A Tristan and Olivia Security Blanket

In February of 2019, my good friends Mr. and Mrs. Kue were celebrating the announcement of their second pregnancy, when they were suddenly faced with a very serious diagnosis of advanced stomach cancer. At the restaurant where we all work together, we were absolutely stunned.

Only a year before we had been celebrating the Kue's first child, a surprise pregnancy that had been wished and hoped for over the last 20+ years of marriage. Who would have thought that after years of trying to overcome infertility, at a time when it was not much of a thought any longer, this little boy would appear? We rejoiced with the news, and that baby boy, Tristan, was born in November of 2017 after a healthy pregnancy. 

And, we couldn't have been more excited about the Kues getting pregnant again! As surprised as we were by Tristan, I'm not sure surprise was a big enough word for the new announcement. Ecstatic--we already were in love with Tristan and couldn't wait to double the happiness. Baby was due in June, and it was incredible to think that after so many years, there would be not just one baby, but two. 

Looking back now, I am amazed by the strength with which the Kues have faced the crazy situation that was dropped on their doorstep. They began chemotherapy and the difficult treatment for both stomach and liver cancer, juggling appointments between the Obstetrician and the Oncologist. Then, during the summer, Grandma Kue, Mr. Chue's mother, passed away. It was very difficult to mourn. With all the reasons to fight for every minute of strength, they continued to move forward. In June of 2019, as scheduled, baby girl Olivia was born, fat and beautiful.

As they enter the final stages of treatment, their future continues to take new shape. Those who have been through cancer treatments with a loved one know how life turns on a dime, and how perspective is cut down to the deepest of meanings. It's an exhausting balance that, as the Kue's self-assigned support group, we recognize can be alleviated a little simply by bringing more financial security into their plans.

Mr and Mrs. Kue often try to tell us how much it means to have family and friends to support and love them through this part of their life. So many people that have surrounded this beautiful couple through the years have not hesitated to step in and give from their heart with time, love, money, cheer and prayers. We are moved to do this because of the love we feel for this little family, that never hesitates to think of others and include others in their abundance. The seconds, minutes, hours, and days that they have given to our dreams have also been a chance to know and be a part of their hopes and dreams. 

So, although you may not know the Kues personally--Chue, Choua, Tristan, and Olivia--we wanted to share their story with you. We wanted to open up the opportunity for anyone to share in their story and give if they felt moved. We believe that this fundraiser will be a special gift for Tristan and Olivia, under their mother's discretion, to stand as a piece of financial security during a time when it is needed both materially and spiritually. If you have read this, thank you, please know that we appreciate your concern. If you are able to give, thank you very, very much.