Caring for Costis 5k/1Mile Fun Run Reminder

Please remember to visit http://www.in-motionsports.com/ to complete you online registration for the Caring for Costis 5K/1Mile Fun Run.

April 30

Matthew enjoyed a morning of lounging around. Matthew was invited to attend the 30 cent ice cream scoop day at Baskin Robbins in Manassas across from Prince William Hospital. He enjoyed all the ice cream, doughnuts and drinks his little heart desired. He also enjoyed a ride on the bounce slide, face painting, and pretending to drive the firetruck. We were able to raise donations for Matthew and his family. We would like give our Thanks to Karin owner of Baskin Robbins, for the opportunity to take part in this event, and for the generous hospitality that he expressed toward Matthew.

Matthew's Quote:"Wow, that is so Cool"!When pretending to drive the Firetruck.

April 29

TODAY WE CELEBRATED!!!! Radiation is OVER!! YEAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!

Caring for Costis 5K/1mile Fun Run Information

Online Registration is available at http://www.in-motionsports.com/

For detailed information about the Caring for Costis 5K/1Mile Fun Run visit the following link:

http://ezleagues.ezfacility.com/default.aspx?facility_id=381

Matthew's Hat Collection Continued

April 28

Matthew was happy to receive four additional hats for his collection today. Radiation went very well and he is excited that tomorrow will be his LAST session(YEAH)!! Matthew is eating well and continues to gain weight and eat everything in sight.

Matthew's Quote:"Watcha gona do"!

April 27 (SAVE THE DATE MAY 31st)

Matthew spent a great morning at Church and later was visited by his friends Matthew T. and Nathaniel. It was nice to see Matthew well enough to enjoy company. He is doing great with keeping food down and eating everything in sight(Lol). Matthew is looking forward to the completion of radiation this week,(YEAH)!!!

Matthew's Quote:"What the Crud" when told it's medication time!

A posting including information about how and where to register for this awesome event benefiting Matthew Costis will be provided at a later date. Please mark your calendar and spread the word.

All Proceeds go to the Matthew Costis Fund !!!

SAVE THE DATE

Saturday May 31st

Event: Caring for Costis 5k/1mile Fun Run

Location: Stonewall Jackson High School , Manassas VA

Registration packet pick-up begins at 7:30am

5k Run Begins at 8:30am

1Mile Fun Run begins at 10am

$25.00 registration fee for 5K includes T-Shirt

$15.00 registration fee for 1Mile Fun Run includes T-Shirt

Water will be provided for the runners!!

Concessions & Moon Bounce, will be available.

Drawings for prizes or gift certificates for runners or walkers will be held.

All PROCEEDS WILL GO TO THE MATTHEW COSTIS FUND AT SJHS

April 26

Matthew spent his morning on the deck enjoying the breeze and some sunshine. He completed activities in his Marvel Comic Activity book and some homework. Matthew spent his afternoon with grandma while the rest of us attended the Impact the Cure event held at Stonewall Jackson High School. Tom presented his speech about the Impact Cancer had on his family, though it was a tough assignment Tom did a great job! We were very blessed to hear the music from Christian group Our Hearts Hero. Matthew was glad to play games and hang out with, Henry, Grandma and uncle Bert. Upon our return from the event Matthew was ready for Nerf war with dad and exhausted himself taken dad down(Lol)! Matthew is looking forward to the continuation of Jonah at Church tomorrow.

Matthew's Complaint List for Aunt Vanessa about Cousin Henry:"Today I watched over my baby cousin and he was Terrible. He screamed his head off, Henry did not go night night, and he was tyring to grab my journal! Matthew wanted this information added to his blog for today.

Matthew's Quote:"Sounds like she's talking about a fish that got away, rather than a man", while talking about Leann Rhimes song BIG DEAL!

April 25 (Looking forward to weekend)

Matthew was happy to have Donnie (Photo journailist) ride along to radiation, we are looking forward to viewing the photos that Donnie was able to capture. Matthew then met Drew his other (Photo Journalist) at the radiation site to have more photos taken. He was happy to oblige the poporatsy(Lol)!! We are very grateful to both of these gentlemen for coming into our lives to tell Matthew's story. We are happy to report that Matthew had a wonderful day without vomiting or nausea. Matthew then attended a rehearsal for a Cancer awareness presentation that Dad (Tom) will be presenting a speech for tomorrow. Tom is very happy to be a part of this event to help raise money for the American Cancer Society. Tom will be speaking on the impact cancer has had on the lives of his family. We wish Tom well on his speech. Matthew is looking forward to a weekend of restfulness and is anxiously awaiting the completion of his radiation treatment next week!!

