Continue the Story: Edith's News

“Edith! Come downstairs, I have some news for you!”

Why is mom calling me downstairs? I’m sure I haven’t done anything, hang on, did she mention news? What kind of news, is it from school? I remember entering a couple competitions, but the results shouldn’t be coming out this early, or maybe it’s personal news? I hurry downstairs to meet my mom to receive this news. Mom? Is there anything wrong? My mother looked like she had seen a ghost. "I'm so sorry Edith, I really am", she said. I was visually puzzled, it felt like I was in another dimension. I could feel my heartbeats get faster and faster.. It can't be that.. It just can't. Mom? Please tell me everything is okay. My Mom calmly answered, your grandfather's cancer came back.

I felt the whole world drop with all its weight on my weak soul. But, but it can't be! My grandfather was already cured. I went back to my room silently, not being brave enough to face my mother's suffering or mine. I stayed in that room for what felt like hours, I looked at my phone's clock, and only 20 minutes passed. My grandfather was like a second dad to me, he took me everywhere I wanted ever since I was a kid and welcomed me with open arms every time I saw him. I felt scared, scared of going through all the emotions I once felt the first time he was diagnosed. However, I couldn't let the pain hold me back from what could have been, I don't know how long he has left to live.

I nervously held my phone, even though I was beyond sad, I knew I had to call my grandfather.

"Hello?"

As soon as I heard his comforting voice I started tearing up without control.

"Hi grandfather! I hope you're doing well", "I am good, how are you?" he asked.

He always shielded us from his suffering which I still appreciate to this day. That short call inspired me to make the best with all the time I had with him, I visited him as much as I could. Two months later, he passed away and I made it my mission to help people who suffered like my dear grandfather.

Thank you for letting me share my story! Thank you for this prestigious medical award.

Dr. Edith Smith

Department of Oncology.