Today is two years that Daniela was diagnosed with ALL. Right about now she was probably still getting her first pint of blood. Someone asked me how I felt today. I feel sad, relief, happy all rolled up into one. The incredible sadness that I once felt has definetly passed but still the thought of what she went through still brings tears to my eyes. I can't believe it's been two years already! It went by super fast. I remember every detail of 4/21/07. Every detail. I can almost still smell the day. the hospital. The tears. I remember one of my first posts when i talked about the two years that awaited us and now it is finally here. With a different twist. We are now counting the number of clinic visits she has left. 3. We are so happy that she is almost done. What will I talk about? I still talk about her illness so much. I guess it just defines us. But sooner or later, it will be history. As in see ya later medicine...but a part of family history nonetheless. We have learned so much over the last two years and I hope that we are better people for it.
As far our kids...they are great. Daniela is a trip and I am happy to say that tonight I bought her 4 new shirts. She now has 6 just about one for everyday. She has also graduated from a long sleeve shirt to a short sleeve shirt (or upsleeve as she calls it.) Her sister has the same exact shirts. I had to seize the moment and run out to the store tonight since she was so excited about Christina's shirts. Christina? She's doing equally well. So sweet. She's growing up so fast. She's a little lady. Doing great in school, loving her jazz class and is taking up softball this spring. Adores her sister. They have such incredible bond. They love to play together and just be together . They fight too but more often than not they are lovin each other.
Christina is into writing on my blackberry...a few weeks ago she left us a note.
"Mom and Dad I love you. I know my sister got canser but I don't know why?"
Boy was I stumped. Of course, she's older now and now she wants to know. So I chose my words wisely and did the best I could. She bought into it so I'm good to go for the next couple of years.
Soooo, we aren't so sad anymore. Daniela is great. We celebrate her and love her to infinity and beyond. And although we will always worry about her health and all the crazy what if scenarios that go with this awful cancer - we know that she has the best doctors to care for her for as long as possible. From now on we just celebrate. Celebrate the success of the last two years. Celebrate her NO MORE CHEMO . Celebrate with her and her big bash this summer. Celebrate all the singing she does. I love that kid. I love both my kids.
Say a little prayer for her tonight and for all kids fighting cancer....peace.
My Baby now....
Two years ago....4/22/07.
Unbelievable post Fran. You have such strength and courage - I don't think you realize how you have touched other people's lives with your posts. Daniela and Christina are lucky to have you and Casey. We'll always have Daniela in our prayers and are so grateful that she's healthy and almost done! Can't wait to see you soon:)
DeAnne
Posted by: DeAnne Keady | April 24, 2009 at 02:04 PM
You truly are an inspiration to all. I love to read your posts and keep up on Danielle's progress. It is a HAPPY anniversary to all of you! You are an amazing writer and an even more amazing mother! God Bless you and your family always.
Posted by: LESLIE | April 27, 2009 at 11:05 AM
Dear Fran,
You made me cry. What wonderful pictures...what courage you all have.
Love, Linda
Posted by: Linda Mandarino | April 29, 2009 at 08:10 PM
You have such an incredible talent for writing...you capture the reader in the first sentence.
Congrats to ALL of you...you continue to be in our thoughts and prayers down here in Atlanta!
Love - Christine
Posted by: Christine Mack | May 11, 2009 at 10:32 AM