I love teaching middle school because . . .

one class chuckled when I first told them I was sick. They couldn't believe that a seemingly very healthy, joking, happy-looking person could be that ill. Their honesty was refreshing. When I first heard a doctor tell me that it didn't look good, I wanted to say laugh and say, "This is a joke, right?"

after they realized I wasn't joking, they complimented me. As I was trying to explain that I am very sick even though I don't look it, I told them, "it's very strange for me too because I look pretty healthy, right?" I took a tiny pause between pretty and healthy, and they all started reassuring me. "Yes, you look pretty, Miss Parker." "Very pretty!"

when I asked for a couple students to become my helpers, over half of the kids in each class raised their hands.

they cheered when I told them I don't need chemo. I was never expecting that kind of reaction after updating them on my treatment status, but there was an undeniable sweetness to their excitement. It may have helped that I told them my updated treatment plan would be a win-win for everyone because I'd be a lot less cranky than I originally thought.

they keep me honest. I am currently trying to heal myself as much as possible through supplements and nutrition. This diet change involves no sugar, no alcohol, and no caffeine. The first couple days when I cut out my morning latte were tough. I told the kids that my head was pounding and why, and they obviously took notice. The following day, when I had my Peet's cup, they questioned me relentlessly. "Miss Parker, you're not supposed to have that. I thought you were cutting it out. It's not good for you!" I told them I was weaning myself off a little bit at a time. From a medium to a small, then on to green tea. I then told them if they caught me with a latte at any other point this year, I would give it to a student. As of today, I've officially broken up with Peet.