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.
sorry to hear about your grandpa. i’m glad things are improving!
sending him lots of positive vibes and prayers!
Maybe it was the Banana Bread you brought your Grandpa! So glad he’s feeling better!
I’m glad to hear your grandfather is doing better. I’ll keep you and your family in my thoughts.
When my aunt passed away from ovarian cancer, I spent the entire week in the kitchen, cooking and baking. It gave me a sense of control, a way to distract myself. I cried a lot and am still tearing up, but all the food I made was out of love for my aunt, and given to my family. It’s a way of starting to heal too, I guess. Cook and bake with happiness and love from the memories and spread the love to the family.
oh angela, i am SO glad he’s doing better! this brought tears to my eyes after losing my Papa this past october. he meant so much to me, as i’m sure your grandfather means to you, and it hurts every day that he’s gone. i’m so glad you have the chance to spend more time with him!
I totally agree, there is something very serene about baking and cooking in general. So glad to hear your grandpa is doing better! :)
My thoughts and prayers are with you, your family, and Grandpa. Hopefully his health continues to improve.
I just want to take a moment on comment on your sincerity and wonderfully positive outlook on life. You’re such an inspiration.
Much love <3 Keep smiling!
I am so glad that your Grandpa made such a great recovery! I’ll keep him in my thoughts :)
angela, so sorry to hear about your grandfather’s diagnosis, but so glad to hear he has improved and that you could visit.
take care, and sending you and your family very best wishes.
Sending my warmest wishes your way for your grandfather – such a beautiful, well-written post Angela.
Angela,
My grandmother has been fighting multiple myeloma for the past few years, and I am very sorry to hear about your grandfathers diagnosis. Focusing on my own health has been a great personal support for me. She was on my mind the entire time I ran my last half-marathon, and will be for the next.
We’re sending you and your family our warmest thoughts. I’m glad your mom had a chance to see your Grandpa, and that he’s able to relax at home. I went through a similar experience and found it difficult to see my Grandma sitting in the hospital. It’s much nicer to see them at home, around the people and things that they love.
I hope all goes well in the coming weeks and wish you and your family the best of health!
And… keep feeding the man those peas!
Angela,
I read you every day, without fail, and over the last 6 months you have become a vital part of my life. Just like everyone else, I’ve grown to love and care for you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family at this time.
Baking provides me with the same things you find: solace, warmth, comfort, love, and many life lessons. My next kitchen endeavour is for you, and you alone.
Thinking of you and your family, and sending very best wishes.
Oh gosh, so so sorry to hear about your Grandpa, but I’m glad he’s doing better. It was the peas and the baking, for sure :)
Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt post. Watching loved ones fall ill is (I think) just about the hardest part of life. Warm wishes to you and your family :)
I’m glad your granpa is ok and doing well.
oh sweetie – my thoughts and with you and your family xx
I’m so sorry to hear about your Grandpa, Angela.
All my love and well wishes to you and your family.
Thinking of you and your family
<3
I hope your grandpa only continues to get better! That was such a beautiful and heartfelt post. Thanks for sharing such a personal story :)