Before Olivia was diagnosed with cancer, we were noticing that she was becoming fatigued and bruised for a few weeks.
In the beginning, there were a ton of obstacles that Olivia had to overcome. Lots of needles in her chest, swallowing gross medicine, learning how to swallow pills, dealing with nausea, walking impediments, x-rays, labs, tests, lots of tubes & wires connected to her constantly, painful constipation, endless IV pole beeps, being woken up by your nurse all hours of the night, vomiting, pain, low energy, high energy, fevers, iv poles, sedation, medical terminology, hair loss, and being inspected by EVERYONE.
She had spent over 70 nights at the hospital the first year and although she enjoyed the adventures at the hospital and special mommy time, she truly missed being home with her daddy and little brother.
Despite all of these obstacles, she overcame. She was protected and has come through without any obvious negative side effects – the only side effect has been we all now have a deep purpose. Our family values and priorities have been changed for the better, seeing God’s hand at work throughout and prior to her diagnosis has given us true meaning, appreciation, and purpose for living.
We have been served by so many generous people and foundations and are truly only able to have gone through this joyfully by having the loving support of our community. We are thankful to have had this opportunity to blossom as a family, and not become embittered.
Hope session by Karyn Olsson Photography | Instagram