Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer And Recovery
Make-A-Wish Hope Tour brought Mom and I to Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford on Tuesday. Each hospital visit is unique and wonderful in its own way, and my visit here is one I will always remember. Their social worker, Analisa, met Mom and I in the lobby and escorted us to a lovely and touching surprise. As we rounded the corner to the auditorium where I would be presenting to staff members, we were greeted with brilliantly colored balloons and a beautiful array of refreshments for the event. As we neared the tables, it became more apparent that the staff had outdone themselves in their preparations for my arrival. There was a cake that was shaped like a book, and it had a quote from my book written on it! There were dozens of cupcakes that had ballerinas and pointe shoes on top! What a beautiful welcome!
Grace Cake at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital
Ballerina and Pointe Shoe Cupcakes at Lucile Packard
In the auditorium, I had the opportunity to share my story with pictures and video for the staff. After I was finished, there were great questions. It was obvious they wanted to understand as much as they could so that they could better serve their patients. Afterwards, we enjoyed the cake and cupcakes while I signed books for those who attended. When we finished, their Child Life Specialist, Jacob, gave Mom and I a tour.
Speaking at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital
We ended the day with a mile hike through the redwoods in Half Moon Bay. What a wonderful day! Thank you to everyone at Lucile Packard, and a special thank you to Linda from Make-A-Wish Greater Bay Area.
As each day passes on the Hope Tour, I feel more and more blessed.
Gratitude for Life!
Melinda Marchiano 
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