Friday, September 5, 2008- Letter to Parents of Children Fighting Cancer

Here is a letter I wrote to a family who's child is fighting Leukemia. I just wanted to share it with you so if you know anyone (hopefully you do NOT) you could share the sentiment. Steve and I are doing okay. Being busy helps and hinders us. I told Ms. Grace yesterday, "I'm not used to this stress!" and she just looked at me and said, "now, Gwen . . ." So I guess the more accurate statement would be I'm not used to being in traffic, rushing from place to place and feeling like I am spinning my wheels and getting nothing done. So much is falling through the cracks. I am dreading the 19th and just to make it worse, I have scheduled my first session with a personal trainer that morning. Maybe I can just fatigue myself out of that day! Wish me luck! Zoe is doing well. She still dances to her own beat and is very head strong. (I have NO idea where she gets that trait!!) I have put some pics from our last camping trip at Steamboat Lake up. I hope you enjoy them. So here's the letter:

Our mutual friend, xxxx, told me about your precious little girl. Our son, Alexander, lost his fight against brain cancer last December, and I may or may not know exactly what you are going through. I just wanted you to know that you CAN do this. You can do this for your little girl because every ounce of strength you muster helps strengthen her. Your smile helps her feel better. Your laughter fills her heart and gives her comfort. Your care and tender touch heals her soul and lifts her spirits. She is a precious soul that will never leave you nor stop feeling and knowing your love. And the gift is, neither will you ever know a day without knowing her love and spirit. Hold your baby girl, talk to her, sleep when you can, but if you need caffeine don't hesitate to take all that TCH has!!!

I wish I could tell you (lil girl's name) will make it through this unfair test of her physicality, but I don't know that. I do know that TCH is an incredible facility with amazing doctors and specialist. My prayer is that you feel that your child is getting the best care. If not, then fight for it!! You are ALWAYS right and should always be listened to when it comes to (little girl's name) care. Do not hesitate to speak up for her.

Alex told my husband one night, "Daddy, if you get scared you can hold my hand." Sometimes I wonder if these souls know that they are here to make us better. To give us insight into the blessings and trials of humanity. I bet you know what I am speaking about.
If you ever would like to meet and just hug one another, talk, drink coffee or anything; please do not hesitate to ask. I would be honored to run to and fro the hospital for you. To bring you "non-hospital" food. To do anything that would make your life easier. Just ask and I will be there. Does your dog need walked? Your house need cleaned? Your car need a tune or fill up? Just ask. Please know that (little girl's name) and her entire tribe of friends and family are in my prayers and that I have complete trust in your abilities to take care of your dear child.

God bless.