A Mother's Journey

Renee C. Byer

The Sacramento Bee

Cyndie French tearfully rocks her dying son Derek, 11, as the song 'Because We Believe' plays. Cyndie sings along with Andrea Bocelli in a whispery voice. 'Once in every life/There comes a time/We walk out all alone/And into the light...' From left, family friends Ashley Berger, Amy Morgan and Kelly Whysong offer comfort as Cyndie tells Derek, 'It's OK, baby. I love you, little man. I love you, brave boy. I love you. I love you.'

Renee C. Byer, "A Mother's Journey," in POYi Archive, Item #45883, http://archive.poy.org/items/show/45883 (accessed June 7, 2025).