Marianne...

Blue for Colon Cancer

Marianne Stoddard was and is one of our favorite nurses during Atticus battle. I remember as if it were yesterday, Atticus was being discharged for the very first time and I was absolutely terrified with all of the do's and dont's. We were walking out of room #5 when around the corner comes Marianne. I cried in her arms but new that we would be OK. She new us and loved us and would absolutely make sure that Atticus was given the best care possible. When she said, "I'll see you Monday morning" I felt I tiny bit safer. She carried us through our journey holding our hands every step of the way. 

We first met Marianne when we lived in Richardson, TX. We were in the same ward (church). I didn't know her well, but always thought she was nice, new she played the piano and worked as a nurse, which is why she missed some Sunday's. I didn't know what kind of nurse she was until the day previously mentioned.

It takes a special kind of person to do what she does. A person who is willing to be strong when patients and friends near and dear to you get news of their world crumbly and coming to a complete halt. It takes a special kind of person to stay strong when, I come running out of the chemo room yelling for her because Atticus is projectile vomiting. It takes a special kind of person to sacrifice so many emotions to provide so much strength and happiness  and security for others.

Marianne IS that special person.

It seems cruel and unjust that after years of serving little ones and their families battling cancer that she herself would get diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon cancer. To say it's devastating, doesn't even scratch the surface. It's one of those, "why's" that we won't ever know here on this earth, and after I have held and hugged and kissed my Atticus for an eternity, I will ask Heavenly Father.

But until then, please keep Marianne and her family in your prayers. Please, express your love to your family and friends. Be patient with others. Be forgiving and kind. Lives are getting turned upside down every second of every day.

We love you Marianne! Team Angels for Atticus is cheering you on.