On December 25th, 2002 (Yes Christmas Day) Justin Erickson had a mass removed that a day later was diagnosed as Neuroblastoma. At that time, the survival rate for stage 4 cancer of this type was less than 4%. If Justin had been born ten years earlier, we would not have this healthy, happy boy with us today. Because of research, which forged the way for treatment , Justin beat the odds! Because of faith and prayers, Justin's family endured the months of poisoning that Justin had to endure. Furthermore, according to the American Cancer Society, the survival rate as of July 2010 is 50%. Please note the following thoughts of Justin's mom, Dawn, from March 29, 2003: "So here we are hooked up to the evil poison that once again could change our lives forever, and boy we have our fingers crossed. The funny thing is if you could see Justin right now, you would never even know that he is sick. He's talking up a storm and laughing like crazy at his big brother. Other than being a little tired, and bald of course, he's doing great..." "I think that what helps is the fact that neither of the boys have a clue of what a huge fight that we have already fought, and what lies ahead of us. So life still seems a little normal. I have a new saying - Home is where your mom is- We're just happy being together, it really doesn't matter where!" Today, Justin is clearly coming into his own. Any outdoor activity, spending time with his family, fishing, adventuring, and just being the funny, sassy, boy that he is would never had been witnessed if not for research. Thank you for helping us get to know Justin Erickson. God bless, and keep our family in your prayers. Dawn, Brandon, and Justin.