A Layne Post
I remember the first day that two little girls came running down the driveway of the hospital. They were accompanied by the usual boys, who were excitedly shouting, “Tio Jon!” as they ran. Somehow in the beginning Jon and I became ‘Tio Jon’, yes, me included. It seems to have changed recently, however, when I met these little girls, we were still ‘Tio Jon’.
Their names were Rudu and Esperança. I had never met them before, but it didn’t matter; they each grabbed one of my hands as if we had been buddies for years. Their giggles would melt your heart. Just two little girls… two friends who liked to run and play.
Rudu
Rudu has a large tumor on her face, making one of her cheeks look large and puffy. She is a bit shy, seemingly self-conscious of her condition; however, she eats up attention as much as the others. She gives sweet hugs and loves to be in your lap. Her eyes are beautiful and smile when her tumor keeps her lips from doing so.
Esperança
Esperança was the exact opposite of Rudu. She was loud and unhindered in everything that she did. She was all smiles, even while missing her front teeth; it was precious. She would squeal and yell, even when it was terribly inappropriate. Her energy was contagious.
For a couple of weeks the girls joined me in some of my visits with the ladies. They would sit in my lap or hang on the side of me; they just needed some physical touch. At times the sick women would be bothered by Esperança, and I couldn’t blame them, though I was unable to keep myself from smiling when I looked at her toothless grin. She was easy to love.
Esperança died this last week. Even though she had cancer, she died of pneumonia. The lack of her presence will be felt immensely. As for Rudu, she may be the next to go, as she has taken a turn for the worse. Her tumor grows more each week. Her sweet smile is gone, and even Anaya cannot bring it. It breaks my heart. She can no longer eat solid foods because the tumor is crowding her mouth. It brings memories of José Manuel.
Please pray for Esperança’s family.
Please pray for Rudu.
