Stories by Lisa Buell
Story Teller
That Kind of Nursing
About
Our daughter Madison was diagnosed with cancer at five months old. The support we received from our community was overwhelming. We went from a two-income family to a one-income family overnight. After our first week at Stanford Children’s Hospital, we came home to find our refrigerator full, our house clean, and our friends eager to help with whatever was needed.
Our family was unique to the hospital staff, not because Madison had two moms, but because of the steady stream of visitors we received. The staff had never witnessed such support for one family before. Every challenge we faced was met with incredible love and generosity. We received gift cards for gas and food. Dinners were organized by friends. Swimming at Polly’s puddle and our trip to Disneyland were very special to us. Our counselor, our hairdresser, and Maddy’s healer all donated their time. Co-workers donated six months of their own sick days, which enabled both of us to be with Madison full-time.
Having a child with cancer can paralyze a family. Because of our community we stayed in motion. Our friends and family carried us through and never let us fall. By helping with our most basic needs, they gave us the chance to focus on what really mattered – every moment with our daughter. Our thanks to everyone who was part of our lives; you made such a difference.
When a child has cancer, it affects the entire family and, sometimes, a whole community. This is just a glimpse into our lives at the time.
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