Entry # 6: Kalle

On Mother's Day 2006 I found out that my sister Carol was pregnant with her second child. Her first daughter, Nell, is such a wonderful addition to our family that we were all excited that Carol was expecting her second baby. Unfortunately, just two weeks later Carol was diagnosed with breast cancer. We were all concerned about Carol and this new baby she was carrying. Luckily, Carol found the best doctors and was able to receive the best care for both herself and her unborn child. Every doctor Carol talked to reassured her that she could begin chemotherapy and carry her child full term without any problems. What a relief it was to all of us to know that because of the advances in medical treatment my sister and her unborn baby would both be fine. During Carol's pregnancy she went through a full round of chemotherapy that did not affect the baby one bit. Although it was not an easy time, Carol survived the treatment and being pregnant with much grace and dignity. During this time her little daughter Nell was her loudest cheerleader! Every night Nell prayed that her mother and the baby would be cured and the cancer would go away. I know God heard those prayers and answered them on December 28, 2006 when Kalle Michael Smith was born. Although Carol lost her hair and was bald on the day she gave birth, her daughter came out with a full head of hair looking as healthy as could be. After Kalle was born Carol went through a more aggressive round of chemotherapy followed by radiation. And, just like with her previous treatments she handled it like a champ with her now two cheerleaders by her side every step of the way.

I think of this story and all of God's blessings when I see this picture of Kalle. I imagine her in Carol's womb with the light of prayers and God's love keeping her safe and healthy. Where the light hits the water and small twinkles of light are reflected I see my grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who are in heaven today with God. I know that each of them were looking down on Carol and also sending sparkles of love her way. This picture will forever remind me that love, hope and faith are what keep us all going and what creates miracles like Kalle - the littlest breast cancer survivor.

By the way, if you ever wonder if your donations to charities are actually doing any good, now you know they do. Although a cure for breast cancer has not yet been found, Kalle is living proof of the advancements in treatment! So, next time you are asked to give to a charity to fight cancer or some other disease know that every dollar you donate is making a difference!

-Gayle