We don’t always know what burdens others carry.

Unless, that is, we’re invited in.

I’d say, for me, that invitation came when I had an unexpected encounter with neighbors back in August, as the sun was setting over White Oak.

That was the evening I learned another neighbor was ill, and not merely battling a cold. 19-year-old Morgan Sherrill, 2023 Tuscola graduate and former Tractor Supply employee, was, as her mother, Samantha Sherrill, shared–

“In a fight for her life.”

“It started with a rash and a tightness in my chest,” Morgan explained. “The doctors had a difficult time diagnosing me, thinking it was mono. But I’ve had mono before, and this was different.”

Morgan’s dad, Trey Sherrill, and her mom knew. Whatever was going on was serious. After multiple trips to the ER, Samantha demanded answers. “I told them, ‘We need to know what this is, and we need to know now.’ We were sure it was something bad.”

Still, a cancer diagnosis wasn’t what they expected. Because of Morgan’s rare and aggressive “T-Cell” lymphoma, she was referred to an oncology specialist, Dr. Saeeda Chowdhury, at Greenville Memorial Hospital. Since July, she’s traveled to South Carolina every three weeks, enduring two surgeries and six rounds of chemotherapy.

“I didn’t want this as part of my story. I felt so sick and tired,” Morgan shared. “The hardest part was not being able to spend time with my best friend. That and losing my hair.” Her face lit up…

“But that’s about to change.”

When we’d scheduled our visit, her good news hadn’t yet been delivered. I’d simply wanted to bring my granddaughter over, hoping to brighten Morgan’s day—to find out how she was doing.

How wonderful, then, to not only chat but to celebrate her news. Because, after her sixth chemo treatment, Morgan is cancer-free.

So, with a smile, I inquired–

“What valuable truths have you learned from the last four months?”

Morgan didn’t hesitate.

“First, I’ve learned not to take life for granted.”

She continued, “I never thought cancer would happen to me and it’s been hard. Little things—like getting together with friends—ended. I couldn’t be with many people due to my compromised immune system.” Morgan grinned before adding, “Yep, we should appreciate every moment.”

I looked at my granddaughter who’d spent her first forty-two days in Mission’s NICU, having arrived almost two months prematurely on May 15th.

On the day of our visit with Morgan, we were celebrating too, because Maci was six months. “That’s a good lesson—something we try to do as well.”

Morgan nodded. “It’s not always easy. When I learned I had cancer, I was angry and asked God, ‘Why me?’ This wasn’t how I wanted to spend my summer, didn’t want to put off college. I mean, I’m a teenager. What 19-year-old would want this? But over time, I realized—

“God was with me through it all…”

“He never left me and could use this as part of His plan.” Morgan smiled. “Isaiah 41:10 has been an anchor. It says—

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

“That’s a powerful verse, packed full of promise.” I patted Morgan’s knee. “Anything else?”

She considered for a moment, then met my gaze.

“I learned through this experience that people are generous…”

“Many I didn’t even know—complete strangers—offered support and encouragement.”

Her words brought tears. Indeed, the kindness of strangers—something many have experienced the last several weeks, post Hurricane Helene.

Prior to our leaving, I asked Morgan what was next, learning she hopes to attend either Haywood Community or Southwestern. “I want to study sonography.”

The irony struck.

This young woman who’d faced the possibility of death wanted to help others welcome life. I wasn’t surprised.

And you know, I’m thankful for that unexpected encounter several months ago, when I was invited to walk with friends in their pain. It’s a privilege to carry one another’s burdens.

Yes, to step into others’ stories.

***

And speaking of stories….

Our Sweet Maci Lynn started her life with one, and I can’t wait to help her learn her part in God’s great plan.

Thank you, Morgan, for being an inspiration–to me and many!

Here’s a poem I hope will bring some smiles:

 

            Maci’s 6th Month Poem

       

 

What is so wow about a stuffed cow, or perhaps a pig or a bear? 

And what is so silly about that stuffed kitty or the horse and husky right there? 

 

And why have they gathered with an oink, mew and roar…

A woof, a moo and a neigh?

What is their reason for getting together? 

Why on this special day?

 

If you lean in and listen—

Yes, listen real close 

They’ll tell you, of that I know.

With smiles and giggles (and maybe a purr) 

You’ll learn who’s the star of the show. 

 

“Maci Lynn, you’re the one— yes, this is your day,”

The six friends in unison shout. 

“Hip-hip-hooray, you’re 6 months today…

And that’s what this party’s about!”

 

Book Give-Away

In honor of my Maci’s Lynn 6-month milestone and her furry friends, I’m giving away a copy of Michelle Rayburn’s latest collaborative–Whiskers, Wags, and Woofs–Poems and Heartfelt Essays For Dog and Cat Lovers.

All you have to do is comment, and your name will be in the running. I’ll draw next Wednesday, November 27th, then ship anywhere in the U.S.