Heavy Heart
Wednesday, February 27th, 2013From Wednesday Mom – Janelle:
Yesterday I found out that a dear friend’s son, Ayden, was diagnosed with leukemia. He is only two years old and is unaware of what is going on, while his family is trying to come to terms with the disease. Ayden was a happy little boy with no known symptoms. He went to the doctor because of eye irritation from pink eye. But after a course of antibiotics and no relief, the pediatrician ordered blood work. As soon as the pediatrician got the results they were admitted to a major teaching hospital in the area. Further testing confirmed Ayden had leukemia. As I write this, Ayden is undergoing chemotherapy, and the long fight against cancer, and – hopefully – a healthy recovery.
I learned of this terrible news over the phone from my family. I was very upset and asked a lot of questions. Jack overheard me and was concerned about why I was so upset. When I got off the phone, I sat Jack down to explain. I told him that a friend of mine has a little boy who is Tate’s age, who is very sick. I explained that this disease can be fatal. I told Jack to never take his health for granted and that not only old people get sick. It is hard to explain the severity of cancer to a child. I did my best to let Jack know why I was so sad and hoped it made sense to him. I hugged both boys tightly and reminded myself not to fret over the little things in life. I’m so grateful to have a healthy family.
Other than the results of the blood tests, you would never know Ayden is sick. He is giggling and flirting with all the nurses. He thinks he is having a sleep over at the hospital because he spent the night there. I’m glad to know he is in good spirits and willing to fight this terrible disease. I can’t imagine the pain my friend, her husband and all their loved ones are feeling right now. You hear these stories happening and feel terrible for these kids; but when it’s someone you know, it hits hard, very hard. Please keep this sweet little boy and his family in your thoughts and prayers. They would greatly appreciate it.