By Crystal Thompson
J.B. Moore was hoping that his daughter Andrea's fight with leukemia was over, however tests last week confirmed that she has relapsed.
Andrea Moore was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of four. After eight months of treatment and several thousand dollars worth of medical bills, Andrea's leukemia went into remission. Doctors told the Moore's that after four years, the likelihood of the cancer returning would drop dramatically.
Last Thursday, however, just two months short of the four year mark, tests in Great Falls confirmed that Andrea's leukemia had returned. After tests in Havre showed abnormal cells, Andrea was referred to doctors in Great Falls. Currently, Andrea is in the Seattle Children's Hospital awaiting radiation treatment and a bone marrow transplant. Her mother, Denise Moore, will be staying with her.
J.B. Moore said that while his wife and daughter are in Seattle, he and his son will once again try to raise the funds necessary to compensate for the multiple medical expenses that Andrea's treatments will incur.
Four years ago J.B. set up collection cans at several Havre businesses in order to raise money for Andrea's treatments. Unfortunately, he has been forced to return to those businesses once again requesting donations. An account at Wells Fargo Bank in Havre has been set up for the Moore's for anyone wishing to make a private donation.
J.B. said that Andrea was in great spirits when she left for Seattle.
Although her treatment is risky, the Moore's remain hopeful. "My daughter is tough," J.B. said.
J.B. also said that Andrea would appreciate cards, letters, or pictures; and of course lots of prayers. Because of the duration of the treatments, Andrea will have to spend her birthday in the hospital, she will be nine years old on Nov. 1. Andrea has attended Highland Park school for the past few years and she misses school and her friends a lot. "She wants to say hi to all her classmates," J.B. said.
Anyone interested in helping the Moore family with fundraisers or donations, please call J.B. Moore at 265-2973.
