At Luc's last treatment, I met a mother, Calleen Williams, at the Parents' Break. She was waiting for her 3-year-old daughter who was in surgery. She told me that little Caitlyn was the third of her four children to be diagnosed with this rare brain tumor. Her 8-year-old son was the first and he had done treatment 4 years before and is currently in remission. In September their 1-year-old was diagnosed with the same type of cancer. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy. The doctors had found that this is genetic, so they brought little Caitlyn in to have genetic testing and found that she had the gene (their 12-year-old daughter does not have the gene). They immediately took her in for a scan and found a 5 cm tumor in her brain (she had not had any symptoms). November 11th was the day I met Calleen when Caitlyn was in surgery. The surgeons were hoping to be able to remove the whole tumor and not have to have any further treatments.
I found out that Caitlyn passed away at 2:30 p.m. yesterday. I feel like I have been hit in the stomach. Even though I didn't know Caitlyn, and had only talked with Calleen a short time, I am grieving for them. I just wanted to put out a plea for prayers for the Williams family. I know this is extremely difficult for them. They are mourning their daughter and also have to go through treatment with their little son. If anyone is going to the temple soon, please put the Williams family on the prayer roll.
As far as Luc is concerned, He is doing really well. This break has been absolutely wonderful. He is feeling good and he even has a five-o-clock shadow on his head! His next treatment starts January 2nd. We are so grateful he has been able to enjoy the holidays and feel a little more normal.
At this season (and always), we are eternally thankful for our Savior. We know that He suffered all things for us, and that He is walking with us in our journey. We know that He is comforting the Williams family, and all those around the world who are mourning. We are grateful for the records that were kept that give an account of his life, ministry, and atonement. We are thankful for His grace and the hope we have through Him. May your Christmas be filled with His grace and unwavering hope.
Marley
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