Today marks the one year anniversary of our leukemia diagnosis. What a difference a year makes. I got a little choked up this afternoon when Kaylee started recapping that day last year. We are having dinner tonight to mark the progress we've made. I love my daughter more than words can describe. So this is sweet and simple.

I thank you God for allowing me time with such a beautiful girl whom I'm lucky enough to call my daughter. I thank you for letting me see. If it hadn't have been for that gift then I may never have gotten to see the light, the love, and the lessons from this.

Thank you!

Sleepovers and sickless days...

My troubles started last Father's Day. Kaylee had arrived home from Florida the night before Father's Day. It was Sunday, Father's Day, and Kaylee became ill. I thought she was fibbing. I reasoned she was holding out on the Father's Day because she was detached from her computer for a whole week. I told her at one point to get off the computer during our BBQ because I wasn't falling for her tactics.

Kaylee progressively got worse. During the first week Kaylee had flu symptoms. She was sick. Tonight Kaylee went to the Plaza for dinner. Last night she spent the night with Bailee Woods. Two nights ago she stayed with Allysa. Wednesday she stayed with my sister Kelly. Kaylee looks and feels so good. I am so proud of her. She is self conscious about certain things but loves her life and her situation at the moment.

Kaylee said she was so comfortable at Bailee's home. I told her how nice it was for me to hear that. The Woods picked Kaylee up last night around 6:30. They took her to their house. I had about an hour with the family. I love them. We have a friendship based off similar experiences. No hidden agenda. No false promises. Our kids are the glue that bonded us. I can't tell you how special the friendship with the Woods family is, but let me suggest a thing to you. If you ever get something as devastating as a cancer diagnosis, keep your eyes open because God might be as kind to you as he was to us when he teamed us up with the Woods family.

I'm going to bed. I have a house full of kids tonight and the sound of laughter is filling our home. I feel like I'm going to sleep exceptionally well. Have a good night and a better tomorrow!

Maybe...

I wanted to inform everyone that Kaylee does not have a fracture in her leg. We spent yesterday at the hospital getting x-rays and they showed Kaylee has no broken bones. We decided it was best to be safe so we made the trip to CMH. It took some time out of our afternoon but the news was worth the time. Kaylee must have twisted it.

Kaylee spent the night at her best friend Allysa's house last night. It is so nice to see her getting back to normal. I got a little sick with the fact that we had to travel to CMH yesterday. I thought how unfair. This kid keeps plugging away but has to deal with obstacle after obstacle. Her little body is so fragile. I always want to help her but she wants no assistance. I feel for her. Her little wig doesn't fit anymore because her hair is growing back. The hair is at a small growth she doesn't feel good with. She wears a small stocking cap to conceal her new found hair. She wears a hoodie. I'm guessing it's because her body temperature swings back and forth. When we are out in public it is obvious that she is battling back from something. I catch people looking all the time. I notice people trying to figure it out. I as the father want to scream she has cancer but that's not allowed. The majority of all people have no clue that any of us can be thrown into sickness at any moment.

I get into trouble because there are those that ask Kaylee what's wrong. Especially with her little hobble. She always replies that she twisted her ankle. I sometimes fill in the other part about cancer and Kaylee doesn't like it. I only do this when I can tell that the person is sincerly interested in what this little girl is battling. I think anyone fighting or being inconvenienced with things such as ours should be applauded. I would grab every kid and reward them if I could. I think anyone robbed of their youth, childhood should be noted for bravery. These children face things most will never face and depend on institutions and professionals to get them better. How scary. I think trying to survive is hard enough for most but being dependent on things outside the norm is troubling. What if the family you were born into has trouble providing three meals a day then suddenly they have to figure out how to get meds? It hurts me dearly to think about other families and the things that some have to deal with. Let the kids be kids, life is hard enough as it is!

I wonder sometimes if God gave me this so I could make a difference. Maybe I was chosen to handle this situation for a reason? Maybe it will be Michael Quijas who helps in some way. Maybe it is me that contributes in some way that makes things easier for families. Maybe God delivered this sickness to my door for a reason. Maybe!

St. Louis for the day...

Kaylee and I went to St. Louis for the day yesterday. We drove up there and stayed at a hotel in the downtown area. I suggested the trip on Tuesday and Kaylee quickly agreed. It was only us two that made the trip. We arrived back home today around 3:00 PM. Our entertainment was limited because Kaylee has a hurt leg. Her ankle is swollen and she can barely walk today. I think I am taking her to CMH tomorrow to have it X-rayed. We have been told that steroids and chemo can make the bones brittle.

Our intentions originally were to go to Six Flags. We determined that we wouldn't be able to walk long enough to enjoy the outing. We made the decision to go ahead with the trip just to relax and it would also give Kaylee some drive time on the open highway. I booked a room at the Millennium Hotel. I wish I could give raving reviews but the room was very small. The key worked only after 5 to 10 minutes of concentration. The room was categorized as a contemporary setting and it was. It was so hip that it was uncomfortable. Lighting in the room was horrible and light switches were hidden. The restaurant we looked forward to eating at was booked solid for the night. The taxi driver tried charging us $10.00 for a four block ride.

