Sitting on edge, does my grandma have cancer?
Sitting on edge, does my grandma have cancer?
No she does not, I could not imagine finding out that news about her.
Let us clarify the doctor said, we will do another scan.
Let us clarify the doctor said, we will do another scan.
Stage 1 lung cancer, surgery it is, we will get it out soon as we can.
Success or not? Yes and no.
Success or not? Yes and no.
Stage 1 is out, stage 3 was found, how fast it could go I did not know.
I did not understand, tears down my face.
I did not understand, tears down my face.
But she will get through this and be in a healthy place.
Seeing her as usual, for now is forbidden.
Seeing her as usual, for now is forbidden.
We stand in her driveway, yell through the glass door, make conversation.
Today she blew me a kiss, and said “I will be okay.”
Today she blew me a kiss, and said “I will be okay.”
You’ve done it before, kick cancer’s ass again, strong like bull they say.
I love you Grandma, good luck with treatment starting this week.
I love you Grandma, good luck with treatment starting this week.
Keep it going, keep the upward streak.
By: Toni Abdy
English 110 Spring 2020 10:10-11:00 
This poem meant a lot to me as I was reading it because my grandfather passed away from cancer earlier this year, and my aunt was just diagnosed with breast cancer and started chemo a little over a month ago. Watching a family member fight this battle is challenging regardless, but especially during an unprecedented time like this where we can’t physically be there to support them. Strength is such a simple, yet beautiful title filled with so much meaning. I felt the power in your words as you not only discussed the strength of your grandmother, but also the strength of you and your family to be her rock during this time, even if it’s from a distance…which I know how awful that can feel sometimes. Your poem made me feel like even those of us in the most trying situations right now, like your grandmother and my aunt, can beat this as long as we all hold on to that strength that binds us together. I wish the best for your family, and a fast recovery for your grandmother (although from what I can tell from this poem, you seem to have a family full of fighters and you’ll make it out just fine).
Emma Charles
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So sorry to hear about this. I hope your Grandma recovers, she”ll get through this. I love how you used repetition throughout your poem. It emphasized your voice and emotion heard throughout the piece. You hear the sadness in your voice but also the “strength”. Your Grandma is so strong for having to go through this again but you also are so strong to be able to get through this without sitting right next to her. I wish your Grandma and family the best and hope she comes out of treatment healthier than ever.
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Toni, I loved your poem. I relate to this poem, and while reading it, I got chills. I just lost a grandparent who had lung cancer, but she passed from the coronavirus. It is disheartening to not be able to see someone struggling with their health. Throughout the poem, you tell us your sadness, while also showing us you and your grandma’s strength. It is amazing to see you and your family are so supportive of your family members, especially at this challenging time. I hope your grandma and aunt have a quick recovery and regain their health soon. Keep your head up!
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