Daniel's Story

Everyone, I would like you to meet Daniel. I had the immense honor of meeting this little guy during NAS JRB's Air Show. With a lot of help from people in higher places than me, Daniel and his family were VIP guests to the Commanding Officer and the Blue Angels. Daniel got to meet, and talk with, the Blue Angels after their show on Friday. As he was handing out his cards (which he had readily available in his short pockets!), the BA's were having him sign them! He also got his picture taken with the crew and we got him a ride in one of the simulator planes....

All I can say is this - this little guy and his entire family (if I'm not mistaken he has 8 other siblings, forgive me if I am wrong Daniel) are fighters. I wish I could do more, but the one thing I can do is get Daniel's story out. So, without further ado, Daniel's Story:

Background Story

Friday, January 16, 2009. Mine and my family's worlds got turned upside down.

Let's backtrack a little bit. For about a year now I have been complaining off and on of pain to both the right knee and left shoulder blade. Mom took me to see Dr. Stevenson to have my knee checked out. The doctor ran a blood test to rule out juvenile arthritis. The test results came back good in that it was not arthritis, that it had to be growing pains. Growing pains can affect a lot of body parts especially joints where things bend, and the doctor said to use Motrin for the pain.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009. Mom went to wake me up to get ready for school. I was aready up. My left shoulder was starting to hurt me again. Mom gave me some Motrin and told me to go back to bed. I was not going to school today. I hardly ever miss school. I LOVE school.

Thursday, January 15, 2009. I woke up and my left shoulder was still hurting. My mom gave me some more Motrin and told me to get ready for school, that i was just having growing pains -- I still needed to go to school. I was hurting and crying at school, so they called my mom to come get me. We stoped at my Grammy and Grampy's (my mom's parents) house to drop off some medicine for my GG (Grammy's mom). On the way back home mom took me to see Dr. Karno, Mom and Dad's friend the chiropractor to see if he could figure out how to help the pain. Dr. Karno showed me how to do exercises and stretches to work on helping my shoulder. (Thanks, Dr. Karno.) I was hurting so much I actually went to bed without dinner.

The next morning Januaary 16, 2009 Mom woke me up to go to school. I really wanted to go to school. I LOVE P.E., but Mom took one look at my face and knew I was hurting too bad. I went and took a nap by Mom. Around 2 o'clock pm I woke up. I was hurting really, really bad. Mom told me to do a stretch with my arm. I did for about 20 mins. It helped at first then it started hurting more. That's when Mom told me to go take a hot bath -- that maybe it would help the pain. I was taking off my shirt when my mom noticed my left shoulder blade was swollen four times the size it should be. My mom FREAKED out. She asked to see my shoulder. Then called Dad and told him to leave work and meet us at the ER. Dad could not leave work!!! So he said for Mom to keep him posted as to what was going on.

At the ER the doctors could not figure out what the problem with my shoulder was. They thought at first it was something called a seawing when your shoulder blade gets stuck in the back position, or that I might have dislocated my shoulder and did not know it. Then I got a IV and some blood work done. The doctors did, I think, about 22 xrays and 2 cat scans. The nurse came and sat with me while the ER doctor went to talk to my mom. Mom was taken to the other side of the ER and was told that I have cancer and that it has metastasized (means spread from the original site on my left shoulder blade to under my sternum and in both lungs) -- Stage 4 Cancer, and that we were being rushed to Children's Hospital in New Orleans to get further testing done. Mom says she then called my dad and was freaking out so much she told my dad I had cancer. He asked Mom what she had said and she just stated crying again. She could not talk, so the doctor took the phone and explained to my dad about the cancer. My mom called my Grampy and Grammy at home and told them. My Grampy came up to the ER to wait with me and my mom for my dad to arrive. Dad had just left work when Mom called to tell him about the cancer. It usually takes my dad 45 mins to get home; he got to the ER in 15 mins. NOT too smart there, Dad. Grampy told us he saw the stretcher in the hall. Grampy gave me and my mom a big kiss and left to go back home by Grammy and a very upset and worried GG. The anbulance had arrived and took Mom and me on my very first ambulance ride ever. I thought that it was very cool. Mom not so much. She was getting a little car sick.

