Childhood Cancer Survivor Poem by Richard Lackman

I saw her back, now 28 and mother of 2 boys
And yet at our first visit her mom brought along her toys
What miracle had happened that enabled her to live
And now allowed her to go forth with all she has to give

I knew how bravely she approached this horrible disease
Balancing her hopes and fears as if on a trapeze
Suffering in silence, looking older than her age
Amazing that this youngster had the wisdom of a sage

Even on the darkest days she always had a smile
An inner strength to look beyond and always know that while
Life seemed so unpleasant it would hopefully change course
Emanating fortitude from some unknown resource

But now she seemed just quite content with all things as they are
Leaving prior ugliness and pain behind her far
Proud of what she had become more than what she went through
Able to appreciate her world as few can do

I understood this was a moment I was blessed to see
A victory for her more than a victory for me
So any time I wonder what my life is all about
I recall her serenity which then removes all doubt