So many people have done so many kind things for us, and I would literally write a novel if I tried to acknowledge everyone. But since I am posting a picture of Nico and his new quilt, I thought I would mention that this quilt that came from Nico’s school. All of his school friends used fabric paint to put their handprints on it and the quilt is just lovely. Nico’s teachers (Miss Alyana and Miss Sophie) presented the quilt to him, and Nico felt so special (the picture makes this obvious). I am also including some pictures of Nico taken today after chemo. As you will see, he looks great and is handling everything like a true warrior (if you are reading this on Caring Bridge, you can find the pictures on WarriorNico.com, right after this post).
When Nico was first diagnosed, I tried to find a children's book that would speak to a child Nico’s age about struggles and trials while still imparting hope. I did not find anything online (and stores are pretty much off limits now). Then I picked up a book Nico had gotten for Christmas to read to him, and found that we already owned the book for which I was searching. Jeff and I read this book to Nico frequently. Sometimes it makes me cry, but it always gives me hope. I am going to include part of it here. Thank you, Dr. Seuss.
All Alone!
Whether you like it or not,
Alone will be something
you’ll be quite a lot.
And when you’re alone, there’s a very good chance
you’ll meet things that scare you right out of your pants.
There are some, down the road between hither and yon,
that can scare you so much you won’t want to go on.
But on you will go
Though the weather be foul.
On you will go
Though your enemies prowl.
On you will go
Through the Hakken-Kraks howl.
Onward up many
A frightening creek,
Though your arms may get sore
And your sneakers may leak.
On and on you will hike.
And I know you’ll hike far
and face up to your problems
whatever they are.
And will you succeed?
Yes! You will indeed!
(98 and ¾ percent guaranteed.)
KID, YOU’LL MOVE MOUNTAINS
So…
Be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray
Or Nicholas John Snow Tibbels O’Shea
You’re off to Great Places!
Today is your day!
Your mountain is waiting.
So … get on your way!
From: Oh, the Places You'll Go! By Dr. Seuss