The cancer was taking over Mary's body in ways no one thought possible. Within a week Mary was completely bedridden. Frank had taken time off from work to care for her, he also took the boys out of school so they could spend as much quality time with their mother as they could. They were all hoping Danny was going to make it home in time. It had been 9 days since they had last heard from him when he finally called.
"Dad? How is she?"
"Its bad son. I'm afraid its..." his fathers voice cracked and he had to stop talking.
"Dad, I'm trying, we're all trying. I'm leaving tonight, will take couple days...I'll be home soon. She just has to hold on...please dad" pleaded Danny. "She has to hold on 'til I get there."
"I know son" was all Frank could say.
Marys eyes started to open. "Danny?" She said very quiet and weak. "Let me." Frank walks to Mary's bedside and holds the phone to Mary's ear.
"Mama?" asked Danny, the tears he'd been holding back were now silently falling down his cheeks. "Hi mama. You hold on ok? I love you ma. I'm coming home. Just be strong and hold on." Danny begged his mother.
A slow calm smile appeared on Mary's face hearing her first borns voice. Quiet as a church mouse, and still very weak, but everyone in the room heard her say "shhh baby, its ok. Be still. I love you." She closed her eyes and Frank took the phone away. All he heard on the other end was the deep sobs of his oldest son.
"We love you son," said Frank calmly, "hurry home." He hung up the phone quickly, and hurried to the bathroom before his own emotions got out of control.