Darren Shanks (Part 3)

I spoke to Coach Martinez on Wednesday and he heard Darren was back in the Hospital from complications due to the chemotherapy.

I called the Shanks home and spoke to his mother Vivian. Darren had a setback and was re-admitted back on Monday. Apparently, Darren has an infection in his throat and it is hard for Darren to swallow. He wasn't able to eat and he is in tremendous pain. He had to be medicated with pain killers and has to be monitored by the Hospital staff at Rady Childrens Hospital.

Basically, Darren hasn't eaten since the Super Bowl.

Wanting to pick Darren's spirits up, I had the players sign a poster I had made for Darren. (Thank you to our team photographer Nick LoCoco for the photo!) Once it was completed, I wanted the players to get together and make a presentation to Darren as a team.

Well, being that Darren was re-admitted to Rady Childrens Hospital, he is not able to take any visitors due to the possibility of outsiders bringing the flu virus into the Hospital.

I felt it necessary send the poster to Darren today in the hopes he would feel encouragement from all of us on the team. As I dropped the poster off with Darren's brother at his home, I was informed Darren's swelling in his throat was shrinking to the point he will be able to eat for the first time since the Super Bowl!

I will keep you all posted on any progress as I get it. Also, Darren's mother Vivian has set up a website for Darren. She will be passing me her e-mail address so you can click onto the link to Darren's website.

Keep sending prayers and stay tuned!!!