Serenity tells the story of her twenty-ninth year, a year when two very important things stretched her beyond herself. It was the year she discovered she was pregnant with her third child and also the year she was diagnosed with cancer. She writes candidly about her emotions through this entire year - the good and the bad, the faith-filled moments and the moments of sheer terror. She wears her human frailties openly and I applaud that. It gives the reader a more authentic view of the experience of facing cancer.
Perhaps I was more ready for this book, given the fact that my little brother has been recently diagnosed with his own cancer that spread to his lungs and liver. I can relate to the sheer terror, to the lingering thoughts of the possibility of death and what that would mean to a family with children. But, more probably, I can relate to it because it is a story well-told and with great poignancy. The author tells the tale in a series of thank you notes to the people who came alongside and supported her in the struggle. It is a testament to the power of human connection for strengthening one for whatever battle one must face.
I think the thing I appreciated most in the tale was the author's honest assessment of the trials others face. At one point, she mentions a friend who was struggling with depression. She acknowledges the ease with which others rally around someone facing cancer and the discomfort others feel in trying to assist someone with depression. There are trials far more sensitive and raw where support systems don't fall into place as easily. Kudos to Serenity for shining a light on those who struggle with the awkward trials and for thanking her tremendous entourage of burden-bearers. I am thankful for the chance to witness the power of community and God's grace through trial. So, as a reader, my thank you echoes in her thank you room, as well.
It is available for purchase through Amazon.
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