Jackie’s Christmas

Once again with the ugly “L” word. This time it strikes a sweet innocent 17-year-old young girl and of course it reminds me of our Savanah Children’s Leukemia is never kind, is it? It’s usually acute and aggressive and there won’t be much of a Merry Christmas at Jackie’s house. She was home the week before, but the week OF, she needs to be in for more chemo. I work with her dad, so I know all of this. And knowing this breaks my heart, just because. It hits home in so many ways.

I’ve worked with her dad for well over 20 years, so I know him pretty well. Well enough to know that when I’ve passed cards around in the past for one charity or another (a mother passed away, etc.) Harley might sign the card, but never would throw a buck in. He’s cheap that way. His friends jab him about being cheap. I can think it, but would never say it.

At first I wrestled with the idea of what I could do for his daughter. In the end, what all of us could do is be who we are. If at this stage of our lives we don’t understand the phrase “the gift is in the giving” then maybe we never truly will. So I set out to make Jackie’s Christmas just a little brighter. My goal was $250. In a small facility I knew that would be pretty difficult by throwing in a buck, so I made up a nice little note with a suggested $5 donation with any amount being appreciated. I couldn’t believe the response. And then I did something I’ve never done before. I went to the manager and asked for a company match. He was reluctant at first, and then rethought. Things are tight all over, but in the end, he agreed. Grand total with company match – $800.

Annie took the money to the bank and bought 2 Visa’s so she can shop online while she’s in the hospital. And maybe she’ll opt to share the money with her parents. It’s hers to do with as she pleases. Our job is done. Yesterday our manager decided to shut down all of the machines for a short time and gather around to give Harley this envelope with a Christmas card and the Visa’s for Jackie. (My idea was something much less public, but that’s what you get when you involve the company, and in the end, maybe it did some hearts a feel good. 🙂 There was one girl that gave very generously, and I asked her if she would present the cards to him. She agreed. I stood back in the crowd and watched. There were actually tears streaming down some of the faces, and I fought back my own. It was a good feeling, and I have to say I’m exhausted in a good way.

Christmas vacation starts today. I’m officially off until the 31st. Jarad came home last night to celebrate an early holiday, because he has to work the day after. Our family Christmas will be celebrated Saturday night. Not a problem. It’s just good to have him home. Norman Rockwell we ain’t, but now I’m not writing about what negatives might be poking about. Slighbells are ringing and Santa is on his way. My boys are healthy, and I’m not alone for Christmas this year. I have much to be thankful for.

Happy Holidays everyone!