This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Six weeks ago, when 9-year-old Dylan Shaw, of Plain City, began complaining of a headache every time he sneezed, coughed or laughed, his mother, Mandy Shaw — about ready to deliver her sixth child — had the usual thought: "He's being dramatic."

When he talked about falling down a lot, she worried a little more, but then went into labor.

But she couldn't get it out of her mind.

When Dylan came to see her and the new baby in the hospital, she knew something was wrong. "I really noticed something was off," she said. "His speech was a little slower and there was just something with his eyes."

That night, she told her husband that they needed of find out what was wrong with Dylan.

Ryan Shaw took Dylan to the doctor and based on his symptoms, the pediatrician thought Dylan possibly had a case of sinusitis and prescribed an antibiotic.

But Mandy was not satisfied. She pushed for an eye doctor appointment, a CT scan, and ultimately an MRI, the results of which were sent to Primary Children's Medical Center.

"The next day, our pediatrician called to deliver the terrible news. Dylan had a tumor in the stem of his brain," Mandy said. "He said they wanted to see us the next day and start radiation immediately." Ryan burst into tears and Mandy sat in shock.

Dylan's specific diagnosis is "diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma," an inoperable, malignant tumor in his brain stem.

Life changed quickly for the Shaws. The tumor is very aggressive and radiation therapy is the only treatment available. But Dylan maintains his sense of humor and loving personality. The Shaws also are pursuing alternative treatments.

"When you are faced with a situation like this, it certainly feels like you have been punched in the gut. It is so easy to feel like all of your flaws come to light," Mandy said. "You want to be better."

And Dylan is strong.

"He said when he grows up, he wants to be a comedian," Mandy said. "He is constantly telling jokes to anyone who will listen."

The Shaws try to keep life as light and regular as possible for Dylan. "He still gets in trouble when he picks on his little sisters," Mandy said. "Overall, he is the sweetest, kindest and most loving boy I have ever met. He wears his eye patch with style, his crooked smile with warmth and his newly buzzed head with happiness."

For updates on Dylan's condition, visit dylandshaw.blogspot.com/ —

Cancer treatment fundraiser

Dancing for Dylan, a fundraiser to help defray the costs of Dylan's treatment, will include dancers from drill teams and studios across the state (Mandy Shaw owns two dance studios).

When • 5:30-9 p.m., May 2

Includes • Silent auction from 5:30-8:30 p.m., May 2 (donations for the auction are still being accepted)

Where • Northridge High School, 2340 N. Hillfield Road, Layton

Updates on Dylan's condition • dylandshaw.blogspot.com/