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Posted: 7/19/2008 10:09:31 PM EDT
Hi Alaska/Hawaii friends,

Thank you to those that have called or IM'd about my post in Team from yesterday; I should have also posted in the hometowns so I'm doing that now.  You all are like an extended family so any prayers or support you can lend is appreciated.

Anyway, my wife and I had a Dr. visit on Friday that didn't go very well.

Our little John Michael at 29 weeks (wife's still pregnant) has Congenital Diphragmatic Hernia (CDH) which was found by ultrasound. He has a hole in his left posterior diaphragm that has allowed his bowel and stomach to move into his chest cavity. This in turn has pushed his heart to his right side and significantly stunted his lung growth on the left side. As of now it is barely there and the right side lung is getting compressed as well.  He has a 50/50 chance of survival.  This birth defect affects 1 in 3000 babies and has no known cause.  He will require 3-9 months in the NICU, emergency surgery, heart/lung bypass machines.....I'm scared.

We're quite beside ourselves at the moment; an in depth meeting with us, the specialist, a surgical team, and our normal OBGYN at Providence is set over 2 days August 6-7 to see if we can formulate a game plan. This is our first child and even being unborn just means the world to us!  Hell my little man has a name engraved Alaska lower being built right now.

Megan and I are heading to Denver Children's Hospital on Monday to see them and what they have to offer.  We are exploring all options and all locations.  I'll be in debt until I'm dead if that's what it takes to give our little John Michael Larson a fighting chance.

Anyway guys that's all for now
Link Posted: 7/19/2008 10:15:07 PM EDT
[#1]
Were here for you bro
Link Posted: 7/19/2008 10:18:21 PM EDT
[#2]

Quoted:
Were here for you bro


Thanks Chris, it means a lot.
Link Posted: 7/19/2008 10:57:16 PM EDT
[#3]
I responded in the other thread and did say a prayer. I didn't realize you were in AK and will keep you in my prayers.
Link Posted: 7/19/2008 11:10:10 PM EDT
[#4]
Prayers etc Nik.


Link Posted: 7/19/2008 11:22:22 PM EDT
[#5]
Thanks guys.  Right now I don't know where the rum ends and the day starts, but your thoughts are instramental in keeping me going forward one step at a time.

~Nik
Link Posted: 7/19/2008 11:29:33 PM EDT
[#6]
Modern medicine is an amazing thing
Even in squarebanks it is amazing what they are able to do pre/peri/post natal

If it was my child I would be going through the same struggles you are, believe me.
You just have to trust that things will turn out for the best.

Please, as I am sure I speak for all of us, let us know what you need.  Dont ask, just say the word.
Link Posted: 7/19/2008 11:55:57 PM EDT
[#7]

Quoted:
Modern medicine is an amazing thing
Even in squarebanks it is amazing what they are able to do pre/peri/post natal

If it was my child I would be going through the same struggles you are, believe me.
You just have to trust that things will turn out for the best.

Please, as I am sure I speak for all of us, let us know what you need.  Dont ask, just say the word.


If it was up to me being so damn drunk as I am I'd say a big gun so I could get it all over with.  But  I know in the end that's not the right answer: my wife needs me as does our little boy John.  Thank you for your continued support, that is what will sustain me through this trial.  I know I need to be there for my family and help lead them down the best path I can establish.  I'm working my ass off trying to find a solution.  I know we've got 3-9 months of NICU ahead of us if John survives the delivery.  We can make it.
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 12:34:10 AM EDT
[#8]

Quoted:

Quoted:
Modern medicine is an amazing thing
Even in squarebanks it is amazing what they are able to do pre/peri/post natal

If it was my child I would be going through the same struggles you are, believe me.
You just have to trust that things will turn out for the best.

Please, as I am sure I speak for all of us, let us know what you need.  Dont ask, just say the word.


