Drew Denson moves in a way most other 45-year-old men don't, which is to say slowly and stiffly.Twenty-seven years ago he was among the toasts of the Major League Baseball draft, a first-round selection by the Atlanta Braves and the 19th pick overall. The robust 6-foot-5 Purcell Marian star was on the verge of a 12-year pro career that largely played out in the minor leagues.
Now he's battling a rare blood disease that has ravaged his athletic frame and robbed him of physical comforts. Denson has amyloidosis, a condition in which abnormal protein deposits cause his organs and tissues to deteriorate.
While there is no cure, there are treatments. Denson has had two bouts with chemotherapy: One lasted 13 months and lowered his protein levels, and another ended after two weeks when his kidneys failed.
The Springfield Township resident hears that a stem cell transplant could be his best defense. He's willing to undergo the procedure - which requires a five-week hospital stay - if it means he'll be able to see his son, 14-year-old Moeller sophomore-to-be Andre Denson, graduate.
He's willing to ride a scooter at ballparks too taxing to navigate by foot if it means he'll be able to see Andre play baseball.
Denson's days now are filled with dialysis, rest and research. The cruel twist of fate is not lost on a man once known for his peak physical condition.
"It's been very tough. A few of my friends have said, 'Oh man, I can't believe this is happening to Superman,' " Denson said. "I'm like, 'Don't take anything for granted. Appreciate everything. Things like going up the stairs, depending on how good of a day I'm having, might be a struggle.' "
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1 comment:
My grandpa Cecil Lynn Minor also had this disease but sadly he didn't make it hopefully you will Mr.Denson your a good man. my grandma says the doctors told her that his body put out to much protein which started to shut down all of his major organs. i was curious when you were diagnosed Mr.Denson good luck sir.
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