By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
In March, a story was included in the Star Eagle following a benefit for Christian Reichl of Albert Lea. At that time, we learned Christian had been diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2010, when he was 4. Christian underwent two brain surgeries and three minor surgeries in two and half years and then traveled to Chicago where he had to undergo six weeks of proton radiation treatments.
Christian and his family continue to deal with many medical issues and appointments. On June 11, the Reichl family spent a long day, 11 1/2 hours to be exact, at the Children's Hospital in Minneapolis. Christian underwent his 12th MRI and met with seven specialists.
Christian's mother, Lisa, reports that though it was a very long day, Christian's MRI showed significant improvement even since the last MRI in February and his tumor is shrinking. This is all very good news, but he continues to show side effects from the radiation treatments, including obesity, feet and leg pain, and behavior issues. The radiation treatments are also causing problems for Christian regarding his short-term memory and a slower thought process, which could last up to two years after radiation.It has been a tough spring for Christian and his parents, as he still is not able to sleep all night. A couple of times a month, he does sleep all night, maybe providing a way for his mind and body to catch up. They will continue getting help for Christian's very complex medical condition from their nine specialists at Children's Hospital in the Cities.
Christian's neurologist said the Reichls are phenomenal parents, which they appreciated as Christian's world and theirs have been shattered since the tumor developed in Christian’s brain.
Lisa said, "”Parenting and caring for Christian, physically, mentally and financially has been the hardest thing in our life, but we wouldn't trade him for the world."
The Reichls know it would be better to see the specialists at the Children's Hospital more often, but that is difficult due to time it takes them away from their jobs, and the fact they receive no outside help and are responsible for all his medical expenses.
Though school is not his favorite thing, Christian did graduate from first grade with flying colors with above-average scores. He is looking forward to attending a summer day camp program in Clarks Grove, which he may attend as many days or weeks that he and his family choose.
With summer upon us, Christian had a wish to get a bike he could ride. And, even though a special needs three-wheel bike was too expensive, his parents felt the sacrifice needed to be made as it was like medicine for his health.
Needless to say, Christian was one happy boy with his new bike. Christian wiped out on his first attempt at riding the bike because he wasn't used to using a handlebar brake. But, the next night, he got back on.
Please remember to keep Christian and his family in your thoughts and prayers. For one day, we will be gone, and what will remain is the memory of what we did for others.
If you can help out in any way, through prayers, cards, monetary donation, yard or house work, you can send it to or notify them through Floor Tech of Albert Lea, Attn: Derek, 2201 East Main Street, Albert Lea, MN 56007 or call 507-552-1637.
The Riechls say, "Thank you for all your support and prayers! We greatly appreciate it!"