MICHAEL S. REGAN JR.
April 21, 2011-Aug. 16, 2012
RALEIGH -- April 21, 2011, a beautiful baby boy was born to Michael and Melvina Regan, immediately capturing the hearts of everyone he encountered.
Michael Stanley Regan Jr., or "M.J." to those who knew him well, was diagnosed with stage IV high-risk neuroblastoma -- a rare childhood cancer -- after being in this world for only two short months. A strong fighter from the beginning, M.J. defied the odds and exceeded everyone's expectations as he fought the disease while enduring a series of rigorous, painful treatments.
After six rounds of chemotherapy, tumor resection surgery, radiation and a stem cell transplant, M.J. achieved remission and was cancer free for a short period of time.
Nearing completion of treatment -- and while going through an antibody therapy -- the cancer returned. Despite the setback, M.J. sprang into superman mode once again, but this time the reinvigorated disease proved to be detrimental to M.J.'s earthly body.
M.J.'s short time here has forever changed the lives of many. He has taught us the true meaning of love, patience, perseverance and strength.
The evening of Aug. 16, 2012, while surrounded by his mom, dad and family, our little superman flew beyond the clouds and entered heaven to be with our savior -- free of any disease or pain, and free to play, jump and laugh with no limitations.
M.J. leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Michael Sr. and Melvina; grandparents, Zeb S. Regan Jr. and Mavis Regan of Goldsboro, Olivia G. Thomas of Charlotte and Melvin Thomas of Windsor; three uncles, Oliver M. Thomas of Winston-Salem, Charles Thomas (Tenisha) of Windsor and Zeb S. Regan III (Gina) of Orlando, Fla.; two aunts, Valencia E. Thomas of Laurel, Md., and Chrystal Regan of Raleigh; special great-aunt, Dr. Ophelia Garmon-Brown; godparents, Christopher and Tania Makins of Wake Forest; and a host of great aunts, great uncles and cousins.
A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012, at Raleigh Memorial Park Mausoleum, 7501 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, N.C., 27612.
The family will receive friends immediately following the service at Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, N.C., 27612.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Trust Fund, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB# 7236, First Floor Suite POB, Chapel Hill, N.C., 27599-7236.
Condolences may be sent to www.mitchellatrmp.com.
(Pd)
Published in Obituaries on August 21, 2012 1:51 PM