Ode to Maddie

Maddie died on Monday. She was a fiery two-year-old girl suffering from Burkitt's Lymphoma. I got to meet Maddie through my minor-job in Palliative Care. Though not terminal, kids suffering from Burkitt's fall into this department. She had responded extremely positively to chemotherapy, which was born as a result of the passionate, extraordinary efforts of Suzanne Zickell, Palliative Care Nurse.

However, due to the chemo, Maddie's immunity was extremely low, and, despite regular tests, she suddenly contracted Bacterial Meningitis. Though everything was tried to save her, her system was too weak and she passed away.

Maddie had the strongest personality I have ever seen in a child. She clearly knew what she wanted and made it well-known when she didn't get it. We often joked about how strong her temprement would be as a teenager. Unfortunately, no one will ever know. Perhaps the world would have been unable to withstand such a fierce and sassy soul? She rests now with her Heavenly Father. Pray for her family, please.

There's a great unknown
Inside my heart
I see a purple cloud
And a hand that falls

Help us to understand
Help us to know Your plans
Let our eyes see through
What seems like an end

She had a needless cry
That brought a smiling joy
I saw a healing cure
That caused our hands to lift

But who are we to think?
And what are we to know?
Let our words be for
Whatever You see fit