Ready for Christmas

We are all ready for Christmas and the New Year holidays. Nick continues to do great and is really having a great time. He is amazing as he never is down and never even mentions New York. It is if he has already blocked it out of his mind. Of course, we have to go back in January for the dreaded testing process but he knows it is just something he has to do.

The main reason for this post is that I wanted to relay a letter from Dr. Cheung regarding HU-3f8. It is becoming a reality thanks to the Band of Parents and all of you who contributed. Also, this article appeared in an Australian paper about a boy we have seen on the 9th floor and whose parents are part of the BOP. It makes us even more appreciative to be spending our Christmas at home. These are the stories that tear at my heart and caused me to get involved in the BOP.

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,22961706-2862,00.html

------------------Letter from Dr. Cheung-------------------

Dear Mr. Lindberg: (President of the BOP)

I want to share some good news regarding the 3F8 initiative. We have obtained a commitment from a biotechnology company that provides both mission and experience to develop the 3F8 mouse antibody program. With their expertise and input, I expect the 3F8 chimerization and 3F8 humanization to rapidly move forward.

This development is a direct result of the inspiration provided by all of the families and children across the nation in our care. We thank you for your passion, determination, and energizing efforts that uniquely helped to accelerate this initiative and make this possible.

You have collectively and literally moved "mountains" and have given many something to be thankful for over the holidays. As we bring in the year 2008, your "magic" has only just begun. Please share this note with all who have helped bring us to this step. I will be providing a more detailed update in an evening meeting planned for January 24, 2008.

On behalf of all of us at MSKCC, I wish you all a peaceful and loving holiday season.

Thanks,
Dr. Cheung