If it was up to me being so damn drunk as I am I'd say a big gun so I could get it all over with.  But  I know in the end that's not the right answer: my wife needs me as does our little boy John.  Thank you for your continued support, that is what will sustain me through this trial.  I know I need to be there for my family and help lead them down the best path I can establish.  I'm working my ass off trying to find a solution.  I know we've got 3-9 months of NICU ahead of us if John survives the delivery.  We can make it.


Each day is a new day
Each day is a day that your son and your wife need you (and you need them)
Take things one day at a time.  
You are blessed by this.  Atleas knowing about it ahead of time allows you to ensure that the best medical care is lined up and you have a chance to educate yourself to make important informed decisions.
Stay strong
My cell if you need anything, need to rant, or need a shoulder is 378-9768.  Call anytime.  I feel for you, I really do.  
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 1:32:56 AM EDT
[#9]
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 2:06:00 AM EDT
[#10]
Prayers on the way.
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 7:34:38 AM EDT
[#11]
You already know how I feel.
I'm only a phone call away.

~R
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 10:07:00 AM EDT
[#12]
Prayer sent.
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 11:21:04 AM EDT
[#13]
Nik,

Going through the birth of my daughter, our first, I realized that we are in control of nothing.  For a guy that likes to be in control this was hard for me to get over.  It was even tough the the second time around with my son.  Everything is completely out of your hands...  The only thing you can do is deal with the situation at hand.  This situation is not a result of anything you guys did wrong.  Things like this happen man... you'll get through it.

If you need anything let us know.  
~Turk
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 11:52:08 AM EDT
[#14]
Prayers sent out for your Little Guy and your Family!!!!
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 1:19:11 PM EDT
[#15]
DG, you are a whole lot better at explaining things than I am.  I sat staring at a blank screen for a while trying to say what you are saying but could not without sounding like an asshole.

Nik, A friend of mine from highschool did something permanent after his child was stillborn.  I know that this situation is stressful and it hurts, but no matter the outcome, doing something now that prevents you from trying again is foolish.  I know you are just trying to vest some emotion, but I don't think you need to even look down that road, there is no need.  

If you need anything I am here, and my Wife is here as well.  I feel for you but I really feel for your lady and she needs you to be all there right now.  Your wifey is what is important now and you need to be strong for her.  Seeing you stress makes it doubly hard on her.  Be her protector and comfort.  You are going to have to cry later on.  That is part of our burden as men.  
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 3:35:12 PM EDT
[#16]
I know I am new here, but if there is anything you need, please let me know.
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 3:46:29 PM EDT
[#17]
prayers sent.
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 3:56:24 PM EDT
[#18]
I missed the other thread .
Prayers sent . Shodwblade is right . I know it sucks , but tipping back the bottle right now is not the best thing you can do .


Link Posted: 7/20/2008 5:20:12 PM EDT
[#19]
I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 7:34:29 PM EDT
[#20]
Prayers sent.
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 9:13:06 PM EDT
[#21]
prayer sent.
Link Posted: 7/20/2008 11:10:21 PM EDT
[#22]
I will pray for you and your family.
Link Posted: 7/21/2008 10:41:54 AM EDT
[#23]
Thank you guys, you all are great friends.  I had my feel sorry for myself time & never again; I've got a job to do.  Today is being spent on the phone (I'm on hold with insurance right now) and getting things in order for our evening flight to Denver.  I'll keep you all updated as time goes on.  Right now it looks like we'll try to keep little John "cooking" away inside momma as long as possible.  Because Anchorage doesn't have an ECMO machine (heart/lung bypass for babies) we will most likely deliver at Children's in Denver.
Link Posted: 7/21/2008 11:32:26 AM EDT
[#24]
Good call on outside care

If you need someone to babysit your guns/ammo/booze/cigars/sports cars/anything else cool
Im your guy

