What started as a happy family reunion in Minnesota to show off the new baby has turned into a heart-wrenching bedside vigil for Palmerston North parents Sarah and Edan Meyer.
Five-month-old Degen has spent a month in intensive care in Cincinnati Children’s Hospital fighting liver cancer, and the family’s plans are on hold.
The couple’s first child showed signs of constipation and a distended tummy last month while visiting his grandparents, and after a biopsy confirmed a cancerous tumour, he was rushed to Cincinnati on September 16.
About 40 per cent of his liver had to be surgically removed, and he has now begun a 28-week course of chemotherapy.
The couple’s friend back in Palmerston North, Nicola Reid, is turning her worry into action, organising fundraising to help the family through the devastating change of fortune.
“Our babies were born on the same day, we had the same midwife. Our Micah is just lovely, and Degen is so sick. He should be sitting up and gurgling, just crying about cutting teeth.”
Mrs Reid said it was a comfort, at least, to know that Degen was in one of the best places in the world to get the best chance of successful treatment. Early CT scans have shown some improvements.
At this stage nobody knows how long the Meyers will stay in Cincinnati, or whether they will be able to continue Degen’s treatment back in New Zealand at some stage.
“But what we’re hoping to do is to keep up the mortgage payments, and keep paying their bills back here for as long as they need.”
Mr Meyer, a diesel mechanic, is on extended leave from his work in Palmerston North. His mother, Jill, flew to Cincinnati to offer her support with help from the Rongotea Lions Club.
Degen’s other grandparents, Leroy and Sylvia Thorstad, live in Minnesota and have stayed close by their grandson through the ordeal.
“We would hope that the more people that know about this poor wee boy, the more people can send healing thoughts and prayers to the team in Ohio,” said Mrs Reid.
There will be a benefit evening to support the family on December 1 at the Convention Centre featuring Wellington fashion stylist Lisa O’Neil, with an auction and raffle to follow.
“Already we have felt the community’s reaction to the Meyers’ plight and it is humbling; people and businesses are being incredibly generous.”
Anyone who wants to help can contact Mrs Reid on 355 2634 or email kelly@midwife4u.co.nz
