A Heart That Works

by Rob Delaney

I remember asking Henry’s lead oncologist if it was okay for us to take him to a local park somewhat early in his chemo treatment. He said something along the lines of, “You better take him to a park!” To which we said, “But isn’t his immune system quite weak?” “Indeed it is, but he’ll enjoy the park and that’s very important.”

Reflecting on his physical therapy reminds me that I’m not a fan of the “fighting” metaphor for cancer. I don’t think you fight it, or beat it. The effort I saw Henry expend, again and again, at the age of one, under such duress, suggests someone who could beat anything that can be beaten. Cancer’s pretty much going to do what it wants. Should it come for me, I hope I’ll just ride the wave.