It’s true; we think of ourselves as family here at LME—one big learning and growing family everyday.  When one of our own needs help, we answer the call in support.  A fourth grade Miller family member, Ethan, is battling cancer right now.  He was very recently diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer called Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS); his prognosis is excellent, yet he has months of treatment ahead of him now.  When Ethan came by to visit with Mrs. Bass and me last week (with his mom), I was completely awe-struck by his bravery, courage, and positive attitude in spite of the situation.  I know many adults who would not handle this situation quite so stoically.  In fact, a former teacher of Ethan’s had this to say:  “Ethan has been one student who touched my heart from the minute he walked in my classroom…he’s the kind of kid who makes me want to be a better person because he’s such a great person himself!”  🙂

Ethan’s homeroom class of 4th graders are on a mission now to find creative ways to show their support and encouragement in the long months of treatment ahead.  They have several clever ideas (no money involved, of course) and special plans to invite the entire school to participate as much as possible.  Be watching for fun school spirit events in honor of our Ethan.

In the meantime, there are ways outside of school you and your child can pull for our family member, Ethan.  You are welcome to follow his progress during this medical journey on Ethan’s site and post him a note of encouragement.  Ethan is an important member of the Midlothian Youth Football League—this family of athletes is surrounding Ethan and his family in special ways too.

In personal times of crisis, one of the most important lessons we can teach our young learners is how to care for others through our words and our actions.  I challenge each of us to lift one another up; share a kind word; be an “upstander” (not a bystander).  As my Granny B would remind me:  “Always be a lamp, a lighthouse, or a lifeboat to your friends because friends are the family you get to choose.”  🙂