Journal entry by Stephanie Pellegrini —
Hi everyone, it's been a while since I have posted anything but just like everyone else, the hustle and bustle of the holidays, our trips to the hospital, and just regular real life stuff has given me little time to update.
I am soooooo excited to say that Vinny has successfully completed all of his rounds of Chemotherapy!! Our journey is not over yet but the light at the end of the tunnel is shining bright and we see it! We have our appointments scheduled for all his scans and with prayers and blessings we are hoping to be cancer free!
Throughout this time people are always telling you "be strong". The words "be strong" become numbing. What they should say is "Put your game face on". That's what it feels like anyway, you appear to be happy and ready on the outside but inside it's all butterflies and fear. The true image of strength is Vincent and every other human battling an illness. True strength is the smile that is on his face despite being connected to an IV pole. Strength is giving a parent a hug letting them know it's going to be ok. Strength is losing your hair at 7, putting a hat on, and carrying on. Strength is understanding that what is in your body making you sick does not define who you are. It is this very strength that has gotten us through this with minimal bumps along the way. It could have been so much worse if he had defaulted to his weaknesses.
With that said, my only regret is that we cannot wave a magic wand and be rid of this horrible disease. This Christmas and holiday season when you are surrounded by your family, receiving presents, and celebrating please take some time to pray for all the families that may be spending time in the hospital with their loved ones "being strong". Pray for the hospital staff that is taking their time to ensure comfort and cheer to the patients and their families in a time that may be anything but cheerful.
We have truly been blessed this holiday season and we are going forward into the new year with a positive attitude and optimism for a happy and healthy future!
Merry Christmas everyone and Thank you!!!
I am soooooo excited to say that Vinny has successfully completed all of his rounds of Chemotherapy!! Our journey is not over yet but the light at the end of the tunnel is shining bright and we see it! We have our appointments scheduled for all his scans and with prayers and blessings we are hoping to be cancer free!
Throughout this time people are always telling you "be strong". The words "be strong" become numbing. What they should say is "Put your game face on". That's what it feels like anyway, you appear to be happy and ready on the outside but inside it's all butterflies and fear. The true image of strength is Vincent and every other human battling an illness. True strength is the smile that is on his face despite being connected to an IV pole. Strength is giving a parent a hug letting them know it's going to be ok. Strength is losing your hair at 7, putting a hat on, and carrying on. Strength is understanding that what is in your body making you sick does not define who you are. It is this very strength that has gotten us through this with minimal bumps along the way. It could have been so much worse if he had defaulted to his weaknesses.
With that said, my only regret is that we cannot wave a magic wand and be rid of this horrible disease. This Christmas and holiday season when you are surrounded by your family, receiving presents, and celebrating please take some time to pray for all the families that may be spending time in the hospital with their loved ones "being strong". Pray for the hospital staff that is taking their time to ensure comfort and cheer to the patients and their families in a time that may be anything but cheerful.
We have truly been blessed this holiday season and we are going forward into the new year with a positive attitude and optimism for a happy and healthy future!
Merry Christmas everyone and Thank you!!!