The time with Kaylee in a new city was priceless. We stopped off in Columbia, MO to see where everything unfolded last year. The diagnosis was almost a year exactly, well 10 days shy. Our first stop was at the hotel. I felt so emotional pulling back into town. The same front desk guy was there. He remembered me easily. I told him how thankful we were for his kindness and generosity last year. It was nice to tell them Kaylee was doing better.

Our next stop was University Hospital. Dr. Tran was our doctor who diagnosed Kay. We told the front desk we wanted to see the doctor and why. I could tell she knew our moment was pretty special. To our excitement Dr. Tran was working. So we were taken back and waited about 15 minutes for the doctor. I can't explain how good it felt being able to sit in that Urgent Care room with my daughter, to say thank you.

Dr. Tran came in and he remembered us. He gave us both a hug and a smile. He told us he often thought what happened to Kaylee. We said we were here and getting our health back. We talked for 45 minutes and then Dr. Tran walked us to our car. It was a good time. I think Kaylee and I both got something out of the trip. I only wish I had taken a picture with the doctor. Next time.

When we arrived in St. Louis we ate at Jack in the Box. We love those tacos. We haven't had Jack in the Box since we left Los Angeles. It was nice. Our night was easy. We went shopping downtown for some new things for Kaylee. We arrived back to the hotel and ate dinner in the cafe. We ended up back in the room and watched a movie. It was relaxing.

Today we did the Arch Tour. It was the first time for me and it was impressive. I'm sure Kaylee enjoyed it too. I realized something today. It is not completely enjoyable for me being somewhere without my whole family. I enjoyed spending time with Kaylee but I missed Christian and Tammie. Traveling without the whole team makes it incomplete. Next time!

Well I thought I'd share our day. Have fun and enjoy your family!

This Friday and Saturday...

Sleepless Nights...

Kaylee has been without an immune system for almost a month. Her doctors think it is the chemo that is ravaging her system and putting her at risk. We had a bone marrow test done last Wednesday to see if the cancer had come back and it showed that it hadn't. The test was done on Wednesday and all the results came back negative on Friday. On Friday night Kaylee looked soo tired and we told her. She said "how would you sleep at night if you had to wait for news if your cancer had returned?"

It was at that moment that I looked at her differently. She wasn't my kid but a person. A person scared for her health. Wow! Can you imagine the fright you or I would have concerning our health? I get caught up that this person is my kid and we are going through this together but it really is just Kaylee. I don't have to get the needles, bone marrow, or spinal taps. It is my baby but ultimately I go to sleep but does she on days like those? Apparently not. My baby but it's her sleepless nights! I love you Kaylee Marie and I'm so glad the school year is over. You are a Junior as of today, and I know this coming school year will be an awesome time in your life.

Mallory Holtman is awesome...

On May 8th I shared a story with everyone about a Softball Team from Central Washington University. The article made me feel good so I wrote the University. I loved the kindness and the compassion that took place and I thought that I would drop a line to let them know. I never expected to hear back from them - but I did. Shortly after the University received my letter they responded and asked if Kaylee would be interested in becoming an honorary Wildcat. They would be sending the apparel. Soon someone else responded and told me they had shared my letter with the team and everyone was praying and cheering on Kaylee. Then last night I received a phone call from Mallory Holtman, the first baseman, who wanted to personally tell me how much my note meant to her. Out of all the talk shows and exposure she called me and Kaylee! Thank you Mallory, the call touched me and Kay! The story can be read on my blog or by clicking the link I've included. http://msn.foxsports.com/olympics/story/8091708?MSNHPHCP&GT1=39002 Here's what I wrote to the school and team.

My name is Michael Quijas and I have a child who is battling cancer, leukemia, since June 21, 2007. I read the story about your girls softball team just now and it made my eyes fill with tears. So many times we get caught up in winning and playing and forget about the real important issues in life. Those issues or important things are how or what you did during your day to make a difference. I am so proud of the players, the organization, and your school for producing such great individuals. So many times we say that there is no "I" in team and I agree, but certain times there are moments when that one "I" can fuel an entire team to greatness. That person may have been the coach, it might have been the first baseman, or may have been the team in general but someone in your organization became that "I" I hope my daughter gets the opportunity to be. Please let your girls know that there is 15 yr-old cheerleader, Kaylee Quijas, in Lee's Summit, MO (Kansas City) who is cheering for your team/school. Although Kaylee hasn't had the chance to attend a day of school this year, due to major sickness, we are glad to say that you and your students gave us something to cheer about here at home! This may seem goofy that I'm writing, but sometimes in life you get thrown a curve ball and it's what you do with it that makes a difference. I was mad for a moment when my child got sick but it opened my eyes, and it has made me appreciate life. This particular story compelled me to write and tell you how great it was for me to read about something so special and inspiring.