We are still looking for drink donations and Volunteers to help on May 17 at the Spring Festival, please email or call Aunt Vanessa at vdortiz31@yahoo.com or 540-808-0711, any assistance would be greatly appreciated!!

Matthew's Quote:"I got Jipped" as he realized he missed out on $20.00 per pound for not being weighed at radiation today.

April 24

Matthew took his weekly exhausting trip to Chrildren's Hospital. Matthew said that having his blood drawn was a piece of cake. His team of doctors are very happy with Matthew's progress and think he's handling everything great. We did receive news suggesting that Matthew will have to remain on Chemotherapy anywhere from 6 months to a year:( , not happy news for the family; however, we all remain optomistic. Matthew will have his final two treatments of radiation next week and will go into Children's to have the Chemo port inplanted, followed by a few weeks of much needed rest (play time YEAHHHH)!!! We pray Matthew will be up to it. Matthew continued to move forward full force and has the "lets just get it over"additude then never allows him to give in or give up. He reminds himself daily"no matter how hard it is or how long it takes, I will not loose"! Matthew was sure it would be a beautiful day today, and it was.



We would like to extend are most sincere gratitude to Neighbors Dean,Dana and Son, who gave of there most valuable time to cut and mulch the lawn. These symbols of LOVE don't go unoticed. Your efforts are even noticed by Matthew who realizes how loved he truly is, because of what everyone is willing to do for him and his family. WE ARE SO VERY BLESSED by everyone of you! Thank you for all of your love and support.

Matthew's Hat Collection Continued

Thanks Mr.&Mrs. Lugiano for the wonderful hat collection. There sure are a lot of Miles on these Hats!!

Matthew's Hat Collection Continued

Matthew's Hat Collection Continued

April 23

Matthew was happy to receive 8 new hats today. Radiation went well and no problems with vomiting today(YEAH)! Matthew is excited about radiation coming to the end. Matthew spend time working with Mrs.Parsons today and from the sounds of it did very well on his testing. (GO MATTHEW)!! Matthew takes his weekly visit to Children's tomorrow and isn't pleased about having to have blood drawn but is happy about not having to have blood drawn for a few weeks after. "Let's just get it over with", Matthew says. We pray for another good day tomorrow.

Matthew's Quote"She can't defeat my brain"! As Matthew studied for his upcoming spelling exam.

April 22

Radiation was a go flight for Matthew today. The machines kept running when Matthew came in the door. Radiation treatment was very fast; however, was a little hard on Matthew since he hadn't had it for a few days. Matthew became ill and had some trouble with the vomiting today. Matthew completed all of his school work with Mrs.Parsons and is very close to being completely caught up with the class YEAH!, Matthew says "They didn't take my smart cells I'm still very smart". Matthew gained 4 pounds and now weighs 54 pounds and daddy is in debt $20.00 for every pound he gained. Matthew was quick to do the math after receiving the news. He asked daddy to pay up! Matthew has only 5 remaining radiation treatments, if all goes as planned and the "Machine" doesn't break, his radiation treatment will be completed on Tuesday of Next Week!!!! Matthew looks forward to the end of radiation and would like to "Just get it over with".

Matthew's Quote"I still have smart cells left"!

April 21

Today Matthew received another day off of radiation, unfortunately the machine continues to give the hospital problems. Matthew was ready to get them over with, but we are confident that there is a reason greater than our understanding as to why the delays continue to occur. Matthew continues to have a great appetite and a wonderful attitude. We can see he's gaining weight with every hot pocket and bagel bite he eats. He was happy to enjoy a day of relaxing, watching movies and playing games with the photojournalist. His more productive activities included working on school work with Mrs.Parsons.

Matthew's Quote:"Somethum Somethum whose got somethum", a little rapping Matthew made up today, we don't know what it means but he sure gets a kick while singing it(Lol)!!

April 20 (Call for Volunteers and Donations)

In attempt to raise funds for Matthew and his family we are trying to organize the selling of drinks,T-shirts and wristbands at the Old Town Warrenton Spring Festival. A neighbor was kind enough to donate the booth for our use. We are asking for the donation of sodas and water in any form or quantity that can be used to sell at the festival. We are also looking for anyone who may be available to Volunteer to man the booth for a 2 hour time slot. The festival will be held on Saturday May 17Th from 9-4:00pm. If you are interested in helping and supporting this effort please email :
Aunt Vanessa at vdortiz31@yahoo.com or call 361- 446- 4713.

