How did we know the NF time bomb was ticking inside of our son, Mickey? Why do so many others live in fear that this bomb could explode inside the bodies of their loved ones at any minute, any hour, any year?

We knew in our hearts that Mickey had NF when he was 9 months old because of his multiple cafe au lait spots. Later, it was by the rapid growth of his head, the freckling under his arm and groin, and the mysterious bumps on his back. Then it was when he didn"t reach his learning milestones and his right eye began to wander. By age 2, it was the large derma fibroma on his delicate forehead. Then it was his speech difficulties and by 4, it was his seizure in the bathtub. This led to the MRI that showed multiple tumors on his brain. Our greatest fears had been realized, and the Drs. could only say "wait and see" because there is no cure for NF.

Now, Mickey approaches his teenage years with much excitement! We hope that things will remain stable, that the optic glioma will not lead to blindness, that his brothers will protect him from school bullies and that he will always be given the opportunity to help people, his greatest pleasure.

As a family, we have learned to navigate through the unpredictable world of NF, to count our blessings, to thank God for all that he has given us and to have gratitude that we have the strength to survive the havoc that the NF time bomb can create as it explodes in the body and minds of our precious loved ones. We ask that you help Mickey in his "race" to help defuse this silent bomb. Support the Children's Tumor Foundation and donate money for research to help find a cure. Every penny counts, as the incredible Student Council at William E. Ferron Elementary proved this Spring, with their coin drive for NF. We send this out into the world with much love and hope and thanks, Mickey and family.