You Shouldn't Have to Say Goodbye — Patricia Hermes

From the moment thirteen-year-old Sarah Morrow hugs her mother on that dreary afternoon, it's clear that something is wrong. Usually filled with giggles and spectacular ideas, her mom winces with pain instead. Though she laughs it off quickly, Sarah is worried.

Days later, Sarah's mom checks into the hospital, and when she emerges the news is unbearable. She's dying of cancer, and there is nothing the doctors can do.

Unwilling to accept the news, Sarah throws herself into gymnastics practice and with the help of her friend Robin, struggles to believe that everything will be okay. But Sarah cannot fight the truth for long. As Sarah, her mom, and her dad confront what they are about to lose, each finds real happiness in the time that is left.

When the day of the gymnastics exhibition finally arrives, Sarah discovers how lucky they have all truly been.