The article reflects on the life of 9-year-old Nova May Baker, affectionately known as 'Super Nova', who lost her battle with cancer. Her mother, Bobbie, channelled their family's experiences into a TikTok account to raise awareness about childhood cancer, an area often overlooked in media. The videos, which have garnered millions of views, served to comfort others facing similar struggles. Nova's friendships, particularly with Naelon, show the innocence and strength of children dealing with illness, creating a community around their experiences during difficult times.
When we were told we had only weeks, I hoped we would have months; I hoped/prayed for a miracle; I hoped we would have a good day where she was talkative and had energy; I hoped for another day, etc. Anticipatory grief is very common with a terminal diagnosis. I heard a grief coach say, 'Don't attend the funeral early.' I understood that and practiced staying in the present every time.
Naelon and Nova met in the second grade prior to her relapse. They were inseparable at school. Naelon had proposed to Nova a few times, but Nova told him, 'I can't marry you; we are too young. Don't you want to live it up first?' She is so funny! After her relapse and having to be homeschooled because of treatments, Naelon would FaceTime her, send her video messages, and send her many, many letters and personalized drawings.
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