I'm Just Burnin'

One of the many fascinating things about Chad’s recovery has been his ability to recall certain memories in the most minute detail. It is as if the removal of the tumor cleared pathways to parts of the brain that normal people – mere mortals – cannot typically access.

Several weeks ago he remembered a detailed scene from Don’t Tell Mom, the Babysitter’s Dead, which no one (including Chad) has seen in at least 15 years. Immediately after surgery when it was difficult for him to remember his own name, he remembered the names of obscure species of fish, information no doubt accumulated throughout his nearly two-decade career with PetSmart.

He laments that it is all of the useless stuff that comes back so easily, like the names of Christopher Cross songs and vulgar quotes from the Howard Stern Show. (By the way, I am thrilled about his ability to reference the latter; Shannon is not so thrilled.) But regardless of which memories and skills return and how fast, he is continuing to make progress on all fronts. He works diligently each day to bring his new and improved brain back up to speed.

Chad also remembers that his favorite Pointer Sisters song is “Neutron Dance,” which I must admit is a sound choice. Except he remembered the video as well, which is nothing short of superhuman. Now you can remember it too:





Weren't those the days, when you could just dance around in a movie theatre and call it a music video?! Good times.

And Chad starts treatment today. Let’s wish him well.

Jaime

An Open Letter to Chad and Shannon

Dear Chad and Shannon,

This blog was conceived in an effort to centralize communications just after Chad’s initial diagnosis and surgery, when you were being inundated with calls and texts and visits. We wanted you to focus on healing and not feel like slaves to the phone.

From the beginning I never doubted that you both were loved and admired by many, but the readership of this blog has still been surprising.

Were you aware that you had friends all across the country, and indeed all over the world? Hundreds of people are reading your blog each week, from such exotic places as Canada and the US Virgin Islands. One very strange dude checks up on your progress from a far-off and olde tymey land called Windsor, England. And you have friends and family checking in from Florida, New Jersey, Colorado, Texas, Oregon, North Carolina, and surprise! Um... Surprise (Arizona).

You are so loved. Many prayers are being said in your honor, all over the world. So let’s beat this thing, okay? I think we can.

Love,

Jaime

Radiate This

Chad was scheduled to begin chemotherapy and radiation on Monday, but the start of his treatment has been delayed to early next week. There is no negative reason for this; Chad’s doctors simply want to be certain that the treatment will be focused for the best possible result, to arrest any possible cancer regrowth.

Shannon says that the doctors are spending quality time with Chad’s MRIs to make sure that when radiation is ultimately administered, it will be focused at the best possible angles and from the most effective directions.

In the meantime, Chad is busy retraining his brain and watching Anchorman.

More soon.

Jaime

For Those About to Poke(r), We Salute You

Do you love to gamble your money and your pride, but your paychecks are signed by someone other than PetSmart? You too can participate in the Chad Fights Back Poker Tournament!

But. It is extra important that Amber has the registration forms of non-employees well in advance, so they (we) can be on the list to be allowed into the building on a Saturday.

You know you want to.

Do Not Delay

I’m sure many of you plan to participate in the Chad Fights Back Poker Tournament but you’re so super busy you haven’t yet completed a registration form or sent in your entry fee. Or you’re waiting for payday. Or you think you might be able to rig up a hot date for that afternoon so you’re leaving your options open.

Help a brother/sister out and register today.

Registering early ensures your butt has a place to reside during the event. Your confirmed registration also allows the crack team coordinating this effort, led by the superindustrious Amber, to effectively plan for maximum poker fun.

Amber tells me there are some fabulous prizes, by the way. Everyone’s being very generous. I’ll post information about the prizes later this week.

As a reminder, the event takes place Saturday, April 11, 2009 from 2pm to 5pm at the PetSmart Corporate Office. The flyer and registration form can be found within the post from March 22, 2009.

Do it.

Jaime

Commentia II

Several of you have asked how to leave a comment on this blog:

This blog allows for anonymous comments, meaning you don't have to have a googlemail or blogger account to post a message to Chad and Shannon.

After an individual post, you'll see a link that reads: "0 comments" or "14056 comments" or whatever number represents the number of comments people have left thus far. Click on that link and any post-related comments will be revealed.

At the end of any previously posted messages, you'll see "post a comment" with a box underneath. Simply type a message and click "post comment."

Voila. :)

Jaime

Register Today

Said I would post this on Friday and didn't... I even promised! Sorry, here it is.

Amber and the PetSmart team have coordinated a fantastic event, to take place Saturday, April 11, 2009 from 2pm to 5pm at the PetSmart Corporate Office. Please participate if you can.

Anyone interested in playing poker or serving as a dealer for the event should return a completed registration form as soon as possible. Same goes for anyone who isn't interested in playing the game but who might like to attend, or for anyone who'd simply like to make a donation - this form is for you as well.
Please contact Amber with any questions about the event, and thank you for supporting our friends Chad and Shannon!

Jaime

Click on either image to load it in its true size.