A Rose for Melinda by Lurlene McDaniel Read Free Book Online

achieved remission, so it looks as if she'll be able to come home before her birthday. This is a banner day. Elana and I can't wait to get our little girl out of this place, and Melinda can't wait to leave.
    We've got a schedule set up for continued chemo over the next six months, but maybe the worst is over and future tests will show that Melinda's cancer-free. I believe she's weathered the storm and permanent remission will be achieved. She's suffered enough and now it's time to pick up our lives, which have been on hold ever since this nightmare began.
    Thanks again for your prayers. Keep it up!
Lenny & Elana

    MELINDA'S DIARY
    August 25
    I can't believe I'm sitting in my own bedroom writing this. Everything looks just the way I left it before I took off to Washington, but it's kind of unreal too. I'm so used to the hospital, the nurses' comings and goings, the other kids, the smells of the halls, the rattle of the food carts, the doctors dropping by twice a day. The gang on my floor threw me a little party before we left—very sweet. There were balloons and cupcakes and there was a clown to entertain the little kids. I was the only teen up there and the younger kids looked up to me. Keisha, who's six, even cried, but I promised to visit when I return for my treatments. (Maybe she'll be out by then, I hope, I hope.)
    Zorita was sitting on my bed when I got here. Bailey had tied a bow with a bell around her collar and she looked really cute. I think she's forgiven me for leaving her for so long, because she curled up on my pillow like she used to do.
    When I think over the last two months, they seem like a bad dream. But they weren't. I know they really happened, because there's a shunt in my chest for the upcoming chemo treatments. It's ugly, but I can hide it under my clothes. I'm tired now and I'm going to bed with my cat.
    Elana's Journal
    August 25
    This will be quick. Part of me is elated to have my baby back in her room down the hall. The other part is scared witless. At the hospital, nurses were close at hand, so if Melinda had any problems I could run and get them. Here, it's only me and Lenny. Maybe only me because Lenny travels so much.
    Lenny programmed all the important phone numbers into our telephones and I have lists of emergency measures to take if something I can't handle happens, but still it's frightening to be the sole one in charge. I think Melinda senses my fear and ineptitude.
    I pray that everything goes well. Melinda's been through so much … TOO much for a girl who'll be fourteen in a few days. She's changed since June, and seems older, more stoic. I miss my little girl.

    TO: Ann
Subject: Melinda's Birthday

    When I asked Melinda what she wanted for her birthday, she said, “I'd like to be cancer-free, go to Paris with a dance troupe, have boobs bigger than apricots, and see Jesse Rose.” At this time, the first three things on her list are out of reach. But seeing Jesse isn't. If you're willing to let him come, we'd love to fly him to Atlanta for a visit. As Lenny says, “A lot of things in Melinda's life are out of my control, but a nonstop flight across the country for one of her friends isn't one of them!”
    I know school might have started (it has here and Melinda cried because she couldn't go), but if you'll let Jesse come for even a few days, Lenny and I will be ever so grateful. Please think about it and call us. If the answer's yes, we'll arrange everything.
    Elana (with fingers crossed)

    TO: Elana and Lenny
Subject: Melinda's Birthday

    How could I say no to such a heartfelt request? Besides, if I did, my son would never speak to me again! Plus, he might stow away on a plane and go anyway!
    Yes, school has started, but so what? Jesse's had a terrible summer. He talked about Melinda constantly and so wanted to see her. He had little to do after returning from New York and I felt really sorry for him moping around while I worked. Don't tell Melinda, but he sold his skateboard and