Parish group joins leukemia walk in Zach's honor

Zachary Prestby has another special celebration before his five-year birthday next month. Zachary, his parents, David and Suanne Prestby of Navarino, and three-year-old brother, Timothy, will participate in this week's "Light the Night Walk" to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

In February, Zachary was diagnosed with acute lymphotic leukemia.

"He had been sick on and off during January," explained Suanne. "He had a fever and broke out in a rash. It would go away and then come back again."

The Prestby's pediatrician prescribed antibiotics, but Zachary's condition worsened. He became very pale and developed bags under his eyes.

"The doctor thought he was anemic," said Suanne. "His eyes really concerned us."

Zachary was referred to an oncologist where tests revealed his condition.

The family experienced a whirlwind of emotions, said Suanne.

"It happened very fast," she said. "It is such an emotional thing to go through. We had so much community support though. For about a week and a half, people brought us meals. Everyone knows Zach. They really reached out to us."

Among those who brought food were people of the faith community of St. Lawrence Parish in Navarino where the Prestbys, who also have a three-year-old son, Timothy, are active members. Suanne, who has been a member of St. Lawrence since childhood, serves as the parish liturgist and organist. David plays the guitar for liturgies and teaches religious education.

"When you found out about Zach, you just wanted to do something to help," said Lori Mackowiak, a parishioner and Youth Committee member at St. Lawrence.

Fortunately, the disease was caught in its early stages and had not spread. Zachary began chemotherapy soon after the diagnosis.

"It's amazing how strong he has been throughout his treatment,"his mother said. "He has done so well. He knows that the nurses and doctors are trying to help him."

Zachary's health was steadily improving when he suffered a setback in March. He began passing and vomiting blood. The Prestbys made five consecutive weekend trips to the hospital. "We thought it was related to the leukemia," said Suanne.

Instead, Zachary was diagnosed with an ulcer that required surgery.

"We spent Easter Sunday in the hospital," said David. "During his stays in the hospital Zach had several visitors. Sr. Charlotte (Rebbe, OP, parish director at St. Lawrence) and various priests would visit. Bp. Morneau made a visit on Easter and brought two children's books. We had so much support."

The ulcer surgery was successful and Zachary's leukemia is now in remission. He is doing well, reports David.

Approximately 30 members of St. Lawrence Parish will join the Prestbys at the "Light the Night Walk." The five-kilometer walk raises funds for leukemia research, patient aid and community outreach. An estimated 108,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma in 2001.

The event, held at the AAL grounds in Appleton, was originally scheduled for June 14, but was postponed due to the threat of severe weather. The St. Lawrence Youth Group will be among the walkers.

"Last year we participated in the Juvenile Diabetes Walk," said Mackowiak. "I work at AAL, so I was familiar with the 'Light the Night Walk.' The kids watched Zach's progress, so they are excited to be a part of the walk. We will carry red balloons. Survivors and people with leukemia will carry white balloons. We have Zachary to honor."

"He is very excited about holding a balloon," said Suanne. "We plan to pull him in a wagon."

"We have such a different perspective on life after this experience," she continued. "We have more than 100 'thank yous' to write out. We realize how valuable the prayers of others were to our family. I'm convinced that their prayers carried us through this."