Christopher Jonathon Aubuchon Christopher Jonathon Aubuchon, CJ for short, was living a very normal, healthy, seventeen year old life until the beginning of 2008. After breaking his Humerus bone in February doctors misdiagnosed CJ with Osteoporosis. It wasn't until almost three months later, in the month of April, that doctors diagnosed CJ with cancer; Osteosarcoma, a bone cancer, and Ewings Sarcoma, a family of tumors.
During his treatment CJ had to endure the trauma of a radical and intense program of chemotherapy. He spent most of his time at Children’s Hospital, here in St. Louis. With support from his family, friends, and the very caring staff at the hospital CJ fought his battle with a smile on his face and hope in his heart. Because of the intense chemotherapy, CJ had to miss many special occasions in his life. In April of 2008, he celebrated his 18th birthday in the hospital he missed out on his senior prom and he was unable to walk with his class at graduation from Duchesne High School. Through it all, CJ did not give up hope and was committed to fighting this battle with a positive attitude. After a year of fighting the disease with numerous rounds of chemotherapy, multiple surgeries, blood transfusions, radiation and medication, CJ was given the devastating news that he only had two weeks to a month left. On May 16, 2009 CJ earned his wings. CJ died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family. Only 19 years old, CJ touched so many lives and filled hope in everyone's hearts. He was a beautiful person who shared much joy, wisdom, and hope with others. His passion and courage will continue to remain in our hearts forever. During CJ's fight against cancer we developed CJ's Journey. At this time in our lives CJ's Journey helped pay for the expensive treatments, medicines and transportation not covered by insurance. After CJ was denied insurance for an "experimental" radiation treatment, CJ's Journey reached out to the Saint Louis community for help and support. The out pour of support and love made us realize CJ's Journey could be much more. After CJ's peaceful passing, CJ's Journey changed into an organization that provides hope and assistance to children, young adults and their families with childhood cancer; raises funding for childhood cancer research; assists other organizations that provide funding and support to patients and families effected by childhood cancer; and raises awareness and educates the public about childhood cancer. If you didn't have the incredible pleasure of knowing CJ, let us tell you, he is the single most kind and gentle person we know. We are so very proud of CJ and his incredible strength, courage, faith, and hope during his battle with cancer. This strength, courage, faith and hope is what makes CJ's Journey such a powerful organization. Thank you for your support and dedication to our mission. We truly are making a difference. |
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