Big pizza. No so much.

What kind of bird is this for?

View from the hotel

Finally made it to Beijing!

Well, we finally made it to China! Interesting place! Susana, the patient liaison from Beike who met us at the airport, is usually the liaison for Spanish speaking clients. She was having a little trouble with English, so Sean was able to converse with her in Spanish. To land in China and have a conversation in Spanish twenty minutes later was... disorienting (get it? Dis-ORIENTing? Hahaha - oh, I crack myself up). We drove to the hospital where Brian is staying (about a 40 minute ride). Chinese traffic is completely insane. The traffic lines painted on the road are clearly what they do with extra paint, since the lines clearly have no function. You just drive wherever there's an opening. Whoever honks their horn the most wins.

The hospital is very different than what you might expect in a western country. There are about ten buildings in the medical complex; each has a different function. There's no dietary services, so if Brian wants to eat, Shane, Sean & Grainne must get it for him. So our patient liaison, Michelle, took Grainne & Sean to the Chinese version of WalMart, called Lotte Mart. That was an experience! Michelle glanced over at a package of some sort of meat Sean was inspecting and exclaimed with delight "Oooh! Donkey meat!" 

Um... ooookaaayyyy. Another package of food that seemed like it would be okay turned out to be "sour cabbage flavor ramen noodles." So we picked up some cereal, veggies, yogurt, sodas, eggs, bread, tea & beer. We'll all probably be a good bit skinnier when we get home.

In Brian's building, we've met several other families from all over the world who are also seeking stem cell treatment. We've met three families, one from the USA, one  from Colombia and one from Iraq. Everyone is very friendly and supportive of one another. One couple asked us out to a restaurant with them the first day, but we were still a bit discombobulated from our journey, so we just took it easy the first day. Two doctors came to evaluate Brian also, and explained that they would be ordering some routine tests for the next day.

This morning, right on the dot of 8 am, the doctor was back with the entire nursing staff. It was quite impressive. Every nurse that would be on duty was briefed on Brian's condition, symptoms and the plan of treatment. They gave us an opportunity to ask questions also. The doctor seems very positive that stem cells will help Brian's muscle tone and movement on his left side. They also are hopeful that his vision will improve, but they said that visual improvement would likely be slower than his motor and muscle results. Ten minutes later (and when they say "ten minutes" they mean ten minutes!) two nurses and one of the liaisons was back to accompany Brian for his tests. Sean also went with Brian. The tests were in another building, the one that looks like a Western hospital. The walls and floor were literally sparkling. It was huge, and very efficient. First stop was phlebotomy, where they drew some blood for lab tests. Then on to the EKG office for that (sinus bradycardia, if you're interested), then to see an ophthamologist. The ophthamologist was an elderly Chinese woman. Though we couldn't understand her Mandarin, she exuded an impressive pride in her work and instilled confidence. After her exam, we were off to get a chest x-ray. The radiology tech was very particular about positioning Brian properly for the x-ray. 

After the tests were done, Brian & Sean took a stroll around the grounds of the complex. There's a huge man-made river or pond, maybe almost a mile long with fountains and gardened islands. The river is filled with beautiful koi; some appear to be nearly two feet long. There are several decorative pavilions among the gardens lining the river, lovely places to relax and enjoy the sound of the fountains. Cicadas are in season here, much as they are in New Orleans, and the constant drone of their buzzing is a comforting reminder of home. Near Brian's building is what we're calling "Church Alley," a small road with a mosque, a synagogue, a Christian church, an Orthodox church and a Buddhist temple. The temple was open when we passed by, and here are some pictures of it, along with a few pics we've taken so far. The sound of Oriental meditational music and the smell of incense was intoxicating. Definitely something to see again.

So far, so good. No tragedies or problems with travel (by the way, Lufthansa is outstanding in the service they gave to Brian!). China is a fascinating place, and huge! You could literally land a plane in the parking lot. Folks that say everything's bigger in Texas have obviously not been to China. There's over a billion people here but everything is so spread out and big that it seems empty. Except the Chinese WalMart, there were loads of people there.

By the way, another China-sized THANK YOU to Brian's latest donors!

Eve N. (Limerick, Ireland) - $15.00

Anne D. (New Jersey, USA) - $250.00

Laura R. (Louisiana, USA) - $50.00

By the way, Blogger, Facebook & Twitter are prohibited in China. This update is being emailed to the website, so I hope it gets posted. Feel free to contact any of us via email! We'd love to hear about the goings-on back home! Stay tuned for more! Here's some pics!

Front page news!

Well, today is the last day in Ireland before Brian leaves for China! He and his family will be very busy packing, picking up last-minute items, and of course driving to the airport tomorrow. We'll be leaving from Dublin airport, about a 2 hour drive from Limerick.
We were all surprised this morning to find Brian had made front-page news in the Limerick Leader! Nevis called to say he was on the front page and Grainne rushed out to the shop and bought four copies. She said she'll be giving one of them to our airplane pilot tomorrow! Fair play to her.
The story's not available on the website just yet, but here's a snapshot of the paper:

Also, a huge "thank you" to Brian's latest donor's:

Haley B. (New Orleans, La) - $15.00
Jeff S. (New Orleans, La) - $100.00
Ann Marie B. & Family (Nottingham, UK) - $1000.00

Stay tuned for more updates. We're not really sure how much we'll be able to access this blog in China due to internet censorship there, but we'll do our best. Thank you for reading, and send Brian your prayers, best wishes and good vibes!

