CFIDS Profile: Sandy Becker

Things Remembered

By Sandy E. Becker

Originally published in Youth Allied By CFIDS, Spring 1996

I miss opening pop cans and waiting in suspense to see if bubbly soda is going to spill over the top; being just a little disappointed when it doesn't; and getting a "headache," mostly in my nose, from drinking too much, too fast.

I miss frolicking at Disney World, a place where people aren't allowed to have problems; the world is clean, friendly and perfect; and entire stores are filled with beloved Disney characters that even make grown-up kids grin with delight.

I miss going to Grandpa's farm and picking the biggest strawberries right out of the berry patch; throwing the green tops back on the ground; and ending up with red teeth from eating so many.

I miss waking up in the darkness of Michigan's early hours; opening the front door and smelling the fresh morning air; arriving at school with shoes that squeak on the tile after walking across a dewy lawn and watching a beautiful sunrise during my first-hour class.

I miss running errands after school on Friday afternoon and catching a movie later that night; making definite plans for the near future; and feeling truthful when the words "I'll see you there" come out of my mouth.

But, most of all, I miss not knowing the difference between wanting to do something and being able to.