Through it All

Chapter 17

Zac and Fatima are watching the fourth episode of "From Scratch." In this episode, Lino receives the problematic diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer affecting the soft muscle tissue in his knee. Throughout the episode, he undergoes intense rounds of chemotherapy, participates in an experimental trial, and ultimately undergoes surgery to remove the tumor from his knee. Miraculously, Lino appears to be cancer-free by the end of the episode, bringing Zac a sense of relief. However, Zac glances at his phone and notices Fatima in tears. He realizes how challenging it must be for her to watch, considering she can personally relate to Lino's struggle, adding an extra layer of emotion to the viewing experience.

Zac called out Fatima's name to get her attention.

Fatima, Fatima, he says.

She finally looked up towards Zac, who was calling her name, and she was drying her eyes with tissues.

Zac: Are you okay, Fatima? Maybe we should watch something else for a little while.

Fatima: No. Zac, I'm fine really, I promise you.

Zac: Are you sure?

Fatima: Positive. It's not easy, Zac. I understand Lino's frustrations. He wants to have more time with the woman he loves. While we're the ones dealing with endless doctor's appointments and constant needle pricks, we're also constantly thinking about our mortality. It's tough to balance our fears with the efforts of family and friends to support us. I don't want to leave my family behind, but ultimately, I have no control over whether I live or die. I try my best to live each day to the fullest, but I can't shake the feeling that I'm deprived of a safe, happy, and fulfilling life. There are so many dreams and goals I have, and I'm afraid I won't have the chance to fulfill them, with the specter of death hanging over me every day.

Zac was stuck. He did not know what to say to Fatima. He had dealt with sick people for quite some time, but everyone's experience differed, so he was at a loss at this exact moment. He would try anyway because he was torn up about seeing Fatima's eyes all red and puffy.

Zac:  Hey Fatima, even though we haven't known each other for a long time, I want to tell you how much I admire your strength. You're one of the strongest womanI know, both physically and mentally. I look up to your resilience, and I want you to know that you're not alone in facing whatever challenges come your way. Keep believing that you have the strength to get through this. This is just a test; the higher power is not abandoning you. It's all part of your journey; I'm here to help you figure it out. Remember, your family and friends are there for you. You don't have to go through tough times alone.

At this point, Fatima could only cry at the sweet and encouraging words Zac had just spoken to her. He was correct, but this was not the end of my story yet. Right now, this period is just one of many stepping stones. The Lord did not bring me this far to forsake me, right? The Father said Trust in the LORD with all your heart and leaned not on your understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6. I need to start listening more. I got this, she thought, with the lord's help.

Fatima: Zac, I want to thank you for your encouraging words. I needed to hear that so much right now. You're right. I'm not alone. It's just that I have a hard time depending on people, if you couldn't tell. I like to handle things independently, not needing or depending on anyone else. I've learned the hard way, and that's how you keep yourself from getting hurt.

Zac: I understand where you are coming from, Fatima, but you must have at least one person in your corner. Trust me, trusting people comes with a heavy price, but you can never go wrong if you have someone solid. So, Fatima, I want to know if you have any hidden talents I don't know about.