Brian's farewell party in Limerick

Brian has a few days to go before he leaves for China, but he had his farewell party this week. Www.ILoveLimerick.com posted photos on the internet, and you can click here for a link to their Facebook page on which you can see the festivities yourself!

Here's Brian and his family at the party. Stay tuned for more!

From left to right: Jonathan's wife Natalie, Siobhan, Jonathan, Phil, Brian (the man himself!), Brian Senior, Grainne, Nevis & Shane

The Great China Adventure - Part 1!

Well, at long last all of Brian's waiting for stem cells will soon be complete! As of today, 6 July, Brian's sister Grainne arrived safe and sound in Ireland in preparation for her trip to China with Brian! She's very happy to be visiting with Brian and the rest of her family after so long away, living in the USA.

The next part of the adventure begins next week when Sean, Grainne's husband, will arrive in Ireland also!  After only a couple days in the Emerald Isle, Sean will escort Brian along with Grainne and Shane to Dublin, where they leave for their flight to Beijing! Stay tuned for more updates!

Also, many, many thanks to Brian's latest donors! As we said before, your donations are what enable Brian to get his stem cell therapy and continue his ongoing care! A thousand thanks for all who have donated and for all those yet to do so! You are quite literally giving Brian and his family hope!

A huge thank you to Brian's latest donors:
Shelly O. (Cork, Ireland) - $40.00
Joanne H. (London, UK) - $25.00
Mark R. (New Orleans, USA) - $10.00
Elizabeth M. (Dublin, Ireland) - $125.00

If only a blog could convey the deepest gratitude we all feel for every one of you! Thank you!

Keep checking for more updates!

More...

Many thanks to Brian's latest donors!

Barbara G. (Ireland) - $10.00
Tracey S. (N.Y, USA) - $50.00
Natasha B. (Ireland) - $50.00

Every penny that everyone contributes goes to Brian and his care and is received with the utmost gratitude and appreciation!

At the moment, we're basically just waiting for the time to come for Brian to head to China for his stem cell therapy. It will be quite an adventure! We'll be leaving Ireland on Lufthansa airlines for Beijing on July 17 for 3 weeks of treatment. Beike informed us that instead of Shijiazhuang, he will be treated at a brand-new facility in Beijing City! This comes as a pleasant surprise, because he won't have an additional 4 to 6 hour ride to Shijiazuang after a 20 hour plane trip! You can see the website for the new facility here: http://en.yandahospital.com/en/.

The plan is Brian will leave Ireland and travel to China with his brother Shane, his sister Grainne, and Grainne's husband Sean. Sean is a Registered Nurse and will carry some sedatives to help Brian sleep and relax during the long flight. You probably know how irritating a long airplane trip is; you can imagine how unsettling it would be for someone with blindness and a brain injury!

One of our group will stay with Brian in his hospital room while the other two spend the nights in a hotel which is attached to the hospital. Brian will have a busy schedule of tests, physical therapy, and of course stem cell injections. There are plans for a variety of injection methods, including intra-arterial, intravenous, and via lumbar puncture. The doctors in China will be evaluating which methods will be best for Brian.

After a couple of weeks in China, Brian's brother Jonathan and his sister Nevis will come to Beijing and act as "relief" for Shane, Sean and Grainne. Everyone is looking forward to the sights, sounds, and especially trying new food! Sean will be particularly interested in the nursing methods used there. The brochure we read advises Westerners to not be surprised if symptoms like pain or nausea aren't immediately treated with medications. Apparently, medication is used as a last resort. Instead, techniques such as massage, acupuncture, music, therapeutic touch and other non-pharmaceutical interventions are primary methods of controlling discomfort. That should be fascinating to learn! And of course, everyone is eager to see what results the stem cell treatment will have on Brian. Any sort of return of vision or mobility will be a huge blessing!

Brian's treatment is expected to continue until August 7, after which we'll all travel back to Ireland and Brian will no doubt have a new regimen of physical therapy and sessions at Headway Ireland, who have been absolutely stellar in working with him. There's no doubt that Brian will continue to require care, so your contributions via this website or Brian's fund in Ireland will continue to be a vital part of his recovery! Again, many thanks for previous donors and future ones!

Also, if you know anyone in the media who might be able to publicize Brian's case, feel free to forward them this website to get the word out there! Corporate sponsorship of Brian's treatment and recovery is also welcome, and a great opportunity for a positive "P.R. image"! So if you or someone you know might be able to help in that way, by all means, encourage them to do so!

Keep checking here for more updates! We'll be keeping you informed frequently on what's going on while we're in China!

The Final Countdown!

Brian and his brother Jonathan Hogan.

Hello all!

The customary apology for being a slacker goes without saying.  Let's not beat a dead horse, though.  Life just got in the way!

Exciting things happening for Brian.  He's no longer at Beech Lodge.  It served it's purpose, but he's much happier in his new "habitat" (as he calls it).  He's now in Clare Castle. The facility is a type of group home for people who have suffered a brain injury.  It's an amazing place, and Brian is keeping everyone entertained!  It's also close to the airport - in case he decides to run away!

Brian has been doing really well.  He attends "Headway" 2 1/2 days a week (Mon, Tues, and half day on Wed). He's receiving continued education.  He's way too smart (and hyper) to sit in one spot for too long, and as he says "my mind races all day long - might as well give it somewhere to go"!  Sleep isn't on his agenda, unless it's bed time.  "You can sleep when you're dead" he says.  True, true.  Brian has also been busy visiting schools and talking to young people about his experience.  You'd be hard pushed to find a dry eye in the house.  He said "when I hear them snivel and blow their noses - I know I've done my job

Our originally planned stem cell treatment in the US (close to New Orleans) didn't work out, so we're going somewhere else.  We're super excited, and hope you will send good thoughts Brian's way.  We're off to Beijing, China!!