Michael Quijas

Lees Summit, MO

InAd TV Goes Public

For Immediate Release
CONTACT: MICHAEL QUIJAS
MICHAEL@INADTV.COM
http://www.inadtv.com/
(877) 4 INAD TV

May 12, 2008 – The InAd TV Network will start construction on the public restrooms in the Power and Light District this week. This installation will mark the first of many public installs slated for construction thru 2009. The decision to move on public facilities was made by President Michael Quijas. “Our core business has been with restaurants and nightclubs, but we’ve decided to include and grasp the offers we receive weekly from office parks, entertainment zones, and municipalities from across the nation. Our product works for anyone who wants to inform or broadcast a message.” says Quijas. “Times are changing so quickly with technology that people are looking for new and innovative ways to keep up. Our systems allow management or property owners to greet each of their customers or tenants with a personalized message each and everyday.”

InAd TV Network is a Kansas City-based digital network channel that can be easily recognized by the signature TV’s that are placed above urinals and in the vanity mirrors of KC’s finest establishments. This unique channel gives advertisers, owners, or management an opportunity to target the successful crowds that frequent these locations. InAd TV is so effective because of the full digital commercial capability combined with sound. For more information on how to get your message across or your business noticed please contact Michael Quijas or Ken Campbell at 877.446.2388 or visit http://www.inadtv.com/.

To you on Mother's Day...

I am writing this blog today for Tammie Lei Quijas. First I want to say Happy Mother's Day. It's hard to describe with words to anyone the road we've traveled this last 10 months. No parent should have to endure the nightmare we've encountered this last year. I often think to myself that God has a plan, I'm just glad that he included you in my plan. Even though we've had obstacles and adversity to get around I feel blessed that I have you to travel with.

I want to commend you on your care and love you have shown all of us for as long as I can remember but more importantly the last year. You have been strong when I wasn't. You put a spin on things for me that made me tougher and able to get through. You administered medicine and shots to our child when she begged you not too, but you did and I thank you. You carry Kaylee's cancer book to every appointment so you can document every single dosage and comment. I thank you for being with me through the nights we cried and held each other in the hospital not knowing if Kaylee was going to make it another day. I thank you knowing and being able to relate to the pain I felt over a certain little girl named Kaylee Marie Quijas. I thank you for taking care of Christian every morning before school because you needed and need him to know his day is just important as everyone else's. I thank you for having something always ready to eat for Christian when he gets off the bus. I thank you for never wanting to leave the hospital. I thank you for standing by me in all my endeavors when everyone else said it wouldn't work. I thank you for taking pride in your home and having it comfortable and clean for all of us when we arrive home. I thank you for the positive, unwavering position you have shown through all of this sickness. I thank you for the love you have demonstrated to both of our children. I thank you for being the parent who is at every practice and game for her kids. I thank you for acting like I never surprise you with my accomplishments. I thank you for reminding me that I can do great things, or in your words "Your Michael Quijas and you can do anything!" I thank you for creating an environment where every kid wants to be at our home. Finally, I want to thank you for doing the yard work. Without you we would have angry neighbors and dirty clothes!

InAd TV Ropes PBR Big Sky Cowboy Bar

For Immediate Release
CONTACT: MICHAEL QUIJAS
MICHAEL@INADTV.COM
http://www.inadtv.com/
(877)4 INAD TV

April 28, 2008 - InAd TV is pleased to announce their newest TV network partner - PBR Big Sky Cowboy Bar! This new addition to the Power and Light District is a perfect fit for a city known for its BBQ, steaks, and American Royal Rodeo. Big Sky held its Grand Opening on April 10, 2008 and their success continues to ensure Kansas City of a premiere Country and Western venue.
InAd TV Network is a Kansas City-based digital network channel that can be easily recognized by the signature TV’s that are placed above urinals and in the restroom mirrors of KC’s finest restaurants and nightclubs. This unique channel gives advertisers an opportunity to capitalize off the successful crowds that frequent their locations by prominently displaying full video commercials with sound to a captive audience.
So cowboy up and head down to the hottest place in town and check out InAd TV.

InAd TV goes with a homestyle recipe

For Immediate Release
CONTACT: MICHAEL QUIJAS
MICHAEL@INADTV.COM
http://www.inadtv.com/
(877) 4 INAD TV

April 7, 2008 – The InAd TV Network will celebrate the Grand Opening of the new Stroud’s Restaurant & Bar with much enthusiasm today like so many others, but the company’s excitement goes beyond the signature cinnamon rolls and home style fried chicken dinners. InAd TV is pleased to announce their newest location in the much acclaimed historic Stroud’s Restaurant.
InAd TV Network is a Kansas City-based digital network channel that can be easily recognized by the signature TV’s that are placed above urinals and in the restroom mirrors of KC’s finest restaurants and nightclubs. This unique channel gives advertisers an opportunity to capitalize off the successful crowds that frequent their locations by prominently displaying full video commercials with sound to a captive audience.
Stroud’s South will open today at 11:00 a.m. at 4200 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Fairway, KS. For more information on how to get your business noticed please contact Michael Quijas or Ken Campbell at 877.446.2388 or visit www.inadtv.com

