Soul Gardening: Jadan's Cancer Journey

Grief is like a river. Sometimes, the water has been turbulent, powerful, and fast-moving, while other times, it has been slow, gentle, and soothing as it ebbs and flows, always evolving. On June 5th, four months to the day our precious family member passed away, we learned that our son Jadan had cancer. We were still immersed in the river of grief and missing our family member as the news of cancer once again turned our world upside down. Fortunately, this time, we were told that our son’s cancer is curable. After a long two weeks, pathology results showed a mixed tumor type, with 80% known to respond exceptionally well to chemo, while the remaining 20% didn’t.  The treatment approach for that tumor type would be another surgery. We also learned there has been cancer growth, but we do not know which type has spread. According to our recent oncology visit, Jadan is at stage 3.

This blog marks the start of a journey of love, faith, and healing as we accompany and support him during chemotherapy treatments and complete recovery. It is our vision to build a strong network of support to empower and encourage Jadan as he makes a full recovery and to provide family and friends the opportunity to join us on this journey. I’ll post regular updates with highlights and photos over the next several months.

Please keep Jadan and his care team in your prayers for protection and healing. During his 12 weeks of treatment, an art-inspired prayer campaign that connects our hearts with love and prayer will be shared. Jadan loves art, especially music. All are welcome to send inspired art, such as chanting and/or singing prayers, playing music, poetry, reciting favorite quotes, etc.

Jadan is strong, courageous, resilient, and determined to recover fully and live life to the fullest. Your love and support are a gift and a source of strength, especially during the next few months as we isolate to keep Jadan cold and COVID-free.

“Blessed is he who in the prime of his youth and the heyday of his life will arise to serve the Cause of the Lord of the beginning and of the end, and adorn his heart with His love.”

Bahá’u’lláh