FB: Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

[Pat Coleman]

I know some people here already know this, but for those who don't, passing it on:

A.J. Raebel is battling cancer. Here's more background and info on how you can help the fight.
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/ajraebel/mystory

[footballfan413]

 I figured that after years of posting on this site, I would, one day, come clean about my identity and my close connection to a very special red-headed Warhawk linebacker named A.J. Raebel.  Never in my wildest dreams, however, did I think it would be because he was being talked about on the boards because he has cancer.  I am his mother, Dianne Raebel.  Years ago, I posted as myself on warhawkfootball.com's guestbook back when Tom had it and a poster was critical of  A.J,'s playing ability, myself and other members of my family.  That is when I learned my lesson and I have worked very hard to remain anonymous ever since then.  I didn't want my little hobby to hurt anyone else in my family. But as with life, things keep changing.  I have always worked very hard to only post educated, informed and respectful posts about the Warhawk football program and to stay away from any discussions that involved my son directly.  My oldest son suggested that I come out after the 07 Stagg Bowl.  He said A.J. had established himself as a premier player and I had made many friends on the board and earned a good reputation.  He said if anyone went after us that all my buddies on the boards would have my back.  I hope that is true.  Over the years, I have made my identity known selectively to many posters and a big thank you to those who have honored my desire to remain incognito.  BoBo, Blue Devil Bob, Wildcat 11, Tuxguy, Swede, Olinemom, Pat and Keith to name just a few.  But now that this story has broken, I feel my hand has been forced.  This is a story about my son that I can not read about like I am an uninterested party.  Yes, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer in November.  He had surgery to remove the tumor and is starting chemo because it appears to have moved into the lymph's and beyond.  His Dr's have assured us that it doesn't change the odds of a good outcome which still remains at 99%.  I am comforted by that.  Please no cracks about steroids, it isn't the case.  He peed in many a cup for the NCAA over 3 years of play-offs and Stagg Bowls and they don't make you 6'5".  I was shocked to learn two things when he was diagnosed.  Young men, ages 18-32, are most at risk for this type of cancer and most don't seek treatment until 1 to 1 ½ years after they have symptoms.  If his story encourages young men to be vigilant about their health and seek treatment early for this disease than we can take comfort in that.  My son is an incredibly loving courageous, strong young man and we have no doubt that he will dominate this latest opponent.  We could not be prouder of him.  Thank you to Dr. Plinske, Coach Liepold and Justin Beaver for their efforts on his behalf to help him raise money to cover his expenses and the treatments that are not covered by insurance.  My love for football, the Warhawk family and especially #33 is unending.  The outpouring of love and support that he and our family have received is overwhelming and we thank everyone for their kind words and continuous support and prayers.   

   And just in case it hasn't dawned on you gentlemen by now, let me just remind you that, yes, indeed, a woman kicked most of your asses in the WIAC pick em's the last few years.   

[Kira & Jaxon's Dad]

Thoughts and prayers are with you and your son.  He was a beast on the FB field and I know he will attack this with all the effort he did for the Warhawks.

Stay Strong and the Post Patterns Crew will always be here if you need us!

[retagent]

As a Johnnie fan, let me sincerely say that he is in my prayers in his fight for a swift and thorough recovery. Pro athletes Lance Armstrong, and, more recently, Phil Kessel, have beaten this disease, and shown that it has not affected their sports life in subsequent years. Let's hope the outcome is similar for A. J.

[D O.C.]

Wow!   

[Raider 68]

From all the OAC posters, our thoughts and prayers are with AJ Raebel and family as he works through his recovery.

Please keep us in touch with his progress.

[wildcat11]

413,

Nothing but the best to your son and your family.  I wish for nothing than a quick recovery and it sounds like he has a great support system in place to help him through this fight.  Please keep us informed on when he makes his full recovery.

[Gig Harbor Cat]

413  I just sent over a personal EM

GHC

[57Johnnie]

413,
Prayers and best wishes from this old Johnnie.
57

[KitchenSink]

My God - winning the playoff pick 'em saved some face after the regular season ass-kicking I guess I got ...   

Seriously, though.  Best wishes to the entire Raebel clan.  I just found out a friend got a real lump of coal in her Christmas stocking - a diagnosed brain tumor.  Seems like this a season of tough news.

It's hard, but I try to think positive.  Doctors are doing some pretty magical things these days, so I'm clinging to the hopes that both will overcome and have long, happy lives.  My prayers are with you.

[OzJohnnie]

My prayers to Raebel.

[badgerwarhawk]

This news is both saddening and shocking.  All of the Raebel's are in my thoughts.  Best wishes for a successful outcome.   

[BDB]

Dianne,

Best wishes to AJ and all of your family. I'll pray for the best. - Bob

[footballfan413]

Thanks for all the support.  A very tough time in our family but he is an amazing young man with a huge heart and I don't see how he can lose with all the prayers, love, support and good karma being put out into the universe by everyone.  We must stay positive and believe that he will be fine. 
          Thanks again to everyone for all your care and concern,
                       Dianne Raebel

[footballfan413]

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/ajraebel/journal

My son's journal entry from today.  Check out the guest book as well.  The stories, support and prayers are rolling in from all over this very special community that revolves around D-3 football.  An honor and a privilege for A.J. and the Raebel's to be a part of such a vast and supportive family!  Thanks again to all.