The InAd TV Network partners with Mcfadden’s

For Immediate Release
CONTACT: MICHAEL QUIJAS
MICHAEL@INADTV.COM
http://www.inadtv.com/
(877) 4 INAD TV

JANUARY 31, 2008 - Mcfadden’s Sports Saloon located at 1330 Grand Blvd. in the Power & Light district is the latest addition to the rapidly growing and ever popular InAd TV Channel Network.
InAd TV is a Kansas City-based digital network channel that can be easily recognized by the signature TV’s that are placed above urinals and in the restroom mirrors of KC’s finest restaurants and nightclubs.
The on-air programming includes in-house promotions like specials, upcoming events, and featured menu items.
In addition to the in-house promotional tool, InAd TV gives advertisers an opportunity to capitalize off the successful crowds that frequent their locations by prominently displaying full video commercials with sound to a captive audience.
For more information on how to get your business noticed please contact Michael Quijas or Ken Campbell at 877.446.2388 or at www.inadtv.com

There'll be sad songs to make you cry...

We're just at 10 1/2 months of cancer. Kaylee is feeling better overall. Although she has certain times where the pain is troubling, there are less and less sleepless nights. Kaylee is also gaining her weight back and her hair is starting grow. I feel like we are adjusting. I remember writing months ago and asking when I would snap out of it. I look back and think that it was alright to be down and confused. At the time I thought I should have been out of the confusion phase and into the taking care of business mode. That was like three or four months into it. I'm still shaken up at times by a song or memory but for the most part I am feeling so much better then those first few months.



I want everyone reading this to know that it is ok to work your way through heartbreak. I was comparing myself to others and thought that my grieving period was lasting longer than those around me. I felt like I was violating time tables. My pain was great and I had to work out of it in my own way. Everyone is different and there's no way of telling how it is going to affect each individual. Was I unusual because I was consumed with the pain and sickness my child was fighting? No. Kaylee is my child, my baby girl and I was devastated that she was diagnosed with cancer.

Sometimes I listen to music and think about our life. The most recent was today when David Cook was singing Mariah Carey's "You'll always be my baby" It made me think of California and the past. I thought back to Kaylee as a little girl. It was a period and time I took for granted. I never connected songs or artists to my child. Well I thought I didn't but I did and I have. I used to just associate Boston, Elton John, and similar groups to my younger years. High school was the association I normally made to music. Yesterday it was Kay and the 90's. I thought again how - if anything ever happened to my loved ones - would it be possible to listen to that music again. I'm not sure. I'm positive that I'm not the first person to question this. I'm sure it happens frequently to people who've had a parent pass away. Those songs.

I don't give it much thought about the "what ifs" but sometimes they do arrive and make me think. Today I must enjoy the music because there's no reason not to. Although if you see me driving and there's a tear in my eye, please be aware that I might not notice you. Elton John, Mariah Carey, or Sarah Mclachlan may have my attention and they may have me somewhere else in time. As Billy Ocean said "There'll be sad songs to make you cry..."

Stability in the mood...

Kaylee can't sleep because she has pain going on with her arm. We think it is those steroids again but who knows. Yesterday morning was extremely difficult because Tammie was going to the store and asked if I would lay in bed with Kay so she wasn't alone. I went in and she had tears rolling down her face. It sucks not being able to do for someone you love. It also sucks having to be emotionally tough towards your kid. I hate that there's pain, I hate that my child is in her room crying when she should be at school having fun. This young girl is fighting things no one should, and dealing with emotional things way beyond her years. Watching as a father, but more importantly her father, is beyond words.

I can watch a program about kids in Africa and get emotional. I will easily shed a tear and get choked up. To have your own kid, one that is suffering look at you for relief is tough. I can only sit with her and rub her back or leg to give comfort. I feel so guilty that I can't grab her and get emotional but I can't because we have to be strong to get through this. Even though I can't fix this, I have to look strong for stability. Stability is an important thing during times like these!

Midwest Airlines - The best care in the air

Midwest Airlines - The best care in the air

A great story...

