My morning was an early one. I was in Vancouver at BCCH early enough to be on the morning news. Since we were done so early, we decided to do some visiting, and I got to see my wonderful friend Danielle Hoult (although she slept through it, but my oh my did she ever need to rest, dumb fevers).
For those of you who don't know, in 2012 at just 11 years old my darling Dani was diagnosed with ALL (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia). After almost 2 years of treatment Dani was in her final months before finishing, but leukemic cells were found in her cerebral spinal fluid. In 2014 she relapsed (yes, relapsed while still in treatment) and has been placed on a very intense chemo treatment. She will be on chemo until 2016, and will also be receiving cranial radiation in July!
My sweet, darling friend Danielle is full of attitude, love, strength, and resilience. She has a huge heart, and an old soul, and is full of passion.
As she was resting today we visited with her incredible mom Nadine, and she told us about how Dani was fighting through pain to get through her play rehearsal. All year she has worked hard, and she just couldn't stay away from the stage. Her peers were so thoughtful and accommodating though, she got to sit by the director and perform her lines from there the rest of rehearsal! She is missing opening night, but I did see a message of love and well wishes from her cast members. She will be there in spirit tonight. I have absolutely no doubt she will be sprung from the hospital ASAP and prance, perform, and perfectly deliver her role on that stage.
Dani is a source of determination, inspiration, and dedication. I can't help but smile every time I see her, even when she's hooked up to IV poles. Even when she's asleep. This beautiful young girl can conquer the world, and I know for a fact that she will.
I am honored, proud, and humbled to call this incredible young gal my friend. Keep smiling. I love you Dani Banani.
