In November of 2002, while Neil was working in Connecticut for Corporate Express, he became very ill and was transported by his supervisor to Milford Hospital in CT. After being diagnosed with a brain tumor, he was transferred to St. Raphael's, in New Haven, CT for a surgical consult. The following day Neil was accepted as a patient of the world renowned neurosurgeon, Dr. Peter Black, of Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. His family made the decision to have Neil transported back to Boston to have Dr. Black surgically remove the Glioblastoma Multiforme from the left side of his brain. Throughout his 30 month battle with cancer Neil endured three surgeries, radiation and arduous experimental treatments. He was followed by Dr. Patrick Wen of the Dana Farber Cancer Institute during this difficult time. During his illness, Neil’s strength and attitude about life was an inspiration to all that came in contact with him. After his diagnosis, Neil was unable to return to work, but found enjoyment in volunteering time at the Lawrence School, photography, walking, and time spent with friends and family. In April of 2005, Neil sat at his computer, struggling with his fine motor skills and thought process, however, he persevered because he felt it was important to put into words what he learned during his long journey with cancer. After a courageous battle Neil passed away on May 24, 2005.
THINGS I’VE LEARNED
That Janet, Neil Jr. and Keith are the most important things in life.
How important it is to smile.
Not to dwell on the problems.
How to face fear.
Always have a plan B.
I’VE ALSO LEARNED
What physical and emotional pain really is.
To expect the unexpected.
Never give up hope, but prepare for the worst.
Support groups really are okay.
You never know where and when you’ll meet somebody
that you can help, or can help you.
Photography is better then meditation.
AND THAT
It takes a long time to learn to say Glioblastoma Multiforme.
What great staffs Brigham and Women’s and Dana Farber have.
How to make difficult decisions.
ALSO THAT
The Lawrence School staff is a wonderful support system.
Take out is a great thing.
Some friends are “real friends”.
Family can go beyond blood relatives.
Sense of humor gets you through difficult times.
To sit next to big Sheb at dinner if you want the extra piece of cake
you’re not supposed to have.
Singing helps even if you can’t do it.
That the word “orangutan” makes people laugh.
BUT THE IMPORTANT THING I LEARNED IS
That somebody needs to raise enough money
to find a cure for this horrible disease,
so no other family has to go through what ours has.
Neil Harrington
April 2005
Neil C. Harrington Sr. Memorial Fund
Funding Brain Cancer Research
BIOGRAPHY