http://msn.foxsports.com/olympics/story/8091708?MSNHPHCP&GT1=39002

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - With two runners on base and a strike against her, Sara Tucholsky of Western Oregon University uncorked her best swing and did something she had never done, in high school or college. Her first home run cleared the center-field fence.
But it appeared to be the shortest of dreams come true when she missed first base, started back to tag it and collapsed with a knee injury.
She crawled back to first but could do no more. The first-base coach said she would be called out if her teammates tried to help her. Or, the umpire said, a pinch runner could be called in, and the homer would count as a single.
Then, members of the Central Washington University softball team stunned spectators by carrying Tucholsky around the bases Saturday so the three-run homer would count - an act that contributed to their own elimination from the playoffs.
Central Washington first baseman Mallory Holtman, the career home run leader in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference, asked the umpire if she and her teammates could help Tucholsky.
The umpire said there was no rule against it.
So Holtman and shortstop Liz Wallace put their arms under Tucholsky's legs, and she put her arms over their shoulders. The three headed around the base paths, stopping to let Tucholsky touch each base with her good leg.
"The only thing I remember is that Mallory asked me which leg was the one that hurt," Tucholsky said. "I told her it was my right leg and she said, 'OK, we're going to drop you down gently and you need to touch it with your left leg,' and I said 'OK, thank you very much."'
"She said, 'You deserve it, you hit it over the fence,' and we all kind of just laughed."
"We started laughing when we touched second base," Holtman said. "I said, 'I wonder what this must look like to other people."'
"We didn't know that she was a senior or that this was her first home run," Wallace said Wednesday. "That makes the story more touching than it was. We just wanted to help her."
Holtman said she and Wallace weren't thinking about the playoff spot, and didn't consider the gesture something others wouldn't do.
As for Tucholsky, the 5-foot-2 right fielder was focused on her pain.
"I really didn't say too much. I was trying to breathe," she told The Associated Press in a telephone interview Wednesday.
"I didn't realize what was going on until I had time to sit down and let the pain relax a little bit," she said. "Then I realized the extent of what I actually did."
"I hope I would do the same for her in the same situation," Tucholsky added.
As the trio reached home plate, Tucholsky said, the entire Western Oregon team was in tears.
Central Washington coach Gary Frederick, a 14-year coaching veteran, called the act of sportsmanship "unbelievable."
For Western Oregon coach Pam Knox, the gesture resolved the dilemma Tucholsky's injury presented.
"She was going to kill me if we sub and take (the home run) away. But at the same time I was concerned for her. I didn't know what to do," Knox said.
Tucholsky's injury is a possible torn ligament that will sideline her for the rest of the season, and she plans to graduate in the spring with a degree in business. Her home run sent Western Oregon to a 4-2 victory, ending Central Washington's chances of winning the conference and advancing to the playoffs.
"In the end, it is not about winning and losing so much," Holtman said. "It was about this girl. She hit it over the fence and was in pain, and she deserved a home run."

2 Hold Outs and a Smile...

I can't tell you how great I felt today. Besides Kaylee having to go to CMH for blood work this morning, I had a great day. I was happy and I was productive. I'm not trying to toot my own horn, but I hardly ever get mad during my day and I feel I treat everyone fair. I laugh a lot and generally have fun doing whatever it is I'm doing. I want to be the kind of person I'd want to be around. I sometimes get around people and I want to leave as soon as I get there. Misery can be contagious if you're not careful.



I gave a presentation at 11:00 am at the Bernstein-Rein Advertising office this morning. There were 9 employees from the media department waiting for me in the conference room. I took the seat at the head of the table and did my thing. I think that the speeches I've given over the last year have really helped in my cool and calm department. I use to get really nervous but I've figured out that you need to stay cool and calm, and never act as if you're out of breathe.



I always pretend like I'm the boss. The old saying was "pretend everyone in the room is naked" but I just pretend that I'm the big guy who calls the shots. Crazy? Well it works for me. I envision everyone wanting to be me! Try it, it works. When I talk about my product or service I imagine that I am sharing financials with stockholders. When someone from the crowd makes eye contact I pretend I'm going to offer this person the employee of the month award. It works.

When I arrived this morning for the meeting I was feeling great. It wasn't because I was going into a meeting with 9 different personalities, or because I was going to try to sell myself for an hour. Misery! It was because I had a moment right before I walked in the door, I thought how lucky I was I to have so many people waiting to talk to me. Silly but who would have thought that you could create a product and demand attention. I was going into a room full of people wanting to hear about this thing they call InAd TV! My dream, my creation, my morning.

Out of the 9 people in the room, I only meshed with 7. The two hold outs were not my personality type. The others were receptive. The last two kept their distance and their smile to themselves. Well I did my thing and ended my presentation and threw in some personal advice. I told everyone to smile during their day and enjoy life. They knew I had a child fighting cancer because someone asked me to tell them a little about myself. So I did. I think that these mothers, fathers, and ad people related when I suggested that they smile. If I can smile having a sick kid, then anyone can. They smiled and said thank you. I finished up the presentation with a funny story on how Bernstein-Rein Advertising and I got introduced. The story was so funny that everyone in the room including my 2 hold outs started laughing. It was only a matter of time before I had 9 out of 9 ad exec's laughing and smiling.

Well I'm out of words, and out of time, but I'm not out of breathe!

Suspenders and ugly ties...

It is noon on Sunday and I'm lounging around the house. Kaylee is sleeping and Christian is playing ball in the neighborhood. Kaylee got out of the house for awhile last night. I stayed in and had a night with Christian. Tammie joined Kaylee to a friends house so they could watch their son while they went out with friends.

I gave a speech Friday to Central Missouri State University students. It was part of a Tech Conference and I got the invite to talk about being an entrepreneur. It was an honor. I was nervous but talking in public has gotten easier for me. I truly think that I could give a speech to a stadium if I was asked. I use to black out and forget what I said. It was like I couldn't hear my words. Today I'm conscious when I speak, if I was only 40 lbs. lighter then I'd be a force to deal with. Look out Matt Lauer.