We leave Ireland mid-July, and return around August 7.  Thanks to everyone who contributed to fundraising - Brian will receive several stem cell infusions in that 3 week period.  Thank you all!

A lot of our friends have been asking "what can we do to help".  Well - a million dollars and private jet would be very helpful, but we're shooting for the attainable here.  How about a "letter to Brian".  That way - we can read a letter (or more) a day while we're out of the country.  Just something encouraging, something funny.  Brian loves to have letters read to him.  I'm sure he'll ask for them to be read over and over.  Receiving any kind of treatment is scarey, so if you could encourage him, that would be much appreciated. 

If you can - shoot me an email, or drop me a note for Brian.  I'll be keeping everything until we're at our destination.  We'll also be keeping a blog while we're away, so be sure to check it out as much as possible.  Remember - mid-July to the first week in August will be the treatment dates.  That's a lot of days.  There are over 200 people on this email list.  Surely we can gather more than a letter a day!  We'll have internet access while there, so if you want to email while we're in China - go for it!

Remember - if Brian can do it - YOU CAN DO IT!

Much love,

Hogan Family

P.S.  My address in the US:

326 Olivier Street

New Orleans, LA 70114

USA

I'll be in Ireland from July 5, if you want to send a note to my parents address:

82 Russell Court

Ballykeefe

Limerick

Ireland

A Lighter Shade of Darkness (Brian's feature in the Limerick Leader.)

(Used with permission.) Click to enlarge.

Brian Hogan Jr. Update - August 18, 2011 "Where Does The Time Go"!

Greetings from 104 in the shade!  That's right.  And don't even get me started with the humidity.

I was thinking of what title to use for this update, but I couldn't think of a good one because there really isn't an update.  Sorry :(  The trouble with updates is that there's an expectation of something new and I have nothing new to report. That's not particularly a bad thing, but we really hoped Brian would be called for Stem Cell treatment before now.  It's not unusual to have hold ups with treatments that are not FDA (Federal Drug Administration) approved.  The FDA can put guidelines on treatment, but until these treatments are FDA approved, they call the shots with facilities such as LifeSource in Covington, Louisiana.  Yes, there are other facilities, but after meeting Dr. Lasala, personally, and getting to read statistics on his treatment, this is probably the best place.  Nothing is set in stone, so if the FDA don't pull their fingers out, we'll go elsewhere.  This "holding pattern" might kill all of us! 

I spent 10 very short days with Brian and the family, in July. I hadn't seen him for 12 months. What a great time! From the minute I booked the flight (which was less than two weeks from departure date), I was super anxious about seeing him.  Seeing him means it all really did happen.  Because I'm not around Brian daily (like the rest of the family), I knew it would be very emotional.  As soon as I pulled my suitcase out to pack, the weeping started.  I don't like flying anyway, but I was always super excited to go home.  The past couple of years, it's been bittersweet.  The plan was to get tougher about this sort of thing, not more emotional.  I figured if I cried as much as I could before I got to Ireland, I would be dried up like a prune.  Wrong.
My parents, Nevis and Shane met me at the airport.  Philly cried, of course.  My Dad seems to be shrinking.  Maybe it's because I've always seen him as the tallest man in the world.  Shane and Nevis looked sun kissed, which didn't match the weather outside the airport at all.  I never mind that it's cool in the summer, but it took me 3 days to figure out how to warm up.  I brought all the wrong clothes.  Thank God for whiskey!  My liver is grateful for the break though.
I flew in on Monday, but Brian thought I was coming on Thursday, so we surprised him (see attached pictures).  I can't describe the reunion.  I'll only cry on my keyboard and possibly short the whole computer!

When Brian asked me to describe the sunset, I thought I would curl into a ball and die.  Instead, I described the colors on an outfit I'd seen in his costume collection.  It had yellows, reds and oranges.  He loved that.  When we went to "Quiet Man Country", about an hour and a half drive from Limerick, Brian said "I wish I could see the countryside, I miss it so much".  The car went silent.  Holly barked (she's a dog), which was a welcome interlude.  We spent the car ride playing "the word association game", and Brian loved it.  He said "anything that keeps my brain moving, must be helping to heal me".  He's loving his books on CD.  He says they transport him to another world, one where he can see.

My parents house was a construction site.  Brian will be moving back home shortly.  His time at Beech Lodge was good for him, but he needs to be home.  My parents are in their 60's (which clearly isn't old), but they can't take care of him full-time.  We'll have to have outside professional care, but it'll be nice for the family to know where he is and who's with him at all times.  One side of our house will be for Brian.  It's beautiful.  I wish he could see it for himself.  He wanted exact details of everything from outlets to door knobs.  Brian's profession was Senior Quantity Surveyor at a very big company, so his job was in construction.  Brian was involved in the management side of construction, but he was in and out of building sites on a pretty regular basis.  He misses his work.  He said "all this sitting around doesn't suit me".  It really doesn't.  Brian was always like a bolt of lightening.  It's hard to watch him in a wheelchair.

