Why I Remember Daffodil Day

Last Friday (August 22nd) is Daffodil Day and I got an e-card from a friend. I didn't know the meaning of the day until a friend living in Oz told me that it is a day of hope for people with cancer. Knowing that she once was diagnosed with a pre-cancerous disease herself, I assume that that day means a lot to her, and many others.

Why am I writing about Daffodil Day? Nope, it's not because I am using the name. It's not because I am proud that I chose it as my cyber name. In fact, if it wasn't what had happened today, I wouldn't mention Daffodil Day at all.

I called an old friend who used to work at my office. An energetic young woman, her smile could brighten one's day. Very fair skin, almost like porcelain. A little bit petite, chubby cheeks that hide her slanted-but-sparkling eyes. One of her hobbies is to put on color soft-lenses. Different ones. :)

"Hello?"
"Hello, Daffodil! How are you!", she answered. Her voice was husky yet cheerful.
"Heeeey, you remember my voice!"
"Of course! I can never forget yours. A voice from a friend...."
"...." :( :( :( Suddenly I felt like I'd swallowed a big gulp of empty air. I felt happy, sad, and sentimental at the same time. I miss her. The last time we met, I almost didn't recognize her. She had bigger eyes because the chubby cheeks were gone. She looked taller because she'd lost a lot of weight. I didn't even offer my hand when she asked me to shake hers. Actually, I'd heard she's got cancer. Some schemata just doesn't work.

That was three months ago. I wonder how she'd look now.

The next dialog by the phone was pouring like water. She said she had her chemo earlier that day. The last chemo was on Friday and both chemos left her with headaches, dizziness, severe sore throat (too severe that she couldn't drink!) and feeling sick to the stomach. She mentioned that her right eye couldn't open but thankfully the CT scan didn't indicate anything wrong. The doctor said that it's just a muscle tissue problem.

Telling me all the stories about her plan to go to a famous acupuncture and physician, her way of talking doesn't change a bit. Still full of spirit and sounded cheerful. While listening to her, I searched in the net and managed to find the physician schedule, address and phone number.S he did say that she's happy I know the pyhsician's name. She sounded even happier when I mentioned that this person once made his appearance on TV talking about the benefit of shalat movements to our health.

There was nothing else I did but to keep my 'positive voice' high. I read somewhere that acupuncture works well with neuro system. That's why the elderly women have acupunture treatment to firm up their facial tissue. I told her that. I said that the physician has a good reputation. I told her that once she's better we'd hang out and chat. I asked her not to lose her faith. I reminded her that the fasting month which is full of blessings, heavenly lights and miracles no man can ever imagine is coming. I told her .... I said to her .... Bla, bla, bla....

I told her all the 'good stuff' They are only words. Words, words, words.
Saying the words, reciting my prayers, that's all I could do.

I wish I could do more.... :(