A child left behind

The season’s finale of The Big C, starring Laura Linney, touched my soul. Cathy, who has Stage IV melanoma, and won’t live much longer without a miracle, has gone to the hospital for Interferon infusions. When her teenage son, Adam, discovers keys to a storage locker in her handbag (where he’s rummaging for $20), he takes them and jumps on his bike. Opening the locker, he sees a snazzy red sports car and dozens of beautiful packages. As Adam makes his way around the room looking at the cards on the gifts, the camera pans in on the messages: “Happy 25th birthday.” “Happy 26th birthday.” “Happy college graduation.” “Merry Christmas.”  All of the card are signed “Love Mom.”

Adam and Cathy

A giant photo of Cathy and Adam hangs on the front wall of the locker, overlooking the plethora of presents. Adam, a typically obnoxious teenager until now (despite his mother’s terminal illness), breaks down, and so do I.

Cathy can’t bear the thought of not seeing her son grow up. At least the gifts she’s bought before she dies will carry a piece of her to her beloved child for many years.

Although my children are 31 and 29, the thought of not seeing them grow up even more would be devastating. Hopefully, we’ll be together for many years to come, but if I knew my time was limited, I’d do just what Cathy did.

0 Responses to “A child left behind”

  1. Julianne Zausmer says:

    I am truly addicted to this show. I’ve laughed and cried and now yearn for next season. I have to say though…I’m going to miss Marlene.

    Hugs!

    REPLY
    • Geri says:

      Hi Heather,

      It just ended the first season, so maybe it will.

      Fondly,
      Geri

      REPLY
    • Geri says:

      Hi Julianne,

      I will miss Marlene, too. I am looking forward to seeing you and your man on Thursday.

      Love

      REPLY
  2. Heather Chapple says:

    Sounds pretty sad all and all…..I’m curious but rather happy that series hasn’t made it to our side yet.

    REPLY

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