Watching my parents and siblings with Brian is amazing.  They all do so much.  There's so much love around the kitchen table, that sometimes it's kinda sticky.  Oh, there are arguments too, but mostly everyone just wants to help as much as possible.  Brian took a nap on the Sunday I was home, and I caught my Mother just watching him from the bedroom door.  When she saw me, she said "doesn't he look perfect, like nothing is wrong"?  I can't imagine being a parent and helplessly watch my child suffer.  Parents must have a special trick for keeping it together, because I'd be in a looney bin by now.
Leaving was hard.  I suppose it's a mixture of sadness and guilt.  I get to "escape", but only physically.  Saying goodbye to Brian was actually easy.  He was happy that I was there, but excited about the next visit.  I don't know how he felt on the inside, but he held it together on the outside, and so did I.  It was just me and my parents at the airport.  Phil started crying as soon as I got in line to check in.  Part of me wanted to say "I'll stay for a few more days", but I would have been postponing the inevitable goodbye.  I think this was the first time my Dad cried when I was leaving.  Crying comes easier for him these days.  For that, I'm very sorry.  I thought I'd never board the plane and when I did, I wanted to squeeze my butt through the tiny window and hug my parents one more time.

Between flights and layovers, I was awake for about 30 hours.  I was tired and emotionally drained.  I had a few days to recoup, but they were sad and lonely.  It's never good to be alone when you're that sad :( I communicated with the family by text only for a week or so.  Hearing their voices just made me sad.  It was great to get back to work, but I felt like I was in a fog for a few days.  I have great friends, though.  I'm a lucky girl.

Brian would love to hear from you (even if he doesn't know/remember you).  Here's his contact info:
Brian Hogan Jr.
82 Russell Court
Ballykeefe, Limerick
Ireland
Phone: 0876554411 (that's inside Ireland)  From the US it's 011353876554411.  From the UK, I'm not sure, but if you're Brian's friend, you'll figure it out!  He misses his UK friends a lot.
Everyone's busy and life just gets in the way sometimes, so if you've been meaning to write or call, do it NOW!!  As Brian says "you'd make a blind, brokenhearted little boy very happy".  If that's doesn't get you, you're stone cold! :)
From all of us, to all of you: Thank you for keeping in touch, your prayers, your cards, your messages.  We're grateful every day.
Hogan Family xx
www.iheartbrian.org

Food, Alcohol and Brian!

If you haven't seen my "Cooking Under the Influence" series on YouTube, I just wanted to share this latest video with you. I gave Brian a big promo; hopefully it will generate a few visits and donations.
Right now we sort of have Brian in a holding pattern; it would be really hard to get him to Louisiana for his stem cell treatment in the summer. It's most expensive for one thing, but worse, it's SO HOT that he would be miserable in the New Orleans heat. Brain-injured people often have a difficult time regulating their body temperature, so we don't want to subject Brian to a potentially dangerous environment. But on the bright side, it gives a little more time to offer your support to help him!
Anyway, here's the video. You can watch the rest of the episodes of "Cooking Under the Influence" on YouTube. Hope you enjoy!

Huge Thanks!

Sorry it's been a while since posting on here. Brian is doing well. As you know, a few weeks ago he suffered a seizure that landed him in hospital for a few days, but he's been out and about and strong as ever. He's busy with physical therapy and "holding court!" Just recently the lads from Hermitage Green performed a private concert for Brian and Beech Lodge! And if you know Brian, there's little he loves more than music and a good ol' sing-song!

The waiting list for his stem cell therapy is taking a little longer than we expected, but Brian is in great spirits and lives for the day when he can see again. Wouldn't you?! So basically we're on cruise control at the moment, waiting for the go ahead. Naturally, it can be difficult, especially since Brian can't see. His family has been a shining example of love, patience and selflessness in taking care of Brian. Everyone has their good days and bad days. But the support that Brian's friends and family have offered will sustain both him and every person around him. Keep up the visits, letters, emails, phone calls, prayers and encouragement to Brian and his family. They are worth more than you can know!

Also, many heartfelt thanks to Brian's latest donors!
Leanne J. (U.K.) - $10.00
Joe G. (USA) - $100.00
Marion & Andrew C. (U.K.) - $290.00

On the strength of fathers, cat scans & Amy Winehouse

Yes, yes, it's time for an update.  I keep waiting for these updates to get easier, but the fact of the matter is: they don't.  I don't want to send updates because it just confirms that there's a reason for an update, and I wish (with all that I am) there was no need to sit and type these.  

Brian suffered a series of seizures on a Saturday morning, a couple of weeks ago.  I was in my kitchen chatting with a friend when the phone rang.  It was Nevis.  Not that it's unusual for Nevis to call, but I knew before I answered the phone that something wasn't right.  "Brian's in the hospital, he's had several seizures, they called 999 and the ambulance brought him to the hospital".  Silence.  It's not how you expect your day to start.  It's too far away to just jump in the car and get there.  I could tell Nevis was worried because she was quieter than her usually perky self.  "Nevis, do I need to come home"?  Silence.  "Should I call and talk to Dad"?  "Yes".  I assured her that seizures happen for a variety of reasons, and that he was being well taken care of now.  I don't remember saying goodbye, but I remember having to sit down because I couldn't feel my knees. 

I called my Dad.  I don't believe in reincarnation, but if I did, I'd want to come back as that man.  What a calm and strong man my Father is.  He really is the voice of reason.  How I wish I'd listened and observed more while growing up.  I remember saying "you don't know everything, Dad".  How ridiculous I was.  He knows his children inside and out.  "Don't panic, they're sending him for a Cat Scan, and we'll know more when the results come back".  He said "Brian is a bit out of sorts and is yelling orders at everyone, so I think he'll be okay".  I said "Dad, should I come home".  "Love, if I was worried, I'd tell you to come home".  That's all I needed to hear.  I'm a pro at booking last minute.  It's the packing that still stresses me out.  While Dad was talking, I was making a list in my head of what to pack.  I remember thinking: darn it, I just packed away a bunch of winter stuff, and now I'll have to pull it out again.  "Wait, I shouldn't come home"?  Dad: "not until I'm worried, love". 