When I'm around other people like me, entrepreneurs, I size myself up. I say that not to gain sympathy but I'm being real. It's like being an athlete and scouting the room for talent. Whose your competitor and how do they conduct themselves? I'm not saying I want to confirm to a certain mold but I'm different. We all want to have people invest in us as a business but more importantly as a person. I know guys who can get money strictly off their name and reputation. I have to fight for a dime because I've never ran in the same circles. The guys who were at CMSU Tech Conference with me were more established. I say that because several had sold companies in the past for millions and here I am. I have my own sizzle but I didn't have their style. That's not bad by no means. I just didn't seem like them.

I always reflect back to San Diego, CA. These guys that I knew who owned businesses there wore flip flops and shorts. Sure I might not be talking guys running financial accounts and investments but guys who had business that allowed them freedom. Surf shops, retail clothing, and a variety of other things that had them making their own rules. I sometimes leave these functions in my crappy Hyundai or Jeep while the guy next to me departs in his Mercedes and I always sense that maybe just maybe I should sell out to their style because I might arrive quicker. But I like being real. Is my being real impeding me and my advancement. Do I confirm to suspenders and ugly ties? Who knows and I guess we'll find out where I end up soon!

Willie Wilson...

I had lunch with the legendary Kansas City Royal Willie Wilson this afternoon. I am helping Willie with his 3-day charity event happening on May 31st thru June 2nd. The event takes place at the T-Bones Stadium, Community Ballpark. It includes an old timers game or as he calls it, previous All-Stars. There is a dental clinic, and golf tournament as well. This event will benefit The Children's Miracle Network. Our appointment was at 11:30 but Willie called me early in the morning as I laid in bed and moved it to 11:00. I laughed when I hung the phone up because it was Willie calling me, Michael Quijas. If you are reading this and don't know who Willie is, well then you're too young and that's too bad because he was from a period where Royal baseball ruled!

Willie was a Kansas City Royal's baseball player for fifteen plus years. He was and is so wide known to us older people because he was baseball and the Royals. Our team back in the 70's & 80's was awesome. The majority of players stayed for years and we were tough. I can remember having a team that was always in contention for a championship. Willie said it was because of the owner at the time. Mr. Kauffman.

I listened to his stories and came away from the conversation with the understanding that he was part of more than a team but was part of a family. He was a part of a baseball family headed by the owner. Although baseball is a corporation and ran that way, it also has leaders. Leaders can lead with a strict hand or leaders can be part of the growth & equation. Call me crazy but I relate everything to what I'm going through. I lead my family and I'm leading a business. Both can be done with strict guidelines where no one wants to stay long or you can do it with understanding and compassion. Some say I wear my emotions on my sleeve but that is me. I know from experience that things can change so quickly and unexpectedly that I must be ready to adapt. Being a leader is not writing checks or just talking the talk but living it with your players. I might not have hit any home runs or won any championships but I am playing the game. It is called life and I so want to succeed!

Is there a doctor in the house...

I want to share something that happened to me this afternoon. Kaylee was at her scheduled appointment at CMH for her painful spinal tap and testing. I was at an appointment at the Power & Light when I received a phone call from the hospital. Tammie asked me to come to the clinic because the doctors wanted to talk to me. Tam's whispering somewhat scared me. I asked her what the whispering was about and she said that there was a family that was newly diagnosed and the doctors wanted me to come to the hospital and talk with them. The father was having a difficult time dealing with the news and they wanted me to talk with him. Me!



I cut everything short that I had planned and made my way to the hospital. I was approached by the staff and they asked if I would travel to the floor, the admission floor, and talk with the dad. I agreed. I can not explain the common thread or fraternity that you have when you go through this. It is beyond words. The feelings or emotions are text book. You encounter things that are so out of the norm. You feel alone. You want comfort then you get sick of the phone calls. You get messages of support that you want then you don't. You question statistics and then you ignore them. You ask why God did this to you and not your neighbor. You reason in your head that you could sacrifice your Mother, your wife, or any of your relatives if only God would spare your child. The fog is so thick that life as you know it will never be the same.



I walked to the floor and the father was walking out. He had head phones and running clothes on. The doctor introduced us and left. We talked outside in the lobby. He told me he was tired. I explained that I was not there to promote religion, or minimize. I told him that he will take whatever I say as words and no matter what I say he will say to himself that "this guy doesn't realize the love I have for my kid" I agree, I love my child more than you! It is similar to a break up. You will always have people tell you to stick in there because they did it and experienced it. Well the fact is I told my self that no one knows my pain because Kaylee is one of a kind. I love and feel more than anyone!

The truth is that all these feelings are going to be there in the beginning. Darkness is everywhere and one day turns into the next. I literally thought it was Wednesday when it was Friday. I sometimes felt relief because there was no where I had to be but next to my child. I got sick at times because I knew there was another member of my family, Christian, being thrown out of his routine. It is so overwhelming.

I told him that my blog was my savior and my friend. It really was. I had to find something to occupy me. It was this trust worthy blog! It was funny I said it because it was something that he said he was doing as well. I look back and thank how lucky I was to find my coping mechanism, and how fast I did it. Today I can go back through and read about days I felt like dying and can smile for the fact that I documented my story.

