In February 2016, Dylan Blanchard was diagnosed with Stage IV Appendix Cancer. Dylan was only 31 years young, a father to three young children, a loving husband, son, brother and friend to many.  From the moment that Dylan was diagnosed, he had an army of support, love and encouragement. That army became known as "Team Dylan" and he often found himself speechless at the incredible outpouring of love, prayers and support for him and our family. Dylan was never a speechless kind of guy, more a man of many, fast spoken words. 

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Dylan started chemo at MD Anderson in March 2016. There is not a systemic chemo regimen specifically for appendix cancer so when chemo is used, it's the same treatment that is used for colon cancer. Appendix cancer is much different from colon cancer, but it's the best/closest option they have. (One of many reasons research funding is desperately needed.)

Dylan fought hard. He wanted nothing more than to live to see his beautiful children grow up, to grow old alongside his wife, to stay here with all the people he loved so dearly. Dylan loved BIG. Appendix cancer cheated him, cheated all of us.

 

On August 4, 2016, Dylan took his last breath, surrounded by love. Though he is no longer physically here, Dylan lives on in the hearts of all those who love him and were lucky enough to be loved by him. His memory is kept alive through the love, the memories, the stories and in all the ways that our Team Dylan army continues to honor him. We are forever thankful. ​​​​