Im glad to hear that you have focused your energy

You are in all of our prayers
Link Posted: 7/21/2008 12:02:13 PM EDT
[#25]
prayers sent
Link Posted: 7/21/2008 5:15:19 PM EDT
[#26]
Prayers sent if you need anything let me know
Link Posted: 7/21/2008 11:14:40 PM EDT
[#27]
We are here for you, whatever you need.
Link Posted: 7/22/2008 1:27:21 AM EDT
[#28]
Best of wish to you all. I will hope and pray everything will be fine.
Link Posted: 8/21/2008 10:04:06 AM EDT
[#29]
Updated on Pg. 1 for any non-Team Alaska members.  Thanks again guys for all the calls, IM's, emails, prayers, and thoughts; we really appreciate it!
Link Posted: 8/21/2008 10:56:30 AM EDT
[#30]
You already know I only want the best for the three of you.

If I can help in anyway, you have my number.

~R
Link Posted: 8/21/2008 12:11:15 PM EDT
[#31]
We lost one last fall and know the pain that can bring.  Praying your little one gets here safely.
Link Posted: 8/21/2008 12:58:55 PM EDT
[#32]

Quoted:
We lost one last fall and know the pain that can bring.  


I sure am sorry to hear that  My wife is getting a dose of reality herself as a friend she made with a CDH baby delivered 4 days ago and their little boy died yesterday
Link Posted: 8/21/2008 1:53:18 PM EDT
[#33]
Jimminy Crickets dude!  That's devastating.  I didn't know till now.  Absolutely all my wishes and hopes that your child and family gets through this crisis.  Perhaps instead of a fire sale, raffles might bring in more.  I am already working on a potential donation...
Link Posted: 8/21/2008 8:07:59 PM EDT
[#34]
Prayers are on the way.

Let us know if you need anything. From donations to just being able to talk...were here for when and if you need anything. Keep us updated. I have faith the little guy will pull through.
Link Posted: 8/21/2008 10:41:57 PM EDT
[#35]
Keep your collective chins up and stay strong . If you need anything let us all know.


Rick the Plumber
Link Posted: 8/22/2008 1:47:56 AM EDT
[#36]
Ak_Mike, along the same lines you were thinking on the Specialty Pistols website where I usually hang out someone had some real bad need so the forum owner opened up a new page where people donated things and then people could make bids on them.  Wonder if we could do something like that here?
Link Posted: 8/22/2008 3:43:18 AM EDT
[#37]
I'm sure something could be setup.  I've been involved with a few raffles for people in need on AR15.com where various members and even businesses have donated raffle items so I know those can happen as well.
Link Posted: 8/22/2008 9:57:03 AM EDT
[#38]
Hey guys you are all great  Ar15-sweetie and Striker have a tacked donation thread over in team but nothing in general discussion.  Ar15-sweetie is of course available via IM or email at [email protected] (also the paypal address).  I know many have been donating via paypal and some without accounts have been sending checks; simply amazing.  Everyone here in Alaska has been so fantastic I can't have you guys going to any more trouble; just know that we really appreciate your thoughts & prayers greatly!

As to all my toys they didn't go away in a fire sale.  That's another area that people here have been fantastic in; they insisted on paying fair price even though they knew I was over a barrel.  I've been able to sell the majority of my toys, ammo, new travel trailer, laptop, etc. without any trouble.  I actually began selling some items when I found out we were pregnant just in case anything went wrong (but I was thinking bed rest as the worst case).
One couple from the lower 48 bought my travel trailer and insisted that I keep it until they come to visit; then we can give them a guided tour around Alaska.  When they leave we are to keep it in excellent condition, get lots of use out of it, and then take them around the next time they make it into the state...I didn't know what to say!

Anyway I just got off the phone with one of the Dr's at Children's and they said even with the stomach up now they still want to deliver at term if at all possible, so Megan's flight is still Sept. 5th for Denver.

