I can't think of many other words that strike such intense fear in the heart of a parent as "cancer." It is a word one never, ever wants to hear about any loved one, especially one's own child. Over the past few months our family has become very familiar with the word, cancer. Our 10 year old son, Cole was diagnosed with Burkitt's non-hodgkins lymphoma on April 1st (and no, it wasn't a bad April fool's joke, I asked).
Upon hearing our seemingly healthy child had cancer, we were completely devastated and heartbroken. Why Cole? Why now? Why ever? Why oh why? I, of course, lamented and wrestled over these very selfish questions for weeks. Cole was able to wrap his brain around and accept his diagnosis in less than 12 hours. Did I mention how incredible this kid is?
So how does this work? Chris and I have jobs. And 2 other children. And no other family around. And a child that will now be spending lots of time in the hospital. And, how does this work?
OK, let's try and move the focus from me to my sick child. Let's not worry about how my laundry will get done, or getting Sydney to dance on time, or making sure my plants are watered. There's nothing like an illness to put things in perspective for you. (I wasn't really worried about my plants, by the way)
It was only because so many people rallied around us that we made it through that really dark period. I didn't need to worry about my laundry, or getting Sydney to dance on time or my plants because it was all being taken care of by others. So many others. Some I have thanked, many I have not. Chris and I were and still are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness and love. And prayer. Oh the prayers. Can I just tell you how powerful prayer is???
Well, it's been almost 2 months since D-Day (diagnosis day). Cole is doing incredibly well. He's had 4 barium enemas (yikes), 1 colonoscopy, 2 surgeries, several weeks in the hospital, 2 rounds of chemo (yuck, by the way) and too many needle pokes to count, thus far. We are awaiting a body scan (June 7th) which will tell us whether or not he will need more treatment. We are hopeful, as is our doctor that his body will be clear of any cancer cells. Until then, we anxiously await our summer break to officially begin. Cole hopes to play a little baseball, enjoy a few Sonic happy hours and just try "normal" for a change.
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
(Isaiah 41:10)
