“But the love of sisters needs no words. It does not depend on memories, or mementos, or proof. It runs as deep as a heartbeat. It is as ever present as a pulse.” ~ Lisa Wingate
The “People of Prominence” series was originally formulated to spotlight a variety of local unsung heroes from all walks of life. To date, these people have been adults from a variety of industries and pursuits. The idea was to interview these people of prominence and, in turn, have them nominate someone they felt should be spotlighted for their courage, their selflessness or their accomplishments in the face of adversity.
I have decided to interject and provide my own nomination for the “People of Prominence” series this month. Carson Parry Tucker (CP below) and Pearl Monroe Tucker (PM below) represent the spirit of this series like none other. They are sisters and warrior princesses of prominence who have risen and fallen together whilst ultimately standing victorious with lovely smiles.
“Of two sisters, one is always the watcher, one the dancer.” ~ Louise Gluck
Carson Parry is the big sister to Pearl Monroe (“Roe Roe”). Carson Parry is the quieter sister who has played the selfless role of defender of Roe Roe who was diagnosed in the fall of 2019 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
Carson Parry is the one who observes, who clearly wears a maternal badge with sophistication unlike any other 5th grader. She is a fierce advocate and protector of her little sister. There are certain children you can look at and readily see the adult they will become. That older version of themselves will be well loved, respected and admired for their endless bounty of intelligence, courtesy and thoughtfulness.
Pearl Monroe (as she prefers these days instead of the nickname “Roe Roe”) rang the bell at Brenner Children’s Hospital two years ago on her 6th birthday to celebrate the end of her cancer treatments. Pearl Monroe is a golden firecracker shooting sparks of personality and vigor with a musicality that echoes in her every movement and smile. She is someone cancer should never have picked on in the first place. She is laden with a charm and strength that would level any foe. The sisterly bond fortified each girl’s steadfast survival instinct, and they continue to hold tightly and warmly to each other.
Tell us about yourselves. What is important to you?
CP: Having all my friends is very important to me. I like tennis. I like to sing any style of music. I am having fun with cheerleading, and I love to read.
PM: I think having good friends is important, too. I enjoy all my classes, especially math; I like doing multiplication. Playtime at recess is fun. Just being outside on a trampoline and playing all day is great. I like performing on stage with singing or dancing.
Tell us what anyone needs to have to maintain happiness and joy.
CP: It is important to have love for everybody. I think being kind is really something that is important.
PM: Everyone should be helpful to each other. I just believe that being nice is what everyone needs.
What is your definition of a hero? Tell us about what qualities heroes you know have.
CP: Anyone who has gone through something hard and come through. I would say someone like my sister who is sassy.
PM: Friends who are fighting cancer are heroes. I love the experiences we have had building playsets for these friends and their siblings.
Here, Pearl Monroe is referring to their work with Roc Solid which is a foundation that builds hope for families fighting cancer. Pearl Monroe and Carson Parry participated in building playsets for these families and were also the recipients of a playset during Pearl Monroe’s treatment. At the end of the construction of a playset, all participants sign the playset with a note of encouragement meant to lift the recipient’s spirit. Reading these notes buoyed both sisters during such a dark time.
Do you have any words of wisdom to anyone who is going through similar challenges as you both did during Pearl Monroe’s battle?
CP: Don’t ever give up. I feel like I have always been strong, and I was the same through it all. I would tell people who are going through this fight with cancer that it won’t last forever. You are always loved and cared for.
PM: You will get better. You will be healed even in very tough times. I was always very sensitive, but this made me get stronger and stronger. Faith is important; faith in Jesus; pray for friends.
The arduous, unfathomable journey for these girls has shaped these sisters into bold reflections of each other. They are unwavering in their gratitude for experiences like meeting Dolly Parton this year at Dollywood after holding up a sign for her to see. The sign simply read, “Dolly: Your music helped me beat cancer.” The battle against leukemia has provided Carson Parry and Pearl Monroe with experiences of a lifetime that have cemented their bond even in the unwelcome face of adversity. Their simple, profound answers in this interview showcase the life lessons of love, selflessness, resolve and familial bonds that make life worth celebrating.
Visit roeroesheroes.org to donate to Roe Roe’s Heroes Childhood Cancer Foundation.