It is about 10:30 pm. We just arrived at Children's Hospital New Orleans via ambulance. Granny Nina and Dad met us there. Some of the cancer doctors met us in the ER. Dr. Patel got me checked in and did my vitals while Dr. Razzaqui took Mom, Dad, and Granny Nina in another room to explain that I have stage 4 cancer which is not good. That means the cancer metastasized - spread from my left scapula (shoulder blade) to under my sterum and in both my lungs. Mom and Dad were told that I would have surgery - biopsi to find out what form of cancer it is. The doctors beleieve it is either Ewing Sarcoma or Rhabdo Sarcoma. Mom and Dad went to get a burger while Granny Nina got me settled in my room. Granny Nina got me to start today saying one thing everynight I am grateful for.

Luv Ya, Daniel

So, here is the star of my blog.... I am just now getting to know Daniel, but I know this already - he and I are going to be great friends. Below is Daniel's website on Caring Bridge. I've also inlcuded the 'how you can help' portion of Daniel's business card he hands out to everyone. Take a minute, go to this site and whether you just send an email or more.... I know he would appreciate it.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/danielmolinary

(From Daniel's card): IF YOUR ABLE TO HELP.

To donate blood or platelets call "The Blood Center" at 1-800-86BLOOD or log on to http://www.thebloodcenter.org/ to get locations and times.

Also, my family has set up a donation account for me at "Chase Bank". Donations can be made at any branch in my account. Routing #: 065400137 Account#: 2920096589.

All contributions are greatly appreciated; blood, platelets, financial assitance, prayers and most of all love.

I will be sure to include you in my nightly gratitude prayers.

Thanks to you all. Love, Daniel

Alright buddy, there ya go. I will keep everyone on my side posted on your progress, now all you have to do is keep fighting and get better.

Love ya buddy!

2009 N'Awlins Air Show

After 7 months of preperation, countless hours of meetings upon meetings and tons of hair pulling, name calling and no-love giving people.... WE DID IT!

There are so many people behind the scenes of an air show, I never truly respected the process until now; I just happened to be one of those 'people'. Even after all the arguin, deal-making and concessions.... it really was very much worth it!

We had the Blue Angels as headliners, and as always, they definately were worth it. No matter what logistical, security or any other nightmare we had to deal with for them... they put on a hell of a show!

We also had the Golden Knights (awesome), the Raptor (hella cool), the heritage flight (goose bumps with that performance) and so many other performers. 30+ static displays and concessionaires.... all I can say is WOW!

Pictured above are the two gentlemen that made this air show possible. They are two Naval Officers that I am proud to say I have had the great pleasure to work with! On the left is LT J. Greer and on the right LCDR D. Edge. Even though they give all credit to those who were on the committee (and yes, I admit we worked our butts off for them and this air show), these two officers were the key, the epicenter.... the backbone to the show. Gentlemen, it was a great pleasure to work for you and with you.

So, this is me with my co-conspirator Dan. This was our pimp ride for the air show (stylin' aren't we?). Between foot patrol, roving patrols, putting out fires, kicking out drunks and taming the crowds at the end of the day.... YEAH, we were exhausted by the end of the day. I don't think we got home before 10 pm the entire weekend (after being at work at 0500 each day). I do need to send a thank you to Dan, he was my absolute saving grace during this evolution. Dan, thank you and hope to work with you again very soon.

But, the ones that truly made this air show happen and run smooth are all the junior enlisted personnel that worked it. I want to make sure I give a huge shout out to my guys and girls in the security department who I had the great pleasure to work for during the show. I was (and am) so proud of each and everyone of you. Thank you.

The numbers are still coming in, but as to date, the air show hosted over 152,000 people. May seem small to you but one thing all need to make note of: we were up against the long-standing tradition of the New Orleans Jazz Fest...... So, to all those non-believers, those that said we couldn't pull off a sucessful air show on a Jazz Fest weekend....... I won't say I told you so... I'll let the numbers and everyone that was at the show say it for me!

GO NAVY!

New Found Sanctuary!

BARATARIA PRESERVE

I have found a sanctuary within my cement jungle! Mind you, I have found others but this one is a mere 5 miles from my house! A friend of mine told me about it and I instantly fell in love with this place!

The 'trails' right behind the visitor center are like one long deck. They are raised above the ground (smart idea due to the 'flooding' issue around here!).

After a long day of studying for my upcoming tests, we went out for a walk. It was great. Brought the girls' bike so she could peddle around for a bit.

Believe it, or not, she got soooo excited over the (several) snakes and lizards we found on our outing. She thought the snakes were "so cute"! She is starting to be a chip off the ol' block. Her love for nature and the outdoors does my heart good.

