Recently, my Grandpa was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma which a a rare form of blood cell cancer that has no cure. Need less to say, it has been a rough few weeks in our family and my Grandpa was also hit hard with a pneumonia and suffered two heart attacks on top of everything else. As of last weekend, the doctor was not sure if he would survive the pneumonia.
After I heard the news about my Grandpa and I spoke with Eric, I went straight into my kitchen and I baked a loaf of Banana Bread to bring to the hospital. Baking comforts me in a way that I can’t really describe; no matter if things are going good or if things are going not so good, baking seems to always provide me with whatever I need at the time. Enjoyment, relaxation, satisfaction, or solace. Baking has taught me that things don’t always work out as we anticipate and sometimes we have to get through the dirty dishes and start again the next day.
I stood there with tears dripping down my face as I measured ingredients with the utmost precision. I chopped some dark chocolate.
Shortly thereafter, Eric’s head peeked around the door (he must have smelled the chocolate).
‘Need some help?’
We stood in the kitchen and talked about my Grandpa as we baked banana bread.
Eric and I went to visit my Grandpa in the hospital last weekend and it was really difficult to see him so frail, but at the same time, we were really glad to be able to visit him in such positive spirits despite everything going on. He has always been a strong and upbeat person and I was happy to see that still rang true.
On Saturday, just after Eric and I had finished eating our Black-Eyed Pea Masala, I received a call. My grandpa was doing so well that they were going to let him leave the hospital as long as his health was stabilized. His blood count was also looking so good they decided to take him off of the antibiotics. This was not only wonderful news, but it was also timely news; my mom just flew in on Friday for a visit and it was a true blessing for her to be able to have such a great visit with her dad during her stay.
So, was it the luck of the Black-eyed peas?
I guess we’ll never know, but one thing is for sure I’m going to keep some in my pantry just in case.
I’m so happy for you and your family! Watching someone that you love so much in pain is, in my opinion, the absolutely hardest thing to go through. Happy Monday!
I’m so glad your grandfather is doing well. Sending positive and happy thoughts and wishes your way. :)
So sorry to hear that. Wishing you and your family all the best in the difficult time.
Oh, I can just see you baking while crying too.. that just made my heart feel for you! I am very happy to hear your Grandfather is doing better & that you have a great family there for you too
Oh Angela, so sorry about your Grandpa. I know I can relate to how hard it is. Hang in there: your smile and positive spirit will be comforting to everyone around you, and if you’re not feeling positive you can just fake it till you make it. Keep in mind that you’ve been a huge inspiration to me and to so many other readers.
Glad to hear he is doing better. My thoughts are with you!
I am so glad your grandpa is doing so much better. It was definitely the peas.
Ange,
I’m so sorry about your grandpa. I had a similar experience — my grandmother was dying of cancer just before Thanksgiving, and I thought I was OK. I brewed a pot of tea and the smell of the Earl Grey triggered an avalanche of emotions and I just stood over the stove weeping. in the end, it was an incredible release and a (bizarre) tribute to her.
I’m glad you are sharing your honest feelings and I hope Eric gives you as big a hug as Lucas gave me.
P.S. Speaking of Lucas, he wants to kidnap Sketchie.
So sorry to hear about his sickness, but so happy to hear that he is doing better! Lots of love!
So sorry to hear of your Grandpa’s illness Angela. I hope his health continues to improve. It is hard to go through an illness like that with a loved one. I lost my Mom about 4 years ago to ALS and spent a year off work spending time & helping to care for her. She was my best friend and it is to date the hardest thing I have done. I know I was there to support my Mom and you will be there for your Grandpa and that will mean the world to him.
Hang in there.
I’m glad your grandpa is feeling better I will keep you and your family in my thoughts
Angela, I am sooo very, very sorry for this news. You, your family, and grandpa are in my prayers. I am sending light, love, and healing vibes to you all!
If the peas brought you some luck in a time like this, TAKE IT! Anything that can help at a time like this is like manna from heaven :)
With much love and empathy,
averie
xo
Give your Grandpa a giant kiss from me! I miss my grandpa . . . you are a lucky girl! I wish you and Grandpa all good things.
My thoughts are with you and your family during this tough time. You bring such light, creativity and laughter to eating healthy/vegan and your blog has truly inspired me and countless other people — if anyone deserved to have a little good luck, it’s definitely you! My thoughts are with you and your family.
My thoughts are with you and your family. I am so glad to hear your grandpa is doing well! I am also someone who finds a lot of comfort in baking when I’m upset, and I really believe in the power of gifts of foods made with love!
Angela,
So happy to hear that your Grandpa is doing better. May he continue to improve and may the luck of the peas follow you and your family all year long!
Your whole family is in my prayers during this rough time. So glad to hear that he was able to go home!
Oh, Angela, so sorry to hear about your grandpa. I am wishing the best for him & your family!
Sorry to hear that the last few weeks have been so tough, but I’m glad that things are looking up for you! I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you all.
That’s wonderful news Angela! So glad to hear he is doing well! I will keep him in my prayers regardless!