We have been preparing ourselves for this week for days. Going into Jadan’s last week of chemo is filled with many emotions. Gratitude for all the love and support that has been a constant reminder of not being alone, and grieving the loss of life as it was before. Also, feelings of excitement, hope, optimism, and curiosity as to what the future will hold. We have talked about future plans all through chemotherapy, and are finally getting close to making those plans a reality. We have three exciting events happening in May: Anya graduates from 5th grade, Kyler graduates from high school, and Bella graduates from Lewis & Clark.
One undeniable truth connecting every human being is that we will all face death in our own time. Over the last year, experiencing time has been redefined. It used to be that time revolved around a clock—time to wake up, eat, work, etc., and it often felt like time wasn’t enough, as if it was a commodity or resource. Now, during chemotherapy, our time is filled with taking actions that will cure Jadan’s cancer. We are surrounded by precious souls who may or may not have the favorable prognosis we gratefully have. Some are given notice that their time is approaching, yet continue to live with grace, purpose, and peace. But the truth is, we all exist in time outside the clock, whether we realize it or not. It is what we do with the little time we have in this moment that matters. Reflecting on the human life span reminds me of Carl Sagan’s Pale Blue Dot cosmic perspective.
Jadan received his words of encouragement upon checking in. This small token of love and support is one of the first things we look forward to, along with being greeted with warm welcomes by Jadan’s care staff. Everyone was very excited to see Jadan, especially since this was his last week of treatment. So many have taken a liking to Jadan. They see their kids in him and have a special investment and interest in his healing.
Once treatment began, the nausea kicked in. Afterward, he could enjoy a little bit of a second breakfast. Good old McDonald’s breakfast burritos with hot picante did the trick. From that point, Jadan managed to rest through the rest of his treatment. Hearing the bell ring was one of the highlights of our first day back. One of the patients completed their treatment and marked the occasion by ringing the bell. Everyone clapped with excitement. Knowing that Jadan will be ringing the bell on Friday inspires anticipation and renewed commitment to finish this week strong.
Jadan had a warm welcome from Po and Subi. They surrounded Jadan and were happy to see him. It was nice to see a smile on his face after today’s rough first day. The rest of the afternoon was dedicated to rest and food.
Only 4 more days!!!
Today’s Art is inspired by gratitude for science:
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.
Soul Gardening: Jadan's Cancer Journey 