Before Tuesday, I was planing on using this blog to write about the 5K that I "epically" conquered last weekend along with a sweet Student Activities Art Expo that happened on campus. However, something caught my attention last night on the late night news that I couldn't gloss over. I knew about this family before - -this sweet boy who just wanted an early Christmas. A few weeks ago, I took my high school small group to sing carols to him and his family in honor of his fight. Let me back up...
Nathan Norman, a five year old who lives with his family a few miles from campus, was diagnosed with low grade brain cancer in January of 2009 (when he was 2). By 2011, the brain tumor progressed and a tumor showed on his spinal cord. Surgery after surgery and treatment after treatment, he's been fighting while doctors work to remove the tumor. As of September 2012, the cancer in his brain and spinal cord has progressed, and he has started a new chemo treatment. Even in the midst of his sickness, his smile remains constant. The parents are Liberty alumni and are firm believers in the Lord. They are constant in their prayers and are always seeking God's glory in the situation. It was a blessing just to meet the family.
Nathan Norman (Photo courtesy of WSET.com)
When all was progressing in September, Nathan asked his parents one little request: to put up the Christmas tree and lights so he could celebrate the holiday early. Of course the parents responded and made their house a Christmas wonderland. The community heard of the story, and now, the neighbors have their decorations up as well. In recent weeks, Nathan has been receiving cards and gifts from all over the city and state.
On Tuesday, last night, Liberty University stepped in to provide a little more Christmas cheer and gave Nathan the honor of flipping the switch on Liberty's Christmas light tree which sits atop of Liberty Mountain. It's usually a tradition saved for after Thanksgiving, but I believe the school wanted to show love and care to their own in a practical way. Here's what Nathan's mother said after that night:
Last night, our family had the honor and privilege of turning on the lights for Liberty University on the Christmas tree that is on top of the mountain. This tree overlooks the entire city. It was such an amazing time. We spent time with some of the LU faculty and athletic staff and players. One of the LU faculty members gathered everyone together to just pray over Nathan and our entire family, what a sweet time before the Lord!
Nathan and his parents after lighting the Liberty Mountain Christmas tree, October 23, 2012
Photo by: Liberty University
To hear more about Nathan's story and how you can show support, watch the news story that appeared on ABC World News. Also, here is the video link of Nathan and his family from Tuesday night.
"Expect a miracle..."