She Rang the Bell

What began as an arduous, insurmountable, journey eighteen weeks ago came to an end today. The sweet sound of the bell was a major milestone, signaling the end of six cycles of chemotherapy for Ranjana. The tears flowed freely and the rush of emotion for all of us in the hallway was overwhelming. The bell was symbolic of the closing of a chapter and the start of a new normal. Ranjana, my beautiful sister, has fought this cancer monster with grit and resolve. In some strange way, it’s been “our” fight. Sometimes, the pain and suffering of those close to us teaches us more about hope and love and the importance of family, than all the good times put together. The sweet sound of this bell will ring in my heart and in my ears for a very long time. Every time that bell rings, cancer is dying. That’s a beautiful feeling, and a major victory.