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How will you handle life's blows?

2/2/2015

6 Comments

 
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A teenager battling cancer with just days to live has fulfilled his last wish by taking his girlfriend to his school prom.

He was diagnosed with terminal T-Cell Lymphoma in August last year. When his condition deteriorated and scans showed cancer had spread throughout his body, the Scottish High school brought the annual prom date forward.

The teenager needed pain relief to attend and his family feared he wouldn't survive the whole night at the event. More than 200 teachers and tearful pupils applauded his 10 minute effort, which he managed with courage and determination.

In his last days, he'll be raising cash for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research charity. 'Team Jak' will offer additional support for youngsters battling cancer. Thanks to hundreds of supporters worldwide, he has raised more than £33,000 in less than a week.

The young couple had been going out for almost two years.

What a story that young girl will have to tell in the future, although I'm sure that's the last thing on her mind right now. Some traumatic events live in the memory our whole lives. They can 'either make us or break us.' I hope she accepts this stroke of fate with the same fortitude as he showed.

I'm sure painful events have affected us all. I've lived through a divorce, moved alone to another country and found a job there, seen the death of two of my adult children and a separation from the third, and now I'm supporting my wonderful second husband with his prostate cancer. Each strike from life's hammer has made me a stronger person.

How about you?





6 Comments
Dominique Goh link
2/1/2015 06:07:54 pm

Life sure throws us curve balls at times and it's through sheer determination and GODS help that we get through this tough times. It's great to read that even though in his illness this teenage boy is trying to help others around him.

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Donna Ward link
2/2/2015 02:41:50 am

Courageous story - brought tears to my eyes, Francene - it takes courage and awareness not to have a 'victim' attitude

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Debbie D. link
2/2/2015 03:03:38 am

What a heartbreaking story, but that boy's courage is remarkable! Losing your children must have been devastating and I'm glad you are able to get beyond that, Francene. I went through a hellish two year period, during which time my father succumbed to lung cancer (terrible to witness and be completely ineffectual!) and my mother sunk deeper into dementia. What kept me going was remembering everything to be grateful for and also that things could always be worse. My favourite saying is: "Whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger". True! Best wishes to your husband.

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Amy Bovaird link
2/2/2015 04:15:39 am

This makes me smile. I love your directness and the way you carve out your life attitude. Though you are struggling and so many miles away, you are a comfort to me, I am sorry about everything you have gone through and are facing now. And I'm adding you to my prayer list. Anything I can do, please let me know.
Amy xx

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Bonnie Gean link
2/2/2015 04:18:20 am

Hi Francene,

Sorry to hear about your husband. My prayers are with both of you during this time.

I only have one daughter, but I have three grandchildren. I would be a lost soul if I lost any of them. I don't believe it's natural to bury your children, though I know it happens far too often.

I admire those who have the strength to endure such a tragedy. I cannot bear the thought of it happening, let alone what I would do if it actually came to pass.

Goodness, where do you get the strength?

- Bonnie

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Alana link
2/2/2015 04:59:46 am

This brought back memories of a childhood friend who died from leukemia at a time (mid 1960's) when leukemia was a death sentence. Currently, the teenaged grandson of a former manager is under treatment for leukemia and his prognosis is a lot more positive. I am in awe of those with terminal illnesses who spend their final days fundraising, raising awareness, or whatever they are called to, because it is so hard - so physically painful for them. I think of you and your husband a lot, Francene.

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    Francene Stanley
    From England, I use news items in my novels which you can see below, all linked to an Amazon near you.

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