Thanks for all your support
Aunt Vanessa

April 20

Matthew spent an exciting morning at church and was successful in convincing mommy and daddy to take him to Country Cooking for lunch. He managed to eat everything his heart desired from the salad bar and topped it off with an enormous ice cream cone (YUM)! Matthew's had a big appetite and is doing great on the new medications prescribed this past week. We are hoping that he is putting on the pounds, because he's eating everything in sight. Matthew prayed that god would help him in his effort of keeping food down and to speed up the time it would take to cure him, I would say his prayers are being answered! Matthew looks forward to beginning the race to his 8 final radiation treatments and would like to have an end of radiation treatment celebration YEAH!!

Matthew Quote:"I am prepared" Matthew sings a song he made up!

April 19 Matthew Update

Matthew spend a great day with the family and his grandparents playing board games. He had a visit from the photographer from Potomac News and posed for some great shots(Lol). He ate so many bagel bites that his little tummy was unable to keep them, so he had ONLY one episode of vomiting today. He just about finished an entire box within 2 days. Guess another trip to Costco will be necessary. He enjoyed time outside in this great weather and decided that he wants to go fishing as soon as possible, we will have to work on these arrangements. Matthew is going strong and is overcoming his battle with his stomach and Say's his stomach is in tip top shape again!

Matthew Quote:"I feel great"!

April 19 (Note to all readers)

We have added many blogs through the evening containing pictures of Matthew's Hat Collection. Our webmaster created and maintains Matthew's Website on a volunteer basis and has been very busy and unable to place updates as rapidly as he would like. Eventually all photos and documents attached to these blogs will be placed in the appropriate location of the website, but we would like to provide the most current pictures and information as possible to all of Matthew's praying family. We will continue to include updated photos of Matthew on the blog until the website is able to be updated.

Thank you,
Aunt Vanessa

Matthew's Hat Collection Continued

Matthew's Hat Collection Continued

Matthew's Hat Collection Continued

Matthew's Hat Collection

April 18

Matthew had another good day of radiation. He spent some time outside enjoying this beautiful day and using his swing set. He was very blessed by a visit from a neighbor. He spend a wonderful evening enjoying watermelon on the patio and even read his book. Tom and Priscilla would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Brett for doing the yard work today and the others who took time to organize such a wonderful gesture of kindness. We are truly grateful. We pray for another good day for Matthew tomorrow!

Matthew's Quote:" I have superman powers because god's with me"!

April 17

Matthew had a good day of radiation after having to reschedule from his 1:30 appointment to 4:00pm. He was happy for the rescheduling because he was able to attend his sisters Poetry Recital. Matthew had a great day keeping food in his stomach (yeah)! Matthew has also gained 3 pounds and is now weighing 51.3ounces YEAHHHHHH!

Matthew's Quote:"God's Golden rule is, God is Love".

April 16

Matthew almost escaped another day of radiation therapy because the machine keeps going down just before Matthew's appointment time (Lol). He was able to received treatment after they worked vigorously to get the machine up and running. Matthew was happy to get the dose over with. Uncle Mark was able to accompany him to radiation and also treated Matthew to a new Webkinz (Yeah)! He was very happy to receive a pirate cap and shirt from Capt. Sindbad's MEKA II Ship, and to see his picture in the paper. He is feeling a little better and is managing to keep some food down but still struggles with the vomiting.


Matthew's Quote:"My stomach is back in gear and in tip top shape cause I don't' give up that easy" ! As he points his finger toward the sky to make a statement.

April 15

Matthew is doing better today, thanks to gods sweet grace. He prayed that god would help him and that he has. Matthew managed to get one more day off of radiation thanks to machines being down. He actually would have preferred to get it over with he said, but he'll take it. Matthew ate an entire slice of Tony's Pizza (Yum), and managed to keep it down. He also snacked on some of his favorite Wavy Lays Potato Chips while playing video games (or I should say while watching mommy and uncle Bert play video games(Lol)! He also was very happy to receive two hats today, and two wonderful packages from Robby his classmate. Matthew says Thank you very much Robby! Today Matthew vowed that "no matter how long it takes or how hard it is I WILL NOT LOSE"!