OH, I so feel at home in this place!

City Park - New Orleans

Here is a favorite spot for me and mine! Sadie absolutely loves this place. It is a huge park near downtown. It has lots of cool trees to climb, a small amusement park, the Story Book park, ducks and even a museum!

If there is a weekend that is warm and sunny, you can find us here. When my other two girls were here, Darby and Chloe, we all ventured down to the park for a picnic and fun.

We brought Darby's friend, Jessi, with us and there was much tree climbing and merriment that ensued! Even in this concrete jungle you can find a piece of paradise; grass you can walk through barefooted, trees that are worth your time climbing

and a peace you don't find in the hustle and bustle

of the city.

There are other parks, in fact there are several other parks, but this is my favorite.

Elvis Spotting - Mardi Gras Style

HAPPY MARDI GRAS

In an effort to jump on the "I saw Elvis" band wagon... I give you Elvis, N'Awlins style.

Yes, it is that time of the year in the jungle. Strange creatures roam the streets, throwing beads, stuffed toys, cups and sometimes even undies (yes, undies) from decked out metal machines that trundle along the crowded street. There, lined up, brimming with anticipation - are the people. Ladders rigged as seats, bags ready for the promise of loot and kids and adults waving their hands frantically, all for the ultimate treasure.... BEADS (the bigger the beads, the better!).

I actually truly enjoy this aspect of New Orleans. When I tell people about Mardi Gras, I don't think they truly get just how serious the local natives take their festival. The ENTIRE town shuts down. Especially the pinnacle day, Fat Tuesday... TODAY! When I say shut down, I'm not just talking about the small mom and pop stores, I am talking everything! The concrete streets become filled with color, sounds and people. You are surrounded by strangers that in an instant can become your 'parade' buddies!

START EM' YOUNG!

This is where it all starts folks. At a young age the children of the jungle are taught the secrets to getting those all coveted beads. Be cute, raise up your arms and yell at the top of your lungs..... Of course if they are anything like my girl here, all that isn't even necessary. Half way through this particular parade, she was sitting on a upturned milk carton and complete strangers were catching beads and handing them to her... Boy is she good!


So, what is a country girl to do during this week long ritual... I grab a friend and join it of course! Hey, I may be country, but I know a good party when I see one!

Let Me Get Started

For those who know me, you realize this is an old picture of me. For those who don't let me explain, I now wear khakis, have a couple more stripes and they call me Chief!

I picked this photo becuase it was a turning point in my Naval career. This was my graduation picture from Master At Arms (cop) school. Prior to that I had been a Corpsman for 11 years.

I am currently serving in my 18th year and have loved every day (okay, not every day but who really does). I am proud to stand up and say, "I served". I have made some totally awesome friends. Friends, I'm finding out, that stick with you throughout the years. I know it doesn't seem so hard; but think about it. We, as Sailors, Marines, Soldiers or Airmen, move (normally) every three years. New state (or country), new home, new start. It's not always fun leaving people you have worked with for three years, bonded as only those who serve can bond. We work, fight, live and die together. We are criticized, together. We protect those who cannot protect themselves, together. We are unique and I don't care if that sounds conceited, because its true. There are those who can serve and those who can't. Those who can ensure the ones who can't have the freedom to pursue whatever they want. So again, proudly, with every ounce of heart and soul I can pour into written words..."I proudly serve in the United States Navy". Okay, now I am off my soap box. Sorry, sometimes I go off on tangents so bear with me throughout this blog.

I have three beautiful children who somehow manage to love me no matter what. I have a sister, dad and mom who support me in whatever I do, though at times throughout my 37 years I am sure one of them, at one point, wanted to throw me in a closet and lose the key!

I am a country girl trapped in this concrete jungle people like to call the city. I yearn for grass under my bare feet, the feel of running full speed on the back of my horse across a pasture, the smell you only get out in the country and my step mom's country cooking. *sigh* But here I be, wearing shoes cause concrete hurts, the only horses I see are the ones running around a track, all I smell is stale alcohol, jet fumes and not-always-so-clean people. And I have to cook myself..... Do you see the sad, sad comparison?

But, as I said, I am at the beginning of my 18th year in the Navy. In two more years I can retire, and I plan on doing just that. I am currently enrolled in college for my RN degree. I have dreams of flying around on a helo while patching people up.

So, there is me. Believe me, lots more but I don't want to bore you and I have to get up because my leg and butt have gone to sleep. So, until next time.