I Could ... If They Would

If they would find a cure when I'm a kid...
I could ride a bike and sail on rollerblades, and
I could go on really long nature hikes.

If they would find a cure when I am a teenager...
I could earn my license and drive a car, and
I could dance every dance at my senior prom.

If they would find a cure when I'm a young adult...
I could travel around the world and teach peace, and
I could marry and have children of my own.

If they would find a cure when I'm grown old...
I could visit exotic places and appreciate culture, and
I could proudly share pictures of my grandchildren.

If they could find a cure when I'm alive...
I could live every day without pain and machines, and
I could celebrate the biggest thank you of life ever.

If they would find a cure when I'm buried into Heaven,
I could still celebrate with my brothers and sister there, and
I could still be happy knowing that I was part of the effort.

-- Mattie Stepanek (1990-2004)