Matthew's Quote:"I will not lose cause god's in front of me"!

Side note:Matthew's story will appear in the Fauquier-Times Democrat in a three part series beginning tomorrow and continue for two weeks after, help support the spread of Matthew's Story and www.matthewcostis.org by picking up the paper and encouraging other to as well.

April 14

Today Matthew took a visit to Children's Hospital for some much needed IV'. He has been infused by his X-Men powers and is feeling a little better right now. He is very fatigued and is hoping to regain strength by tomorrows radiation date.

April 13

Today Matthew enjoyed an hour at church and was able to get through the entire service with out vomiting (God's Grace)! Unfortunately his winning streak came to an end as the vomiting continued. Matthew is trying very hard to conquer this battle between he and his stomach, to no avail. He's a trooper and will continue his efforts to regain the weight lost. He has been suffering from headaches and says his brain must be getting bigger and no longer fits in his head"if only I can open my skull and give my brain room to grow I think I'd be fine" says Matthew. We explain to Matthew that with all the green
Aloe Vera gel he's been using on his head, he must be turning into the Incredible Hulk.(Stronger)! The fight is getting harder but win he shall.

Matthew's Quote:As Matthew flexes his muscles he says"I must start lifting weights"!

April 12

Today Matthew continues having trouble with the vomiting. We are trying everything we can to insure that he gains the weight needed to avoid hospitalization. He did have a few moments of fun and excitement, as he played with Matthew Taylor, after a little bit of Nerf battling the M&M's resulted to more relaxing and less strenuous activity, in order to insure that Matthew refrain from burning calories! As a late night snack Matthew requested a Vanilla shake from the Carousel how can he not gain weight with that (Lol)? Matthew has declared a battle of the wills against his stomach, "I don't care what my stomach says I'm not throwing up"! Yeah Matthew!

Matthew's Quote:"God's Love is Extreme and he's inside me".

April 11

Matthew was happy to receive a day off of radiation, unexpected cancellation by the doctor and we'll take it. He enjoyed his day off by excepting a very generous invitation to dinner and movie by neighbors Powell and Nancy Duggan. Thank you very much for your warm hospitality we all enjoyed it very much. Matthew's having a very tough time keeping food down, we are working very hard to increase the length of time things stay in his stomach, he's a trooper and the breathing techniques mommy has taught him are working well. We must fatten Matthew up in a weeks time to avoid another extended stay at Children's Hospital(BOO)!! I know he'll fight to gain that pound. Matthew was very pleased to received 3 new hats today. His collection is growing and he's only about 300 away from having Aaron from Mr.Magoriums collection ha ha!! All the hats are very greatly appreciated, receiving them makes the loss of his hair a little more tolerable.

Matthew's Quote:"Just DEALLLLLLLLL WITH IT"

April 10

Today Matthew's visit to Children's Hospital was a little disappointing, Matthew has lost an additional 2 pounds within seven days causing serious concern to doctors. We are going to have to work on Fattening him up! Matthew continues to be very uncomfortable with the burning of his skin, but he keeps on fighting. Matthew was very excited to receive 10 new hats yesterday(Yeah)!

Matthew's Quote:"You better be ready because I have no mercy"!

April 9

Another day of radiation for Matthew. He is beginning to feel a little baked as his skin becomes more and more sun burned due to the radiation process. Wet towels and cream seem to be the best remedy for the burning sensation. Matthew was happy to receive the sequel to Diary of a Wimpy Kid. He is looking forward to reading it. Tomorrow Matthew takes his weekly trip to Children's National Hospital to visit his team of Doctors. Today Matthew has received word that blood work will not be necessary this week so he's very happy about that(YEAH)!

Matthew's Quote:"Just because I have a towel on my head aunt Vanessa doesn't mean I'm stupid", after Aunt Vanessa try to pull a fast one over him.

April 8

Matthew had another good day at radiation. His skin is becoming a little more sensitive and he is feeling a little more uncomfortable, but he is dealing with it well. He continues with his allergies and cough making it a little harder to keep from vomiting. He still has a bit of an appetite although he can't eat all that he wishes. He would like to thank everyone for the great hats that he has been receiving. Pictures of Matthew in his hats will be posted to the website as quickly as possible. He especially wanted to Robby from class for sending hats with Mrs.Parsons today. He is very grateful. ,

Matthew is also very excited about having received a letter from Barack Obama encouraging Matthew to remain strong and applauding him for his bravery!

