There are moments in our lives when time stands still and you can replay ever minute as it passed, down to the sights, emotion and even smells. Well, five years ago was one of those moments when time stood still for our family; the day Lilly was diagnosed with cancer.
I remember the phone call Tiffany made me answer because she already knew in her heart what Lilly's diagnosis was. Because she had already received an answer to her prayers, though it wasn't what she was hoping for. I remember the saltiness of the tears that streamed down my face and wouldn't stop as we told Lilly the heart wrenching news. I remember watching Lilly say goodbye to everything in the house, her bed, her room, the dogs, the piano thinking that she would never see those things again.
Tiffany and I remember the wise council given by Gordon Mills as he took us aside and told us "no matter what happens, the choices are between the two of you and God and that you need to stand together." That's exactly what Tiffany and I have tried to do as we faced challenging decisions and opposition.
I remember arriving at the hospital and smell of the hand sanitizer as we walked through the doors to the cancer ward. I remember all the Dr.s and nurses that came into the room explaining to us Lilly's diagnosis and me feeling hollow inside and lost in their words as they spoke. I recall the helplessness I felt as knelt by Lilly's bedside holding her trembling hand.
I also remember the extreme kindness shown by so many as the kind words, notes, gifts and service actions poured in for Lilly and our behalf. There were so many memories of deep fear and hopelessness that we felt in those first few days, weeks and years. But, they were always overshadowed by the outpouring of love and generosity given by family, old friends and new friends that we made during these 5 years. We can't thank everyone enough, we can merely say we love you.
A lot has happened in these 5 years that has encouraged Lilly and our family to grow and change over the years. We hope that we can continue to face the future with the same fierce strength Lilly has shown to overcome her cancer. Lilly is a beautiful and amazing girl who has more empathy than anyone else I know. Our family has been blessed to have you as part of our family.
We love you Lilly.
Look how much she's grown into a beautiful young woman.
What a special family we've been blessed with.
These two sisters are nearly inseparable.
So glad she's the oldest so Emery and Gryffin can learn from her experiences.
We will always Be Brave 4 Lilly.
We will always Be Brave 4 Lilly.