The text message updates were pretty entertaining: He's yelling at anyone who comes close to him to get him something to eat.  He's telling the nurses that he's sick of this place and wants to be released immediately.  You can't keep me against my will.  I'd very much like a yogurt.  I'm dying of thirst here people. 

God bless Siobhan.  She sent me a long FB message giving me the details.  I could almost smell the hospital food.  Unfortunately, Brian couldn't eat anything until after his scan.  He was not a happy boy. :) He was transferred to a private room in the middle of the night.  I'm pretty sure it was because he was being a "challenge".  But the staff quickly fell in love with him, and he was constantly being supervised. 

Pretty funny stuff, but I was uneasy until I called the next morning for an update.  The scan showed some minor bleeding on the outside of the brain.  It was nothing unusual for a patient with a brain injury.  The Doctor said to my Dad "about 10% of the population experience bleeds like this, and they never know it".  I was baffled at that, but what do I know?  10% of the population is certifiably crazy as far as I'm concerned, but we're talking about my brother's brain here.  Obviously something is wrong if he's having a bleed, albeit "minor".  So, they sent him to Cork (about an hour away from Limerick) for an advanced brain scan.  That didn't show anything out of the ordinary (except the obvious damage from the incident in July 2009).  He was kept in the hospital for a few days just for observation, and then released.  Apparently he had several sing songs in the hospital.  Shane said at one stage there were 6 staff members around the bed and they were all singing!

He's back to his "normal" self now.  It's par for the course, I expect.  We'll just have to keep an eye on his temperature and watch for any type of infection, even small ones.  Great - he's now a China doll!

His mood is good.  He's just waiting for the donor approval at LifeSource in Covington, Louisiana.  Once the Stem Cells are procured, and placed in the incubator, we have to get him on a plane!  It'll happen this Spring.  I'm confident of that.  We're all so fortunate to still have him with us, so we'll do whatever it takes to get him here, and get him the best possible treatment for his injuries. 

The first time I spoke to him post "episode", I said "sing me something".  He sang "To Make You Feel My Love".  When he sang  "I'd go hungry, I'd go blind for you, I'd go crawling down the avenue, there is nothing that I wouldn't do, to make you feel my love", I thought I would crumble with sadness.  Then he took a deep breath and said "I'd love a coffee".  Par for the course, I expect.  :)  He knows exactly how to tug at the heart, and isn't afraid to do it.  Oi, such a boy!

The week before his seizures, he had been to his old Secondary (High) School.  The teachers invited him to speak to some of the students about his experience at St. Enda's.  He was a huge hit.  He told stories of how he rode his bike to school, parked it, and always wondered if all the bike parts would be there at the end of the school day. One afternoon, Brian and his friend returned to the bike area only to find his friend's bicycle saddle missing! Get him to tell you the whole story. You'll be doubled over with laughter.  He had the teachers and students laughing and crying. He encouraged the students to make the most of their time in school.  He said "go to College, work hard, be a good person, be proud of your education".  My Mother said she looked at my Father, and giant tears cascaded down his proud cheeks.  Brian didn't need notes or prompting.  He spoke from memory.  He was honest.  He told them to chose their friends wisely, as he had made some bad decisions with friendships in his life, and it's forever changed his future.  Brian makes friends easily, but he encouraged the students to surround themselves with people who would protect them from harm.  We know that unforeseen occurrences befall us all, but we can surround ourselves with the right kinds of people in life.  People who become friends, and who protect us from opportunists.  He told the students to be a good brother, sister, daughter, son, friend.  The students and teachers lined up to meet him afterward.  He was then whisked away to the teachers lounge for coffee and scones.  The school want him to address the whole student body soon.  What an honor.  They're all mad about him, and are diligently fund raising for one of "their own".  It's lovely.  My heart swells with pride. 

In other news: my Mother's brother, Dave Clancy, passed away on Sunday.  I didn't have the pleasure of knowing him well, but my Mother said "he was a gentle man".  As far as I'm concerned, that's golden. I felt a particular kind of sadness for my Mother loosing her brother.  We came way too close to that ourselves.  I only wish I'd known Dave Clancy.  It's terrible to be away from home when all you want to do is throw your arms around someone and have a good cry. I don't want to throw my arms around any random person, and bawl all over them mind you.  I'm particular who I share my runny nose with. My cousin Liz, from NY, sent me facebook pictures of the post- wake trip to the pub (as it was happening). The marvels of modern technology.  Far from the days when you'd have to wait for the postman to bring a letter with all the details. Typical Irish crowd -  mourning in a pub is just a part of it all.  The act of celebrating the life lived is sad but it's also a necessary part of the mourning process.  If you didn't do that, you'd forever be trying to figure out what the blazes was missing. Dave was a Guinness man.  I'm betting the Guinness stocks just went through the roof in the Limerick area.  I raised my glass to Dave Clancy more than once since Sunday.  "Cheers".  xx

As far as I know, there's nothing else to report.  Thank God.  That's enough "excitement" for a while. 

Thank you all for your love and support.  We would be lost without each and every one of you.  The email update list has grown, and while I'm not exactly sure who reads these updates, I suspect it's quiet a few.  A big kiss, hug and squeeze to you all.  For those of you who hit "reply", I read Brian your lovely emails. 


