Roberto Westbrook (University of Florida)
New Normal Life
At the Ronald McDonald House in Gainesville, Jocelyn Silver shows off her "buddy." The catheter-like device is removed from her chest only on weekends when she goes home to Hastings.
Story: New Normal Life
My Buddy
At the Ronald McDonald House in Gainesville, Jocelyn Silver shows off her "buddy." The catheter-like device is removed from her chest only on weekends when she goes home to Hastings.
Story: New Normal Life
Injection
James Silver holds his daughter as Dr. Paulus injects anesthesia through Jocelyn's buddy.
Story: New Normal Life
Alone
During radiation, the treatment room empties and Jocelyn is restrained to ensure she does not move. The radiation is pinpointed at the markings on her head.
Story: New Normal Life
Waiting
Tammy Silver waits for Jocelyn to awaken from anesthesia. The wait can last two to three hours.
Story: New Normal Life
The Ride Back
On the bus, Ms. Silver comforts her daughter during a rare tired moment. Ms. Silver says, "The radiation makes most kids tired, but not her."
Story: New Normal Life
Goodbye
Denna Elgleston, manager of the Ronald McDonald House, grew attached to Jocelyn and the Silver family during their three-month stay. Egleston says, "I shouldn't get like this, but I'm going to miss them when they leave."
Story: New Normal Life
Scramble
At home in Hastings, Jocelyn gets a short reprieve from the hospital, but in two weeks she will begin another six-month cycle of chemotherapy.
Story: New Normal Life
Playing
Jocelyn scrambles around the house with her brother and sister.