Kyle

For those of you have been reading this blog for a long time, you may remember Kyle. He was a little boy who was going through radiation at the same time as Jordan. He died this past Saturday. Kyle was an amazing little boy who made a huge impression on Brent, my sister Julie (who came to radiation with us), and I. He made the most of every moment. When he had to wear an eye patch because of the way the tumor affected his eyes, he came in a pirate costume to match. Since he had to navigate the hard, windy halls of UW hospital everyday, he wore his Heelies, so he could whip around the corners. And on the weekends, when most kids would be exhausted and sick, he tore down the mountain on his skis and scored the most goals on his soccer team. He inspired me each day we were there, and was the only thing I missed when radiation was over. I have also thought of his mom a lot since that time, as she came in each day with a smile acting as if they were coming to some social get together. I knew she was crying inside, but Kyle didn't. She is one of the bravest people I've met since this whole thing began. We were blessed to have known Kyle and grieve with his family in their loss of such an incredible little boy.

The Cancer Club

Yesterday was Jenna's memorial. Chris and Michele, her parents, did an amazing job of honoring their daughter's life. I listened to stories of events from her life and wished I could have been there. Jenna will be missed so much.

Sitting in the service I looked around and saw many familiar faces. They were at all corners of the church. The cancer club, I call it. Parents who have lost a child and the others of us who fear it everyday. They came in their deepest pain, from far away, and some were there who didn't even know them very well, but were there to support Chris and Michele.

Everyday, I wish I could escape this club of fear and watching those I care about suffer, but yesterday I felt honored to be a part of the group. They are a group of inspirational parents who have sacrificed everything for their children, who have reached deep for strength to endure each day, and who have demonstrated amazing love in their darkest times. For their children, and for each other. We have been bonded together in the most horrific of circumstances, but I am a better person because I know them.