Again thank you to everyone and a special thank you to an Alaska member (don't want to embarrass anyone) who donated enough miles for a round trip ticket for me to Denver; I'll be forever grateful  
Link Posted: 8/22/2008 9:59:56 AM EDT
[#39]
Wow, that couple from the lower 48 sound like the kind of folks that we want moving up and staying in Alaska

Top notch!
Link Posted: 8/28/2008 6:50:46 PM EDT
[#40]

Quoted:
Hey guys you are all great  Ar15-sweetie and Striker have a tacked donation thread over in team but nothing in general discussion.  Ar15-sweetie is of course available via IM or email at [email protected] (also the paypal address).  I know many have been donating via paypal and some without accounts have been sending checks; simply amazing.  Everyone here in Alaska has been so fantastic I can't have you guys going to any more trouble; just know that we really appreciate your thoughts & prayers greatly!

As to all my toys they didn't go away in a fire sale.  That's another area that people here have been fantastic in; they insisted on paying fair price even though they knew I was over a barrel.  I've been able to sell the majority of my toys, ammo, new travel trailer, laptop, etc. without any trouble.  I actually began selling some items when I found out we were pregnant just in case anything went wrong (but I was thinking bed rest as the worst case).
One couple from the lower 48 bought my travel trailer and insisted that I keep it until they come to visit; then we can give them a guided tour around Alaska.  When they leave we are to keep it in excellent condition, get lots of use out of it, and then take them around the next time they make it into the state...I didn't know what to say!

Anyway I just got off the phone with one of the Dr's at Children's and they said even with the stomach up now they still want to deliver at term if at all possible, so Megan's flight is still Sept. 5th for Denver.

Again thank you to everyone and a special thank you to an Alaska member (don't want to embarrass anyone) who donated enough miles for a round trip ticket for me to Denver; I'll be forever grateful  


Thanks so much for adding the info in the Alaska Hometown forum I am waiting on an email back from site staff on an auction due to an email that I received from another member that has some nice things that he wants to have auctioned and the funds go to Nik, Megan and John Michael.  As soon as I know what is going on I will IM those that have asked about this type of donation help for the family.  

I am trying the best to keep up with all I can but was out of Internet until this evening due to Tropical Storm Fay that hit last week twice hear in FL were I live to finish my AA degree so that I can get into a Nurse Mid-Wife program because that is were my heart is to be a Mid-Wife I love helping women that are pregnant and that is why when I herd what the Larson's were going through that I needed to help in more than just the medical advice that I can give.
Link Posted: 8/28/2008 9:58:43 PM EDT
[#41]
NIko,

If you need airmiles donated, let me know....we might be able to get some on here to donate miles so you can fly to Denver free.  If we can get enough collected then you can maybe get at least a few free trip out of the deal.  Let me know .............

Roger

PS sorry for being out of the loop for awhile.
Link Posted: 8/28/2008 11:55:58 PM EDT
[#42]
Ar15-sweetie and Striker

If you ever make it up this way, you will have many friends waiting for you.

Thanks for doing what you do.

Ripak
Link Posted: 8/31/2008 12:54:56 PM EDT
[#43]

Quoted:
Ar15-sweetie and Striker

If you ever make it up this way, you will have many friends waiting for you.

Thanks for doing what you do.

Ripak


Thanks so much everyone.  My fiancée Bloodmoon and I both want to move to Alaska and are looking forward to the day that we can get their.  My cousins grew up in Anchorage and I always wanted to go visit them but my folks did not want to.  Their dad still lives their to this day.

Thanks
Sweety
Link Posted: 8/31/2008 1:00:54 PM EDT
[#44]

Quoted:

Quoted:
Ar15-sweetie and Striker

If you ever make it up this way, you will have many friends waiting for you.

Thanks for doing what you do.

Ripak


Thanks so much everyone.  My fiancée Bloodmoon and I both want to move to Alaska and are looking forward to the day that we can get their.  My cousins grew up in Anchorage and I always wanted to go visit them but my folks did not want to.  Their dad still lives their to this day.

Thanks
Sweety

Come on up, when the timing is right.
Link Posted: 9/3/2008 6:52:23 AM EDT
[#45]
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