In the journey of life, we often find ourselves chasing grand achievements, monumental milestones, and glorious celebrations. But for the Roberts family—and especially for 14-year-old Will Roberts, who is bravely battling aggressive bone cancer—the definition of “fulfillment” has been completely rewritten amidst the fire of affliction. Their story from this past Sunday is not just a glimpse into pain; it is an epic of faith, where the phrase “it was enough” became a true miracle.
1. When Plans Are Broken by Pain
This past Sunday was meant to be one of the most radiant chapters in the lives of Will and his sister, Charlie. It was the day they were both scheduled to enter the baptismal waters together—a public declaration of their faith and spiritual rebirth. The family had prepared, friends were waiting, and congratulatory cards were ready.
However, cancer knows no holidays and respects no sacred dates. Just as the celebration was about to begin, sharp, cruel pains began to siege Will’s frail body. Instead of donning a white baptismal robe, Will found himself on an emergency stretcher. His father, Jason, had to brush away tears of disappointment to rush his son toward Children’s of Alabama.
A family that has always been inseparable was suddenly split in two: one half in the sanctuary witnessing Charlie’s baptism, and the other half in the ER, fighting for stability. It is a heart-wrenching reality that no parent should ever have to endure.
2. The Loneliness of the Warrior and the Comfort of Faith
While Charlie received her baptism amidst blessings and cheers, Will was facing needles, monitors, and agonizing pain in the hospital. Though Charlie completed the ceremony, her heart was undoubtedly with her brother.
As a cancer survivor myself from 39 years ago, I understand that feeling all too well. I remember the unconditional support from my wife, Jill. But I must confess: I have never stood in Jason and Brittney’s shoes. Being a cancer patient is hard, but being the parent of a child with cancer is a trial on an entirely different level. It is an exhaustion that seeps beyond the physical and erodes the very soul.
How do they manage to smile for their daughter while their hearts are burning with anxiety for their son? There is only one answer: The superhuman strength of Love and Faith.
3. “I Can Feel Thankful and Worn Down at the Same Time”
Late that night, after returning from the hospital, Will’s mother, Brittney, wrote words that moved thousands to tears. She didn’t try to play a tireless superhero. She was brutally honest about her pain:
“I can feel thankful and worn down at the same time, and that’s just where I am tonight. Some days don’t come with just one feeling. They come with a mix… hope, exhaustion, peace, and ache all wrapped together.”
This confession is beautiful because it is human. It reminds us that faith doesn’t mean the absence of pain, and strength doesn’t mean the absence of weariness. Brittney and Jason are teaching us how to embrace the chaos of emotion while continuing to put one foot in front of the other.
4. The Miracle of 20 Minutes in the Family Car
The most touching part of the story happened at the end of the day. Will was home, but the pain was still lingering. He looked at his mom and asked a simple, humble question: “Mama, can I take Rebel (the family dog) and ride with you and listen to music?”
And so, a short but sacred journey began. It wasn’t a luxury vacation; it was just a drive around the block. The whole family, including the dogs, sat together. They didn’t talk about scans or the next round of chemotherapy. They listened to worship songs, honoring God in the small, cramped space of the SUV.
In those 20 minutes, cancer seemed to retreat. There was only love, music, and connection. As the car pulled back into the driveway and the pain began to lean back into Will’s body, his mother wrote: “Tonight, that was enough.”
5. The Meaning of “Enough”
“Enough” isn’t when everything is perfect. “Enough” is when, in the middle of a thousand heartaches, you still find 20 minutes of peace with those you love. “Enough” is when a baptism is postponed, but a soul is already washed in the love and presence of God during its darkest hour.
The Roberts family isn’t looking for logical answers as to why they must suffer. They are looking for the presence of one another and the Almighty. Will will be baptized on another day, when he is stronger. But to me, and to the thousands watching, Will was “healed” in spirit during those 20 minutes in that car.
6. A Call from the Heart
Will Roberts’ story is a reminder to all of us who sometimes complain about the trivial inconveniences of daily life. Look at Will—a 14-year-old warrior who found happiness in a short car ride and a song.
Today, let us become part of the Roberts’ family. Let us be the “arms” that lift them when they are weary and the “voice” when they need to know they are heard.
Connect and Share:
If Will’s story has touched your heart, please do not keep it to yourself. Spread this light to those who are also fighting through the darkness.
👇 IT ONLY TAKES 5 SECONDS TO TYPE “AMEN” OR “🙏” — LET’S SHOW BRITTNEY AND JASON THAT THEY ARE NOT WALKING THIS ROAD ALONE!
You can support Will’s journey via his GoFundMe page here: [Link]
#WillStrong #FaithOverFear #LoveHeals #CancerWarrior #EnoughIsEnough #PowerOfPrayer
