May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month, (local video)

Dear Friends,

May also marks two years since my son, Alex, was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor. We have learned so much and encountered many blessings during this journey. While Alex’s recovery has been ongoing, we are grateful for the fact that he still remains tumor-free and thriving. Watch the video of our story.

We incorporated the Raymond A. Wood Foundation (RAWF) as a 501(c)(3) at the end of last year after we met the chief of pediatric endocrinology at CHOP at Alex's routine endocrine appointment. He wanted to know all about the iSTAT handheld blood analyzer — the device we use to monitor Alex’s blood sodium levels. Typically this device is used in hospital ERs and he was not aware of people using it at home. He asked us if it was okay to let other endocrine doctors know about this possibility. In turn, I ended up talking with pediatric endocrine doctors all over the nation and families who wanted to know more about how we use the iSTAT. 

Long story short, this moved us to action. We felt like it was time to find a way to pay it forward. With the iSTAT there are roadblocks to getting this device — accessibility and cost. By setting up a foundation, we have way to work with distributors of the iSTAT to directly purchase the device since the iSTAT is not sold for home use. Secondly, with supporters like you, we are able to raise funds to provide devices or match grants to get these devices to patients that need them.

Alex has not been hospitalized in the last year since we had the iSTAT which has been extremely important in his recovery from the trauma of his initial treatment. We are better able to manage his sodium levels and found the optimal sodium level for his overall well-being. 

Many families in our situation start foundations — this is not a new concept. In the brain tumor world, most foundations that are dedicated to much needed research which we absolutely support. But there are challenges in the ongoing care for patients after treatment. The iSTAT is just one part of the bigger picture of helping these warriors "survive survival."

How can you help? We have lots of opportunities in May during Brain Tumor Awareness Month. Buy a shirt, make a donation or choose RAWF when shopping on Amazon Smile. Our goal is to get the first iSTAT out to a patient in September 2017 for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. We are well on our way.

Thank you and God bless!

Amy Wood, Director