CANCER… that Can’t Be!
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CAN anyone really ever be ready for death? Are you one of the millions who hate to talk about it? Would you do anything to avoid thinking about it? Or have you ever experienced that deep feeling of fear and loss of purpose while attending the funeral of a friend? Then we want to share with you a true story—the story of Grace. |
Grace was born in Toronto, Canada on November 20, 1989. Grace’s happy childhood days were spent in a loving Christian home, along with her two younger brothers. Her school days were also well spent, as she graduated from grade eight with honors. Grace was a beautiful, sweet-natured girl who was well loved by all of her peers. Her face always glowed with unusual warmth and vivacity and her captivating smile always brought a sparkle to her soft brown eyes. Grace’s life was in full bloom until one morning in early July 2003.This is Grace’s story as it was published in her school yearbook and excerpts from her personal diary:
It was just after grade eight graduation.
I was so looking forward to a long summer break, but little did I know
that that summer would change my life. (Grace’s family was planning
a summer trip to the Rocky Mountains of Western Canada). In early July
2003, I started to feel tired every day. First checkups did not reveal
any problems, but I also started having severe attacks of pain in my abdomen,
lower back, and legs. I still was not expecting anything serious but this
time the tests showed a mass around my spinal canal.
The doctor started the arrangements to send me to Toronto Sick Children’s
Hospital. In a short time my pain increased extremely almost to the point
of my being immobile.
Before any of my sessions with a doctor, I would pray with my mom and dad together. I have to admit that I was quite scared sometimes, even to tears; however, deep down, I always had a sense of peace. I was thankful for being able to go to a good hospital. I was praying more than ever the following weeks. Since I was confined to the hospital the whole summer, I found much more time to read my bible every day. I felt my relationship with God was strengthening. He and I were becoming closer. I really felt his comfort and peace whenever I prayed.
Sometimes I would still ask why? Why me, God? It encourages me to remember that God has a purpose for everything (Romans 8:28). Near Christmas time (2003) I felt led to get baptized. I felt that since the Lord Jesus saved me and I became part of the family of God, I wanted my life to be a witness for Christ. I felt really good after that night. I was consecrating my life to God.
God helped me to pass grade nine with good marks with the help of my classmates and teachers. For this I am very thankful. I cannot imagine how difficult this experience would be without the Lord Jesus Christ. So all I can do is pray and depend on the Lord for the rest.” (Written from her hospital bed, late September 2004)