Moments of Normalcy

As Ashley settled into the couch, she let out a deep sigh, feeling the exhaustion of the day wash over her. Ender, still bubbling with energy, plopped down beside her, munching on a bag of Goldfish crackers. Ashley smiled, watching him, and reached out to ruffle his hair. As Ender looked up at her, his eyes scanned her face, and then his gaze landed on the port on her chest. His brow furrowed in concern. "Mommy, what's that?" he asked, his voice laced with curiosity. Ashley hesitated, unsure of how to explain the port to Ender. She had been putting off this conversation, hoping that he wouldn't notice it, but now that he had, she knew she had to address it. The port was a small, implantable device that allowed the medical team to administer chemotherapy and other medications directly into her bloodstream. It was a necessary part of her treatment, but Ashley knew that Ender might be scared or confused by it. Ashley took a deep breath and gently explained, "Ender, remember how I've been going to the hospital for treatment? This is a special device that helps the medicine get into my body. It's like a tiny door that the doctors can use to give me the medicine I need." Ender's eyes widened as he listened, and Ashley could see the wheels turning in his head. "So, it's like a special helper?" he asked, his voice filled with understanding. Ashley smiled, relieved that Ender was grasping the concept. "Exactly, sweetie. It's a special helper that makes it easier for me to get the treatment I need." Ender nodded, seeming to accept the explanation. He looked at the port again, and then back at Ashley. "I'm glad it's helping, Mommy," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. Ashley felt a lump form in her throat as she hugged Ender tightly. "Me too, sweetie. Me too." As they sat there, Ashley realized that moments like these were precious. Despite the challenges she was facing, she was grateful for the love and support of her family, and for the opportunity to have moments of normalcy, like this one, with Ender.