I was honored that the doctors, picked me out of the hundreds that attend the clinic to make this vulnerable man feel better. Hell, maybe I didn't do anything or say anything that was worth listening to. But it did something for me and I guess that's all that matters,

Barry for a Break...

Me and Tammie attended the Barry Manilow show last night at the Sprint Center. It was good. We had awesome tickets and an awesome night. Barry put on a good show and he incorporated video clips from the past into the performance. It was all good.

The true enjoyment was watching Tammie enjoy her night. She apparently loves Barry and that is fine. It was worth the price of the ticket to look at Tammie's smile. She was so excited when he came out and called her best friends from childhood each time a certain song would start playing. I love seeing people escape for the night, or the day.

Everyone should have a Barry. Although my release might not include Barry, he worked for Tammie last night. It was so good to watch someone you care about enjoy themselves and forgot their problems for a few hours. Sometimes it's good to raise your arms and your voice - if it's done for the right reason!

Cheers...

On June 6th & 7th there will be an event that I invite everyone to attend. It is Alex's Lemonade Stand which will be at all Hy-Vee stores in Kansas City. The money raised will help with cancer research and will help fund a cure. The organization is led in Kansas City by Mark and Cheryl Mozier. Their son was diagnosed with a tumor years ago and has since recovered. The time and effort they have spent putting Alex's stands in KC has been great. They are the sort of people I strive to be like. They make a difference in life and I think there is a part of all of us who want to do the same. They are doctors and professionals but make time to give back in a huge way.

My hat is off to the Moziers and I raise a glass to their hard work. I encourage everyone to do the same. Please stop by one of the stands and make a donation to a great cause. The funds raised will help find a cure to a disease that can hit families of any race, religion, or social status. Lets help put an end to this suffering, and help the Moziers with their fight against cancer! Cheers.

A great day and a better tomorrow!

Kaylee is doing great. She looks wonderful and feels fantastic. I am loving life! My weekend was the best. We did nothing but it was relaxing. Those cold depressing days were tough this winter. There's something about the sun and spring. I love it.

Our child looks awesome. She has been going to the gym with me to build her strength up. She has been my work out partner. I look at her while we are doing the bike or tread mill and thank God. 2007 was trying and tough but we are going to emerge with newfound knowledge and compassion.

Garth has a hurt leg. I was playing ball with him this weekend and he fell down chasing the ball. Sunday it got worse, and this morning it was swollen big time. I took him to the Vet and they said they believe it is just sprained but they put a cast and splint on him due to his enormous weight. Like I said this winter has been tough on everyone. Me and Garth both gained a few extra pounds due to the cabin fever! We are certain that his recovery will speedy.

If I get one kid up and going then I have the dog go down. It almost seems that Garth keeps trying to out do my child. Kay gets cancer and Garth gets cancer. Kay feels better then Garth breaks his leg to divert attention once again. What are the odds? Have a great day and a better tomorrow!

Leaves and Laps

Last night Tammie and my sister had a birthday dinner for me. There was about 20 people that showed up. It was mainly all my family but a few others stopped by. I was surprised when they told me that 15-20 people would be coming. I was surprised but startled. Startled that I would end up cooking for so many people. My yard has not been taken care of and my grill was not utilized this winter. The last minute booking frightened me.

All that stuff I wasted my time worrying about was insignificant. We had a great time. It wasn't stressful and we all had good food and a great time. I must say that I had one of the best birthdays yesterday. I had so many phone calls, text messages, and emails. I was surprised so many people came to my little dinner and so many people remembered my big day. It was nice.

My yard looks horrible compared to the neighbors. I let the yard work go last year. The summer was chaotic due to Kay's illness. I must confess that I have never been good at yard work. But last summer and fall was terrible. I didn't care about the yard or anything else for that matter. It was all about Kaylee.

Kaylee is doing great. We had an appointment this morning at CMH. Her counts are looking good and Kaylee looks wonderful. We are going to start swimming together. I need to lose weight and Kay needs to gain strength. I'll keep you posted. Have a great day and a wonderful week!

The Moans...

So it's my birthday today. I went for a walk with Garth this morning. It was my reflection time this morning and I enjoyed it. I must say that I have had a great life. Some things I would change but over all it has been a good life. There has been lessons to be learned, there has been joy, and there has been heartbreak. What have I learned?

Today I respect life and I don't take it for granted. I feel strong. I feel like there is purpose for me and purpose for all that has taken place. Everything has had a way of working out for me. I'm not completely out of the woods but I have my sights set on the target. We are going to get healthy and we are going to succeed at what ever we do!

I think about the moans. The pain and the sound of pain has been traumatic. Last night I found out just how much. We had a baseball game and our batter was up to bat and the fastball hit him directly in the face. I did not see the pitch or the painful hit but I saw this child on the floor moaning after the fact. I thought it was Christian. My gut dropped. It wasn't Bubba but this little 12-yr. old was moaning from the pain. He was so hurt. I started crying. I can't tell you how I must of became immune to the sound of pain for survival in my baby girl. Last night it wasn't my child but it spilled out of me because of the fact it wasn't my kid. I have been so geared to deal with whatever to survive. I have tucked the pain away and last night seeing a child on the ground moaning has my heart hurting today. Our batter, Connor, is fine and there was no serious damage but I pray for a speedy recovery and I pray that no kid should ever have to feel pain ever again.

