A few weeks ago, I heard through the swim circle about one of the swimmers I had met from our old swim team had relapsed with cancer. If I remember correctly she was diagnosed the summer of 2011. I tie this around swim events that I recollect. She was one of the high school swimmers and from what I hear an amazing wrestler. I only had a few opportunities to interact with her personally, but I loved the influence she had on my daughter. Her name is Lauren. I loved her sparkle and spunk. I loved so much that she had the courage and passion to participate in a sport that had few women participating in. She was also an amazing swimmer and just an all around great athlete. As a mother of a daughter, I couldn't wish for a better role model. Unfortunately, her first diagnosis removed her from swimming and we would only hear about her progress through the swim social circle. But she has NEVER been forgotten and she and her family have always remained in our thoughts.
I heard that she relapsed with Ewing Sarcoma and this time around it's more aggressive. Having spent three years in pediatric oncology with my own small child I know this is not good. I recollect those years in the pediatric oncology life and can't help but wonder why so many of our beautiful children with such amazing spirits, have to be struck with such aggressive diseases. I believe that all children have potential to do and be amazing, but some just have that something extra special about them. These young lives with such bright sparks of life seem to be struck more often than those who are unkind, mean spirited, and cruel to others. Don't get me wrong I do not wish this diagnosis on anyone. It's just an observation. That suffering does not typically come to those who, I hate to say it, actually, could use a little suffering for the suffering they inflicted upon others. There I said it. And in my mind, it's unfair to rob these amazing individuals of the wonder lives they deserve.
Since hearing about Lauren's relapse. Not only are my thoughts on her and how she must deal with her own illness, but on her parents and her brother. It's a personal tragedy for each one of them. They all love her so. C is deeply bothered and saddened for Lauren. C never got to meet her own sister who was another amazing person even if her life was very short. C said I think Lauren is going to be a miracle surprise. She's going to be like F and live a very long time. She will show the doctors. I hope so. I really do.
Lauren started a blog of her own. She has such grace. If you would like to be moved and inspired here is the link.
http://thenotdyinggirl.com
In the grand scheme of life, my problems and worries are so small in comparison. What we do today does matter and it matters most to those we love.
