I'm Riding For

Dylan

I’m riding for my nephew Dylan, who spent 14 years living his life to the fullest even though he was battling cancer (and the nasty side affects from years of “adult based” chemotherapy and radiation). At 19 months he was diagnosed with “Bilateral Retinoblastoma”- cancer in both eyes. He fought and won that battle after 6 years of intensive protocols, the loss of his left eye and 0/400 vision. Within a few years, osteosarcoma in his left upper arm was found. Once again he endured the surgery and harsh chemotherapy. Through all this, he continued his schooling, his hobbies and spending as much time socializing with his friends. Unfortunately, at the age of 14, Dylan’s cancer metastasized into his lungs, followed by numerous surgeries over 18 months. After his courageous fight to beat this disease, Dylan passed away at the age of 16. That was May 29, 2008 and whenever I think of him, I remember his wit, smiles, hugs and unselfishness. His cancer did not define him!