We played baseball

Chapter 4: Involved

Quote of the Day....

I finally figured out the only reason to be alive is to enjoy it.
- Rita Mae Brown

An Eye On the Prize...

Kaylee made it through her appointment today and we are officially in the maintenance phase of our cancer treatments! This is such a huge thing for our family but we had no celebration planned. We weren't sure if she was strong enough for the green light of the maintenance phase so we didn't plan anything. Our last two trips to CMH had us leaving without the official wording from the doctors. Today we received those words we've been waiting for.

I called the bakery and had them make a chocolate cake with the words "Kaylee's kicking some cancer butt!" We are having dinner at Kaylee's favorite restaurant in Lee's Summit. Beauchamp's on the Rail. It is a BBQ and steak house. We secretly delivered the cake so we can surprise Kaylee tonight after dinner. We are blessed today. If you had a bad day today- let it go and celebrate with us. We are one step closer to getting our little girl's health back. :)

Mary Carey...

This is a true story. When I was 22 years-old and Tammie was expecting Kaylee we did not have a car. I would have never told this story a year ago because it was embarrassing to me. We were having a child and lived below hand to mouth. I'm sure everyone was jaw dropped thinking how are they going to do it with no car. We lived with 5 roommates in Waldo and had no place to live. Waldo, no car, and a kid coming.

By the grace of God we found a woman who had a duplex that would rent to us. Tammie worked at Marco Polo's in Waldo and I at Dos Hombres in Brookside. The location of the house was perfect. I walked to work and Tammie had girlfriends that worked with her so they let her carpool. We did this for awhile before I got a call from a woman.

The woman on the phone was Mary Carey. She was the mother of Craig Estopare, a friend I had known since I was 8 years-old. She invited me over to her house because she said she had a present for me. I had not seen Mary in years and she had a present for me? Weird. But I was there when she told me to come. I needed any presents at that time because I was in a cycle of confusion and scare. I was having a kid and I was not ready.

I arrived at Mary's house and we talked. She had heard through one of her boys that I was walking to work and an expecting father. Yes I was. She tossed me some keys. My confusion cycle was hit again. I asked her "what are these?" She said it is the keys to the Ford Tempo sitting outside. She gave me a car. The heat worked, the a/c worked and it had 4 wheels! I might have cried, I don't remember. She looked at me and told me she needed help at one time and this was her way of paying it back.

It's funny how things can work out or not. I believe that sometimes you strap in the seat and let life take you on a ride. Things always seem to work out. Our brown Ford Tempo was the vehicle that we drove Kaylee home from the hospital in. We needed that car and it arrived from an angel named Mary Carey. So investigate the situation sometimes. I know several people that wouldn't give you a dime if you where thirsty because they have a certain mentality that you should do it alone. I have a different mind set. I believe that everyone needs a drink every now and again regardless of where it comes from. Drink up!

Can you help?...

If you read this and can help, please let me know. I want to give a small business immediate exposure in Kansas City's top Restaurants, Nightclubs, and Sports Bars in exchange for a reliable car that I will be donating to help a young man get to work so he can feed his family.

My offer is to put your commercial - that I will produce for free - in front of 250k people per/mo. Our commercials alone would be more than a reliable car, plus combine that with the service/exposure I am offering. We have new P & L District, Legends, Johnson County,and Lee's Summmit markets. I think you'll find that this good deed and city wide coverage will help you professionally and personally.So if you have an extra set of wheels just sitting there, I promise I can get you noticed in a captive way that turns heads!

I spent time with this young 25 year-old yesterday. We had lunch and talked about his dilema. He is from Southern Missouri, a bright young man, and a soon to be father. His car completely died several weeks ago making it impossible to get to work. Eventually he lost his descent paying job because he had no ride to work. The lack of credit and down payment has punched him in the eye. It reminds me when we had Kaylee and no car. I walked to work in Brookside. So I completely agree when people say that everyone will work past any situation that presents itself but this is a hard one. This man wants to work but there is no transit by the home. He wants to work and his track record proves it.

I've decided to help but I don't have an extra $1500 for a car. We have our own troubles here at Fort Quijas. But I am willing to give the only thing I have and that is prime advertising exposure in Kansas City. Please think about it. I know how it gets when life gets you down if certain basic needs aren't met. Having no family that can lend a hand is tough. Having to walk to a job that pays half of what you're used to because you've exhausted all rides to a jobsite that demands you be there at 6:30 am. Bringing less money in the door when your bills stay the same or increase is frustrating. I know. This young man told me he didn't want any hand out but felt he was falling into a cycle. I'm familiar with that cycle. You do the right thing every morning but one small glitch derails everything. Everyone needs some help every once in a while!