My mom, dad, sister and I all rushed to pack my duffel bags that hadn't been used in over three months. I had trouble deciding which craft to bring, and eventually decided on latch hooking. Since I was pretty stressed, I knew that tugging on tiny pieces of yarn would help calm me down. Anyway, I have recently gotten a latch hook rug that is a picture of a bear holding a heart. I want to give this to Lisa when I'm done with it.
Dr. Welington ushered all four of us into her office and shut the door. She has been my doctor throughout my whole leukemia experience. She's practically part of our family. I've learned that even family members have bad news. This time, it's very bad news. She says that the leukemia is back. I've been dreading those four words ever since I was able to receive remission three months ago. Now I know why I needed to pack my bags. I'm glad I brought a large rug.
The first thing I do in the hospital, after unpacking, is call Lisa. She deserves to know. Even though we've only just become friends, it feels like we've been friends forever. Throughout my phone conversation, I kept dreading the words "I guess I'll see you at school." Every other friend that I've had has said that to me when I'm hospitalized. Luckily, those words never were mentioned over the phone. Instead, the conversation went pretty well.
"Hey Lisa, how are you?"
"I'm pretty good Gabbi, how are you? I didn't recognize the Caller ID on my phone. Where are you?"
"I'm not that great. I'm in the hospital."
"Oh my gosh Gabbi! Are you okay? When are you coming home? What happened? Gabbi? Tell me!"
"I'm okay, well, right now I am. I'm not sure when I'm coming home, maybe a week, maybe a couple of months. Do you promise not to freak out when I tell you what happened?"
"I promise. I swear on my life that I won't freak out. We're friends, remember?"
"Okay … wow. I hoped that I'd never have to tell you this, but I've had a relapse."
"Lisa, are you there?"
"Wow. Wow. That's pretty big. But don't worry, I can get your homework and everything. I'll visit you every day! I'll even make you my famous chocolate chip cookies to make you feel better!"
"Thanks Lisa. You make things a lot better. Well, I have to go. The nurse is here to take me for some tests. Will I see you soon?"
"You bet Gabbi. Be brave, and remember I'm always here for you. Whatever you need, I'm willing to give it. I'll be there faster than a firefly being chased by a net."
Sometimes, Lisa just makes me laugh. I'm thankful for that, because it's easier to have blood drawn when you're thinking of your friend's funny phrases rather than what's going to happen in a week, or a month. But true to her word, Lisa was in my room when I got back from the tests. She really is a wonderful friend. I had better get going on that rug for her. She deserves a present for her good friendship.