Two years ago
an acorn found
its way into the Tri-Cities
Cancer Center. Graydon Robinson
and his wife Gail brought it in with
them from the parking lot on the day
of his first appointment. At the time,
none of us were sure what made him
pick up the acorn, but we all knew that
a story was about to be born.
Graydon had just been diagnosed with
recurrent head and neck cancer. For
the two years that followed, his journey
included multiple biopsies, scans, and
very difficult treatments that included
radiation therapy, chemotherapy and
clinical drug trials. He
fought back when
many would
have given
up. He never
complained. He
always would
be the first to
ask, "How are you
today?" and he really
wanted to know.
Graydon was a strong
oak, someone who
had grown through
his own struggles.
His story gives
the rest of us
our opportunity
to grow where we are
planted. Looking back,
I believe that all of us
have a purpose and
something to offer this
world. What better symbol
than an acorn of possibilities?
Graydon recently
passed away in January
2013. At his memorial
service the story of the acorn and
Graydon's great faith was shared.
The story has inspired me to find a tangible
way to honor the patients who have fought
courageously and left a legacy. Each individual
has left their mark on us as medical
providers both professionally and
personally. A branch fell from an oak
in my yard during the severe wind
storm we had early this year. I knew it
needed to be displayed with Graydon's
acorns and have chosen it as a symbol to
honor the lives we have lost and all they
have taught us. Cancer awareness ribbons
are hung as a reminder that each life has a
purpose, a story, a legacy.
By Karen DuBois, RN, BSN
Tri-Cities Cancer Center
Nurse Navigator
The Acorn,
The Oak Tree, and
The Ribbons