Much love,

Hogan Family  xx

P.S.  If you'd like to send Brian a note, here's the address:

82 Russell Court,
Ballykeefe, Limerick
Ireland

www.iheartbrian.org

 

This picture is of Brian dressed as Amy Winehouse.  I'm pretty sure this wasn't the kind of "rehab" he had in mind!  Great legs!

Latest update & pic of Brian

Below is the latest update on our boy, Brian! Also, just wanted to let you know that for those donors due to receive a copy of "Found Wanting," your book was mailed today! Sorry for the delay (had to wait for a new shipment of books and the mail is slow these days with winter storms galore). Hope you enjoy! Now, on to Brian...

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2011.  Really?  Where does the time go?  I looked back at the first update of 2010, where I promised to keep it short and sweet.  I did. I'm promising the same for this first update of 2011.  Let's see how I do! :)

The last update was pretty exciting, so this one won't be nearly as good, but when it comes to Brian, we're excited about his progress every day.  He's incredible.  I called him yesterday, and he was on the exercise bike.  I'm pretty sure if they clocked him, he'd have biked all the way from Limerick to Australia by now!

We're still waiting on the call from LifeSource, to let us know they've approved the donor cells.  Then, we have 3 weeks to get him into the US.  I'm pretty sure we won't tell him he's getting on a plane until he's about to board, because he gets wild with excitement, and the phones will ring non-stop!  

When I look back at what Brian has accomplished, I'm amazed.  With reports from Siobhan, Nevis, Shane, Jonathan, Mam & Dad, and of course all the fabulous friends and extended family we have, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude.  Everyone just loves visiting him.  He's such a pleasure (most of the time)!  Poor sweetheart had to have his big toenail removed a few weeks ago.  It was ingrown, and he was in pain.  I called Dad to see how it all went down, and Brian did really well.  He didn't feel any pain, and he got antibiotics immediately to avoid the risk of infection.  He said "my toe feels fabulous"!  

If you'd like to drop him a note, he would love it.  There are times when he's bored, and he has someone read and re-read letters and cards.  Sometimes, it's like it's his first time hearing a letter, so his reaction is wonderful, again and again!   I suppose if there is a silver lining to his brain injury, it's that.  

Waiting is the biggest challenge right now.  If you can call or write, he would really appreciate it.  His lovely singing voice is getting better and better, and if you ask, he'll prove it!

The next email won't be too far behind (hopefully).  It should carry good news about Brian's pending visit to New Orleans, Louisiana!

Here's Brian's address:  Make sure you write to Brian Hogan Jr. (my Dad is Brian Hogan Sr.)

82 Russell Court

Ballykeefe,

Limerick

Ireland

His phone number is: 087-655-4411 (that's if you're calling within Ireland).  If you're calling from the US: 011-353-87-544-4411.  If you're calling from the UK, I'm not sure of the codes, but you'll be adding your codes, dropping "0", and using 87-655-4411

Phew!

Thanks for everything.  You're all "on the team", as Brian says!

Much love,

Hogan Family xx

P.S.  This is a picture of one miracle holding Bonnie Mai, another miracle!

Grainne Hogan Fitzmorris Reveals the Big Secret: "The Big Easy!"

Hello Friends, and Family!

We're close to the end of 2010 (thank God), and this update is once again over due.  There doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day!  So, the exciting news is...... Brian will be coming State Side (USA) for his Stem Cell Treatment.  In ALL the research we did (and there was tons), we always leaned towards Stem Cell Facilities that advertise; China, Germany, South America.  We always did a search for "stem cell treatment for ONA (optic nerve atrophy), and we were guided in the directions of the countries above.  One day, a friend of mine (who's a nurse) said "G, I work with a girl, who's possibly having Stem Cell Treatment in Covington".  Covington is a pretty small town, about 35 minutes drive from New Orleans, Louisiana (where I live).  I had heard that TCA or Lifesource existed, but I thought it was just research.  WRONG!  If you go to www.tcaway.com, you'll find out that they are a research facility, but they're also a treatment facility.  


I called immediately, and spoke to Erica.  Erica was so incredibly in tune to what our needs, hopes and aspirations were for Brian (and the rest of us, of course), that I silently cried throughout the conversation.  The facility in Covington is the ONLY facility in the world with the technology to take either your own, or donor stem cells, incubate them, and multiply them to upwards of 50 - 100 million stem cells.  China was guaranteeing upwards of 5 million cells (which seems like a lot), but when you compare it to between 50, and 100 million, there's absolutely no way we're taking "the kid" to China.  As you can imagine, we've all kept it on the down low, because when Brian gets something in his head, he's relentless.  Sean and I made an appointment to visit Lifesource, and I'm pretty sure neither of us slept Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday night.  Our 45 minute journey across Lake Pontchartrain (the longest bridge over water in the world, at 24 miles) seemed never ending.  We've driven that bridge hundreds of times, but this time was different.  We barely spoke to each other (a miracle in itself, if you know me).  I think I was holding my breath for 24 miles.  You know those "special days" when you remember every single detail?  I remember what I was wearing, what purse I was carrying.  I remember how my heels hurt, but I didn't care.  I remember thinking "here we are, and what if Dr. Lasala doesn't like us".  "What if he says "all the way from Ireland, that's a long way to travel for a maybe".  I had practiced all the "conversation stoppers".  I practiced crying (because that's so hard these past months!!!).  I thought, "I'll start crying, and there's no way he'll say "no" to us".  Sean thought I was crazy (or, crazier).


