Jay-Bird The Cancer Fighter

Psalm 28:7

At the age of ten, my grandson Jay was diagnosed with T-Cell Lymphoma in 1991. He underwent a variety of treatment protocols over the next two years, which brought about many difficult side effects.  Jay weathered the treatments and his doctors and nurses soon discovered that he was his own person.  He would tell them when he was ready for the spinal taps, IV's and so on.  It seemed that he would go into a zone of his own and when he was ready, he'd say OK!



Our son and daughter-in-law, and Jay's younger brother, were the strength that he could rely on.  They endured everything as a family and learned that there was help from outside their immediate circle.  They were blessed with many friends who helped in dark times.  They received prayers from family and friends all over the country.  When Jay lost his hair, five of his fourth grade friends shaved their heads to show support.  These gestures were comforting to them because they believe in our Lord Jesus Christ.  Their faith never wavered, their hope was always present, and they felt the love of all who surrounded them.

When Jay was undergoing treatments, there was often an activity for the children to do while waiting for the doctor.  One therapist suggested a drawing contest, the subject being how the child was coping with cancer.  Jay enjoyed drawing and coloring so he thought that would be fun to do.  He drew his character, Jay-Bird, as a boy with a sword attacking cancer germs.  It was colorful and to the point, and to this day hangs in the children's cancer clinic waiting room at Scottish-Rite Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, which is where Jay received all his care.

Jay and his family's story illustrates what prayer and hope can do for those who need courage and strength in handling what comes their way.  Because they believed so strongly in their Lord Jesus, they were able to accept what was happening.  They had times of sadness and worry, but with their faith, they were able to be positive about the outcome, no matter what.

Today, Jay is a healthy happy father of twins.

Hellen B. for St. Mark Presbyterian Lenten Devotional, 2005