Lacey, a guest at Village of Hope (VOH), has been battling leukemia for the past year. This fall, she begins bone marrow transplant treatment at OHSU.
Here is what Lacey had to say about her journey:
I received the diagnosis for my leukemia three weeks prior to moving here. I didn’t
know what that journey would mean for us. I just knew I would be really sick and it would be hard.
When I first got here, I was quiet and depressed, but the staff and people helped me and supported me in my journey. When I was admitted to the hospital, everybody stepped up. This place got me out of my depression. So I wanted to get everybody together for a potluck so I could tell them how much I appreciate them and this place.
Kenny doesn’t socialize much, but he wanted to show his appreciation too. When I
went to the hospital, he saw how many people stepped up and cared for us. My depression isn’t a problem anymore. I’m coming out of my pod and opening up.
To surround Lacey with a village of support, VOH hosted its first-ever community potluck. Hot and cold dishes were gathered, picnic tables were moved into the parking lot, and a diverse group of neighbors, family and friends joined to offer their love and support to Lacey and her boyfriend Kenny.
After feasting concluded, Lacey shared the story of her cancer journey, her trust in God, and her hopes for the future. Lacey highlighted the immense care and support she receives from Kenny, then got down on bended knee and asked for his hand in marriage.
I wanted to propose to Kenny in front of all the people here and have them be part of the next step in our journey, which is here.
Lacey’s potluck concluded with a prayer circle during which her community offered prayers and words of encouragement.
