MAKENNA

My wife and I recently experienced one of the more memorable days of our lives. It was a birthday party like many we have attended but the presence of a young girl named Makenna made it like none other. Facing a daunting future, friends and family had come to celebrate her 13th birthday with her as well as to acknowledge her courageous battle with leukemia. We had heard her story and could not wait to meet her.

We had gathered on a beautiful, sandy beach at the foot of a bluff that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Those that had arrived early raked away sea weed from big waves and a high tide the night before so tables and chairs, a barbecue and a dance floor could be set up. Guests busied themselves with filling water balloons, decorating tables and arranging party favors. A limousine had been sent for Makenna and her friends with an early afternoon arrival expected. Soon there was a buzz that she had arrived.

We could see a group of young teens walking down the hill and across the beach toward us. As we had not met her before we were in the dark as to which one she was. After patiently greeting friends and family, some who had come a great distance to be a part of this day, we were introduced to her by her Dad, who we had met earlier. Some people can speak volumes without saying a word. Makenna is one of those. She extended her hand in greeting, looked at us with kind eyes and a warm smile and then gave us a hug.

There were the signs of a brutal, behind-the-scenes struggle with treatment. Her face was pale, framed by a cute, black wig, and she was thin. But her inner strength and beauty overshadowed everything. There was that unmistakable feeling that we were in the presence of someone special.

The afternoon was spent playing volleyball, lounging in beach chairs and swimming. We became friends with many we had just met. We learned there were two young boys present, who were also fighting the fight with leukemia. We met Makenna’s brother Alec, who had been found to be a match for a bone marrow transplant. A humorous young man who, when I asked if there are any side affects said “I will probably grow a third arm”. He has such a positive attitude that I am sure he is a great source of strength for her. Preparations are being made for that procedure to be performed soon.

Everyone enjoyed a barbecue of hot dogs, hamburgers and brisket of beef with baked beans, potato salad, and watermelon while an all girls band with a set of appropriately pink drums entertained. All the girls knew every word to every song and mimicked every move in unison as they danced in the sand. People came out on to their terrace’s of the homes on the bluff above to listen to the music as the sun set.

After birthday cake a country singer named MCCuin was introduced. He told the story of how he had come to know of Makenna, met her and her family and dedicated himself to helping her in any way he could. He then sang a song he had written for her and recorded as a CD. As he sang, Makenna and several of her friends sat on the sand in front of the stage, hugging each other. Just behind her were her Mom and Dad, each leaning on a shoulder for comfort. The rest of us were mesmerized. As everyone began to leave, we said goodbye to Makenna. She was just as warm and sincere as she was upon meeting her that morning. As we walked up the bluff on a crystal clear night, a perfectly round, full moon rose from behind the hills. Full moons bring good luck.