The first day of chemo was a success! Besides having a contagiously positive attitude, Jadan was an inspiring example of courage and humor. He was welcomed by the front desk receptionist with an empowering message:
Difficult times in life allow us to exercise our strength. They are also an opportunity to further strengthen capabilities that enhance our commitment to personal growth and, at the same time, help us connect to others with love and kindness. Sharing words that empower others, especially in times of difficulty, not only gives encouragement and support but also acknowledges the person’s unique experience and great capacity to overcome the hardship. Halfway through treatment, Jadan acknowledged his strength and made a fond reference to his personalized wristband.
The first day of chemo began with cleaning the port area, giving saline for hydration, a steroid, and two anti-nausea medications. Then, an hour of etoposide was followed by an hour and a half of cisplatin. Overall, we were in therapy from 8 am until 1:15 pm.
Jadan’s nurse, Danuta, was exceptionally kind and attentive. She brought snacks and a drink to help with light dizziness and often checked in on Jadan during his infusion.
Art was created, inspired by deep gratitude and appreciation for science and the arts, which is expressed through the following Baháʼí prayer:
O God, O Thou Who hast cast Thy splendor over the luminous realities of men, shedding upon them the resplendent lights of knowledge and guidance, and hast chosen them out of all created things for this supernal grace, and hast caused them to encompass all things, to understand their inmost essence, and to disclose their mysteries, bringing them forth out of darkness into the visible world! “He verily showeth His special mercy to whomsoever He will.”¹
O Lord, help Thou Thy loved ones to acquire knowledge and the sciences and arts, and to unravel the secrets that are treasured up in the inmost reality of all created beings. Make them to hear the hidden truths that are written and embedded in the heart of all that is. Make them to be ensigns of guidance amongst all creatures, and piercing rays of the mind shedding forth their light in this, the “first life.”² Make them to be leaders unto Thee, guides unto Thy path, runners urging men on to Thy Kingdom.
Thou verily art the Powerful, the Protector, the Potent, the Defender, the Mighty, the Most Generous.
The Zentangle Method of mindful art making is founded in gratitude and appreciation. It is easy to learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. It provides artistic satisfaction along with an increased sense of personal well-being.
During chemotherapy days, I will create art through the Zentangle Method. I will also share an introduction to this mindful art form and invite all to create their own art founded in gratitude and appreciation.
For those wanting to learn the mindful Zentangle Method, you will need: one pencil, paper of your choice, and a black Micron pen 01 or 05. If you do not have a Micron pen, any kind of pen you have will suffice. On chemo day 2, we will learn the 8 steps of the Zentangle Method and one or two of the fundamental tangles: crescent moon and printemps.
Until tomorrow…may you immerse yourselves in the beauty that surrounds you.
Soul Gardening: Jadan's Cancer Journey 