I'd never met Erica before, but when I did, I hugged her like she was my best friend.  She invited us into a room with an examination table, a sink, and a couple of random chairs.  We chatted a little about the weather, and then she said "Dr. Lasala is running about 10 minutes behind, so sit tight".  Sit tight?  I would have sat on a bed of nails, ALL day, just for the opportunity to plead our case.  When Dr. Lasala entered the room, he smiled. Sean and I both stood up, and introduced ourselves.  He was shorter than I anticipated.  I suppose because I'd heard so many good things about him, and our research had always, always been so impressive, that I expected him to be 8 feet tall.  His smile was genuine, and when he sat down, I immediately felt like I was going to cry.  Not because things didn't look so positive, but because I knew he was settling in for a conversation.  In the 20 minute meeting, he never once said "your brother", or "the patient".  He always said "Brian".  You have no idea how important that was to us.  When people (some of them, friends) say "how's your brother", I just want to scream "his name is Brian" (like everyone in the world should know about this incredible boy).  Silly, I  know.  Dr. Lasala was fascinating.  He could tell we had researched Stem Cells.  He knew we knew the job of Stem Cells, and what their potential was.  I could tell he appreciated how much we studied their value to our bodies.  


We told Dr. Lasala that we were willing to give anything a try, not once, but multiple times, because we knew that there were no guarantees.  He smiled when we said "you'll love Brian, he's amazing", and he said "of course".  He always said things like "this is what we'll do", "this is how we'll infuse Brian", "Brian won't be in any pain", etc., etc.  So, from the beginning, we knew Dr. Lasala wanted to help.  He had a difficult time connecting Brian's loss of eyesight with Brian's injury, so he spoke to us about consulting with a Neurological Ophthalmologist, who's had success with treating children with Optic Nerve Atrophy, using Stem Cells.  Who knows what she might be able to do for Brian.  He looked at Brian's initial report (from the morning he was admitted to A&E, in Queens Medical, Nottingham).  He said "it's a miracle Brian is with us".  His injury was so severe, that it was almost unbelievable he didn't die.  We talked to Dr. Lasala about how fit Brian was. He said "Brian is determined, no?".  "YES", we said.  Anyone who knows Brian knows that to be true!


When Dr. Lasala opened the door to leave, I wanted to hug him, but I was afraid he'd think I was a freak, so I held back.  Erica had a big smile on her face, because secretly she knew Dr. Lasala was interested in helping Brian.  She couldn't tell me that prior to the meeting, but she had a good feeling.  I hugged her instead!  


Nevis knew we were meeting with Dr. Lasala, because I needed her to get all Brian's medical documents, and medication lists.  Jonathan knew just the day before, because he sent me a desperate email about how we had to hurry up and take Brian to China, because he was just so heartbroken, and felt helpless.  I had to let him in on the "secret", just to calm him down.  Shane knew because he was going on a much needed holiday to India, and he called me a couple of days before take off, to say he was feeling so guilty for leaving Brian, that he was considering canceling his holiday.  I had to tell him something good.


Sean and I left Lifesource after about 2 hours.  The sun was shining, and there was a little breeze, and I thought "if anyone can help Brian, it's Dr. Lasala, and this team".  I felt warm and fuzzy all over!


Then, started the phone calls, the tears, the story, the joy, the anticipation!  Telling my father was one of the greatest joys I've ever experienced.  Hearing Nevis tell my mother in the background, was another great joy.  It's all still a "maybe", but it's so much more positive than China.  Don't get me wrong, the facility in China has helped thousands of people, but it's not the right place for Brian right now.  We've found facilities in South America, Germany, Russia.  But Lifesource is the ONLY facility with the technology to grow the cells to such an incredibly large quantity.  The more, the merrier!  


So, Brian will be coming to New Orleans again.  He loves New Orleans.  He spent a summer with me in 1997, and then came here again in 2005, when I took him to see his idol, Aretha Franklin (another great joy for me).  What a fabulous night at the Super Dome.  Little did we know, Hurricane Katrina would rip New Orleans apart just 2 months later, and I would lose everything materially.  Brian mourned for the loss of my little house, and my "things".  He cried at the idea that my beloved City was in tatters, but he sent me a CD of Annie Lennox "I've Got A Life", and wrote the loveliest note about coming out of the ashes, and moving forward.  I see that note every day, and now it reminds me of Brian.


Brian is on the schedule for an infusion, but it may take until the end of January, or some time in February.  I'm busy getting my house ready for the onset!  It's been a wild ride!  


For now, Brian is busy getting himself healthy.  He's using the exercise bike at least once a day.  He said "when you work out, the blood flows through your body much faster, and that will really help me with the Stem Cells".  He's so smart it's ridiculous!


So, that's the big "secret".  No longer a secret now, of course!  


While it won't be as expensive for Brian to come to the US (because I live here), the treatment, and travel will be just as costly.  To all of you who have donated (time, money, etc., etc.), THANK YOU!  Brian is worth every single penny.  We're always overwhelmed by your generosity!  We may not tell you how much we appreciate you're time, effort, resources, but we think about it in our sleepless nights, in our drives to work, in our quiet times, when nobody sees us pray to keep going.  So, "THANK YOU" all.


If you think of a good fund-raising event, let me know, and I'll put it on Brian's website - www.iheartbrian.org.  Every single penny is accounted for (thank you, Ciara).  Nevis is the contact person in Limerick, but you can email, call, or Facebook me too.  The latest fund-raising information (and success stories) are on Brian's website, so don't miss those.  If you want to drop Brian a note, you can mail it to: 82 Russell Court, Ballykeefe.  Limerick. Ireland.  He would love to get "fan mail".


Brian can't see, but in his "minds eye", he see's everything.  Last week he said; "when I can see again, I'm never turning the lights on".  Really?  You're killing us, kid!