Matthew's Quote:"Your not going anywhere, your stuck with me Kapeesh"!

April 7

Radiation went very well today, doing radiation face up was much easier; however, due to radiation Matthew's head is extremely irritated and he had to use lotion to help ease his discomfort. He is also suffering from Allergies which have caused a runny nose and a very severe cough. He is still having trouble with vomiting so he was able to have only one slice of Pizza. His spirits are very high and is very excited to have received 2 additions hats today. He is hoping to begin a collection as great as Aaron in Mr.Magoriam's Wonder Emporium.

Matthew's Quote:While listening to John Lennon's song Imagine, Matthew stated " he is wrong there is a heaven".

April 6

Matthew had a good day today. He spent the afternoon on a Treasure Hunt in search of clues to find gifts for his sister Kaitlyn and cousin Dalanie Damsel's in distress. For his great efforts in fighting the mean Ogre and searching for clues, Matthew was awarded a beautiful treasure box with treasures inside. Thank you John for taking the time to put together such a wonderful surprise for Matthew and the Girls, we are truly grateful. Matthew has been having a little trouble with vomiting; however, doesn't let it stop him. He continues to have positive thoughts and outlook!

Matthew's Quote:"Your not going to stop me that easily"

April 5

Today was a very exciting day for Matthew. He was visited by a reported from the Faquier Democrat Newspaper. A story will be done about Matthew next week. He is also excited about having a photographer visiting the home during the next few days. We have had to convince him that he cannot start Nerf war with him (Lol). He looks forward to tomorrow where he plans to visit Warrenton County Youth Soccer Fields to support his Soccer Team. The Warrenton Youth Soccer League will be taking a collection for Matthew and will match up to $2500.00 in proceeds to benefit the Costis Family, lets go out and support this effort!

Matthew's Quote:"And I love Her" When talking to the reporter about grandma Gracie"

April 4

Today was Matthew's Last day of Face Down Radiation (YEAH!!) He came home with his head mold used during radiation. Matthew was excited about receiving several new hats. He has begun to have more vomiting but is dealing with it as best as he can. His spirits are still very high and swears his body just needs fatty foods like chicken nuggets from McDonald's ha-ha. Matthew also visited his friends at C.M. Bradley, a visit long overdue! Thank you C.M. Bradley for all you have done for Matthew and for the Hat Day that was held before Spring Break.

Matthew's Quote:"I'm not going down that easy"

Guest Book

We are asking everyone to flood his guestbook through the weekend, we would like for Matthews web counter to get a high as we can get it through the weekend, so pass his website on t0 everyone you know and lets get those messages coming in and that counter up.

Thanks for all you do!!

April 3

Another day of Radiation and a weekly trip to Children's! Matthew had a good day at Children's where doctors are very happy with Matthew's Progress. Matthew looks forward to tomorrow for his last day of face down radiation. He begins face up radiation on Monday for two weeks Yeah! Matthew was able to complete school work with Mrs.Parson's and was ready to play Nerf War with Grandma. Matthew's optimism continues and is sure he will win this fight!

A Message from Matthew:"Thank you all for the encouragement and I'm feeling a lot better". With arms raised in the air!

Matthew's Quote: "Never show defeat!"

April 2

Today Matthew continues to gain strength and announced that he was cured of cancer, GREAT OPTIMISM!! And we pray that his declaration will become reality. He had a good night with limited vomiting and woke up alert and ready to be triumphant in today's fight. He added a new Webkinz to his collection and was very happy about that. Unfortunately, Matthew was forced to say goodbye to Uncle Andy and Aunt Brandy today. He looks forward to their return someday soon. Saying goodbye to his buddy made him a bit sad but he's comforted by the other family that surrounds him, though he declared that no one else is allowed to return to Texas! We are all order to stay until his fight is over. A wish we are happy to grant!

Matthew's Quote: "I love you everyone and I'm not going down that easily"

April 1

Matthew had a great April fools day with no pranks. He was visited by Mrs.Parson's and was able to complete some school work that was long overdue. He received a gift from his cousin Dalanie (Alvin and the Chipmunks Movie) and was very happy. While watching Mr.Magorium's Wonder Emporium Matthew made several comments about making the best of life and living happily. We are inspired daily with his strength!

Matthew's Quote:"You got to believe in yourself".