paper thin, but had expanded when the mass was removed. Then came more news. The nerves in the L1-L2 area had been “obliterated”- she would most likely never walk. I used to dream of my daughters walking through fields of flowers, hand-inhand. A dream that should be so sweet, tortured me, because at that point, I didn’t think it was ever going to be a possibility. So, we were left with that. She had survived surgery. We would fight for her life with chemo, blood and platelet transfusions. I am so thankful that I have the family that I do. Not everyone has that support. My dear mother stayed night after night in the hospital. Without her I could not have weathered this. Laken spent much time with her Grandma and Grandpa on the campaign trail. They are also very dear to me, and I am glad Laken had their influence during this time. I am thankful for my entire family. We stood together, and that made all the difference. We were put on countless prayer lists around the state, and it is amazing the effect that can have on a difficult situation. There is no language to describe the thankfulness that burns in my heart. Also, our community dropped off dinners, left encouraging notes… I will never forget. In the end, we must all save each other. Thank you to the many people who provided that lesson. We still fight for progress. Though we face many complications (hip surgeries, tendon transfers, problems resulting from her Scoliosis, etc.) and worry about what the future holds for her, we
realize we have been blessed. Alexandria has come so far. She is truly a force to be reckoned with, as anyone who knows her can tell you. She is of the mindset that she can do anything, and frequently reminds us that she, in fact, isn’t “afraid of anything!” I believe her. Also, I must add that Laken has been her greatest fan, and biggest supporter. I learn a lesson from that little prodigy every day. We cannot forget the impact that illness has on siblings; they suffer much in their own way. But they also provide so much encouragement, and by the way, these two sisters just might conquer the world. Alexandria, after many castings, heel cord extension surgeries, etc., is now walking with the aid of plastic braces. (Pink! Of course!) Things are definitely harder for her, but you’ll never hear her complain. The falls she takes make me cringe, but up she pops, with a smile or even a laugh and a quick “I’m okay!” I let her give me the comfort she offers, as she knows I worry. Even though a massive bruise might appear the next day, she refuses all sympathy. She visits Pediatric Therapy Associates twice a week to “work.” They make it a lot of fun for her and it has produced great support, better balance, and progress -and I am ever grateful for that. (I will be conducting pediatric yoga classes along with the great therapists at Pediatric Therapy Associates this summer -- please see our ad in this issue. All children are welcome!) Since Alexandria’s diagnosis, I have decided that I cannot travel the world on modelling jobs as I used to, and I am truly enjoying my new career as a real estate agent. My family and I have decided to work with ACH. I know the idea of kids battling cancer is a hard topic for people to cope with – and I understand 48 Your Hometown Magazine