He knows it too. For the next year (at least), he will undergo procedures that most of y’all will never experience firsthand. And he’s going to experience those procedures as a kid.

I’ve long known that one of the things that make hard situations more bearable is having something to look forward to: at radiation, Mack receives a gift for every day of treatment. This is put together by a wonderful organization, The Smasherson Foundation—founded for the purpose of giving kids presents to look forward to when they come in for radiation treatment. 

When I was in treatment for neuroblastoma, I didn’t have the Smasherson Foundation, but I had Miss Sydney. Miss Sydney brought presents for me everyday that I was in the hospital—and although I was too young to remember Miss Sydney’s visits or what she looked like, the impact of having something to look forward to still lives on 37 years later. I still have some of the gifts she gave me. 

Another thing Mack has to look forward to? Wearing this awesome mask, drawn by one of the radiation techs that tends to Mack every day. One Piece is his favorite show and many of the gifts he has gotten so far feature this show. 

We’re reveling in anything we can look forward to: time with friends and family, trips to our favorite places, new adventurous experiences, and, yes, gifts for no other reason than having to go through hard shit. 

-Crystal (stepmom)