Addison Whipple is a twin from Pleasant Hill. Doctors detected a mass in Addison’s stomach while in for a normal screening in November. Soon after, Addison’s parents learned the mass was made up of three tumors; Stage 4 Neuroblastoma. Addison went under a bone marrow transplant at the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital.
Addison’s mom, Joan, said she expected a challenge when she found out she was having twins. But having one twin healthy and the other fighting for life has been exceptionally difficult. Children’s Miracle Network has made things a little easier on their family, providing music therapy for kids in the hospital. Joan says listening to music has become one of Addison’s favorite things to do.
Both of my daughters have been featured during the marathon for Children’s Miracle Network as Ken and Colleen’s Kids. Addison is doing great and turns three today. Ashlyn, featured last year, unfortunately died due to complications of her stem cell transplant. Although it is difficult to write this, I do want to mention it because I was very impressed with the DJs at Star 102.5. Big Ken came to Ashlyn’s visitation and told us that Colleen wanted to come but was out of town. We also received a plant from Star. This tells me that to them it is a personal commitment rather than just a fundraising effort. Wishing you success, I know that Children’s Miracle Network provides a great deal for the patients and parents at the hospital. I know we were very thankful for all they provided.
Again, wishing you success
-Joan Whipple
