Tuesday, August 19, 2008

It's a pain to blowdry anyway!

Today we did something we have hesitated doing. We had to tell Grace and Tanner that she would lose her hair. Somehow, it was one of the hardest things to do in this whole ordeal, because we want Grace to be seen as the Grace we know and love instead of a victim of Cancer. Grace was reflective. She told us she didn't want to lose her hair. We validated that, but told her where beauty lies and it isn't in one's looks.
Her sweet brother later cried and cried. He's concerned about her being teased. But, we had to tell him that people are more good than bad, more sensitive than ignorant, and that Grace one day will be a remarkable woman who knows empathy, compassion, and the meaning of Grace by living it.
When we run fingers through her hair now, little pieces fall to the ground. It hurts, but inside we know that she is destined for big things. This is just the preparation.

10 comments:

Erin said...

What a blessing for Grace to have such a sweet older brother who cares so deeply for her. He too will come out of this an even more compassionate, caring Tanner.

And as for Grace's hair. I can't think of any fashionista who can pull of a fabulous hat other than Gracie. She knows the true meaning of accesorizing. She will ALWAYS be beautiful inside and out.

Michelle said...

Dear sweet Tanner, if only every girl could have an older brother like that!

I love the previous posts, Gracie makes everything happier, what a trouper!

L.J. said...

Grace is no doubt living up to her name. What an incredible daughter and spirit she is. And yes, she will be beautiful without hair! Kim and JR, and I am praying for your dear family, and sweet Gracie.

Unknown said...

bald is the new black - i think i read that in this month's Vogue issue. hair comes and goes but the heart remains the same. our love for Grace runs deep.

biggest sis said...

no more fuss with a swim cap! olympic swimmers eat your hearts out!! Grandma Gigi just drove off to send bags of every variety to make the schlep with all your stuff easier.

xoxox

jedi fighters

The Safari Family said...

When we first met Grace it was her smile, followed by her contagious laughter, followed by her delightful personality, that captured our hearts. Her beauty inside and out is undeniable. Though we love every inch of Grace, her hair is such a small part of the whole Gracie. Her angelic face with that incredible smile always leaves us feeling like we could jump a mile. We love you Gracie! We love your extraordinary family! We applaud your bravery. We know you will excel at any challenge. Keep up the remarkable fight! We stand by you, dear friends.

Jill T said...

Just hearing about cute Tanner crying made me cry too! What a sweet heart! Thanks so much for keeping all of us in the loop. We love you.

Kristen said...

Tanner is a one in a million big brother. Reading how he took the news made me cry. I agree with Erin about the hats, I can see it now, everyone will be wearing them :)

The Beckstroms said...

It's amazing how we should be giving you support and strength during this time, and yet reading all of your comments has been amazing for us. Something that we have seen bring families so much joy during such a difficult time is the Make-A-Wish foundation. We would refer you guys, but only the doctor or parents can. Grace can have a WISH granted! Everytime we get to be involved in a wish, our heart aches for the child, but we've seen miracles happen! There is a chapter in Portland so when the time is right for you guys, call (503) 292-2280. We really felt like we needed to share this with your family.
Lots of love Ujifusa's!

Phoebe said...

You gotta love having a big brother! Especially when they are as nice as sympathetic as Tanner.

I can't wait to see how Grace will embrace her lack of hair and quickly find ways to accessorize with hats, scarves, etc. She will be fabulous!