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Event
Cancer & A Baby - The Bridges Fundraiser
On August 18th, 2015 Byard III went to the ER for what he thought was a problem with his appendix. After multiple tests, CT scans brought back horrifying results.
Byard III has testicular choriocarcinoma, one of the most rare and most aggressive types of testicular cancer...the same as Lance Armstrong had. Tumors were found in his lungs, abdomen, and scar tissue in his right testicle. A few days later an MRI showed small spots in his brain.
Two weeks after his diagnosis, the couple found out they were expecting their first baby, Byard IV, due May 7th!
He immediately began 4 rounds of intensive, inpatient, 24/7, week long chemotherapy at Hahnemann Hospital in Philadelphia. This process lasted several months. As is typical with this form of treatment he was in and out of the hospital due to various complications.
At the beginning of December the couple received good news that all scans were clear. However, only 2 weeks later Byard III had a seizure due to the cancer in his brain spreading. The seizure left one side of his body with minimal mobility and he was bound to a wheel chair. That is one of the many challenges which Byard III has overcome as he is now able to walk on his own!
Since December he has endured full brain radiation and in February began the process of harvesting his stem cells for replacement therapy. He is under the care of amazing doctors at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and round 2 is now complete, with the possibility of a third one later in April.
Byard III has not been able to work since August, and days before the New Year Samantha was laid off from her job. While it has enabled her to provide strength and support for her husband, as well as focus on preparing for Little B4, the financial strain has certainly taken it's toll.
The love, support, and generosity of friends and family has been most appreciated and overwhelming during this challenging time. Once again, our family is humbled by the most recent outreach from our community.
Thanks to Vinnie Turturiello and the SPFMBA along with other friends of the family, a fundraiser for Byard and Samantha has been set for Friday, May 13th, at the Scotch Plains Italian American Hall.
As many of you are aware, Byard III was a four year member of Marching Band, 3 year Moonglower,and in the Wind Ensemble. His younger brother, Ryan, and sister, Abby, are also alums of SPF and the music program. We spent many years and have wonderful memories of great music, spring trips, and the infamous Budget rental trucks!
We are truly touched by all of the love and support from the community and look forward to sharing a great night of entertainment!
http://posthope.org/byard-bridge-iii
www.gofundme.com/byardbridge
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LocationScotch Plains Italian American Club (View)
1976 Valley Ave.
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
United States
Categories
| Kid Friendly: Yes! |
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Non-Smoking: No |
| Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! |
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