THE GRINSTEAD FAMILY

COUNTING MY BLESSINGS

Allie had her friend Hunter over to play after school today. Hunter was diagnosed with Burkitt's Lymphomia on the last day of school last year. Needless to say, Hunter has had a rough few months battling cancer. He spent a lot of the summer in Iowa City getting chemo. He has 1 more treatment left and then he's done with chemo, hopefully FOREVER! He is now considered cancer-free. I can see why this little guy beat this horrible disease...for him it was 100% attitude. For a 6 year old, he is so grown up and so happy. He's a polite, sweet little boy that could have a conversation with anyone willing to chat. He questions everything & truly wants to know answers. I've never seen him without a giant smile on his face. What neat kid, who didn't deserve to have cancer. He even wears a scarf to cover his head, which is bald from the chemo, the scarf reads "Cancer Fears Me". Go Hunter!!

As I sit here tonight I am counting my blessings. I can't imagine being Hunter's mom. She told me that most moms wonder what their kids will be when they grow up...she just wonders if he'll grow up. Ouch! That felt like a punch in my gut, I can't imagine how she must feel. I wanted to cry for her. I hope that I never have to watch one of my kids go through what she's seen with Hunter. She is amazing.

So tonight, I held my kids a little tighter when I tucked them into bed. I was sure not to forget to go in and cover them up. I gave them one last kiss on the forehead. I was certain that they heard I love you more than once today. I am lucky to have happy, healthy kids. Sometimes, I need to be reminded of that every once in awhile. Thanks Hunter for making me count my beautiful blessings!

Hunter & Allie hanging out. Note Hunter's scarf says "Cancer Fears Me".