Mom Is Cancer Free!

My Dearest Friends,

My mommy is cancer free! And I will spend the rest of my life proclaiming the greatness of our Miraculous Healer.

Since we first heard of Mom's diagnosis of Stage Four Non-Hodgkins Mantle Cell Lymphoma last year, my family have hit their knees and begged for Heaven to intercede. We poured our hearts out to the saints: St. Jude, St. Peregrine, St. Rita, Blessed Stanley Rother, Father Simon Brute, and Sister Clare Crockett, alongside sweet Boosie and Pappy and Gaga and Gramps. Our Mass attendance ticked up. My sister-in-law converted. We rallied.

But the first few weeks I lay awake at night, hyperventilating and wondering how I would endure pregnancy, pursue adoption or raise children without Mom. Peter would wake up hearing my stifled sobs, take down our marriage crucifix above our bed, and clasp my hands tightly around it. I couldn't imagine my Dad—so young and healthy—living decades without her. I couldn't picture my nieces and nephews growing up without their DeeDee. I couldn't fathom a future without my Mommy.

And after a year of treatment, we received our miracle.

Throughout it all, my parents' faith has been unshakeable—white knuckles on rosaries, eyes steeled on the Cross, anxieties and fears tucked deep within the chambers of their hearts as they clung to hope like an anchor. We might have to draw upon that newfound strength again in the future if she ever comes out of remission, but for now, our hearts are aligned with the Lord, He who can bring the dead back to life, and our hearts are overflowing with gratitude to you—the prayers this community has offered to Mom has overwhelmed us, and we are truly and deeply eternally grateful. 

Prayer can move mountains, and it did.

I love you all, and whatever crosses you are carrying—BE BOLD AND HOPE!—for we are in this together.

xoxo

Carolyn