My family is grateful every day for even the opportunity to thank you ALL.


Much Love,


Hogan Family xxxx

And many thanks to Brians latest donors!

Robert C., Bondi, NSW, Australia - $30.00

Amy F., Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, UK - $20.00

Mark O., Hove, UK - $20.00

G. & E. Talbot (Mrs. Talbot's Tasty Foods) Metairie, La., USA - $75.00

Latest Update from Nevis Hogan!

To everyone who has donated via this website, your donations are HUGELY appreciated. Brian's sister Nevis contacted me with some others to whom highest accolades must go, who have arranged fund-raisers for Brian on their own also! Hi Nevis here! A lot of money has been donated from here if you could mention them on the blog? Geraldine Wallace and Frances Moylan raised 1000 euro. Joanne Fitzgerald and Sharon O'Flaherty and all their friends who raised over 3000 euro from a skydive. NRG Fitness in Cork raised 700 euro in a 16 mile run to Cobh from Cork City. Lynda Geary Zebo who ran a coffee morning in Cork; Elaine McKeon from Cork who raised 1000 euro and who has been a fantastic support to Brian and introduced us to NRG Fitness. Brian's secondary school have to date raised over 2000 euro and are continuing to raise funds. Bank Of Ireland Roxboro Limerick ran a coffee morning two weeks ago. To all and others I may have forgotten to mention Thank you thank you! Brian's loving your book! Xx To everyone, our deepest gratitude! I can tell you that it won't be long before all your generous contributions of time, money and heartfelt effort will be put to good use for Brian! Stay tuned, and be sure to pass this website on to your friends! And don't forget - till the end of the year, all donors contributing $30 or more get a free copy of "Found Wanting"!

More progress!

Many thanks for our most recent donors (well, all our donors)! Brian is doing well, and looking forward to his stem cell therapy. Still can't give you all the details, but there's big stuff in the works - and all thanks goes to the generous donations from folks who have worked so hard on Brian's fund-raisers and those who have donated through this website! You are the ones who are making a real difference in Brian's future.

One thing that's transpired which is a bit of a shame is the lack of support from the English government. Brian had been living and working in Nottingham, U.K. for nine years when this tragedy occurred, paying taxes and contributing to the country's welfare. However, he has not received one penny of disability or unemployment payment from them! That makes your donations all the more important to him and his family. 

Brian would love to hear from you. I just sent him an audio copy of my recent book to listen to.You can listen to it for free also by clicking here. http://www.bookrix.com/_mybook-seanhfitz_1292315067.5472478867 Chat with Brian about it!

A huge thank you to:

Mark B. (second time donor!), Sheffield, UK - $25.00 

Michael T., Nottingham, UK - $442.00 

Emily T., Nottingham, UK - $10.00

Mark R. (second time donor!), New Orleans, La., USA - $22.22

Rebecca M., Nottingham, UK - $150.00

And as I stated in my previous post - all donors contributing $30.00 or more get a free copy of "Found Wanting"! Michael T., Rebecca M., and Mark B. - expect it in the mail! Thanks and enjoy!

Big things happening!

First off, Brian and his family want to express a HUGE thank you to Mark Bowen for his nighttime bungee jump in Brian's honor! His daredevil feat raised $600.00 towards Brian's treatment! You didn't have to do it, but you did! Many thanks!

Second, I can't tell you all the details right now (it's still sort of secret) but keep watching this space for big news about Brian and his future plans! Let's just say good stuff is in the works! But toward that end, we need to raise at least $10,000 more! Yes, we have a goal! I'll fill you in soon, but for the moment, spread the word to anyone you can! Personal donations, corporate sponsorships, government grants are ALL welcome! If you can send word of this website and Brian's situation to just one or two people, it will help enormously for Brian's stem cell therapy! And remember, stem cells are the ONLY hope for Brian right now. Every bit of medical wisdom we've been able to glean (and that's a lot!) offers no other option for his conditions. 

Brian is doing well. He remains in good spirits and is solely focused on getting better! Recently I published a book titled "Found Wanting" about a serial-killer paramedic (yes, it's fiction). I'm in the process of recording it as an audio book for Brian to listen to. He's been talking about it to everyone! 

So, speaking of my book, here's the deal: For every donation through this website for $30 (US) or more from now till the end of the year, you will receive a FREE copy of "Found Wanting"! Just make sure you include your address in the PayPal donation form so I know where to send it! And remember - ALL of Brian's contributions go to him; I'm sending you a copy of my book at MY OWN expense! None of your donation will be used to "buy" a copy. What a great deal! And don't feel bad for me, I'm happy to do it for Brian - his treatment is foremost in our minds right now! (If you need to convert your local currency to US dollars [PayPal can be persnickety], there's a converter way down at the bottom of this page.)

That being said, again a huge thank you to:

Mark B, Sheffield UK - $600.00

Matthew A, Nottingham, UK - $50.00

All the best to everyone, and thanks!

-Sean Fitzmorris

A big thanks to our fund-raisers in Ireland!

Brian's sister Nevis Hogan wanted to pass along enormous thanks to all her colleagues at Eircom for raising €150 for Brian and to Ciara Storan Chawke for raising €175 in the Limerick mini-marathon! Your generosity and help is is apppreciated more than you can know!


Brian is doing well, home to Limerick for a while after a stay in Dun Laoghaire for some intensive physical therapy! There's stuff in the works, but more details to come on that later. In the meantime, keep watching this space, and tell everyone you can about it! Click the "Tweet this page" link on the right to spread the work quickly and easily on Twitter!