Chapter 12

In this chapter, which is the longest one in the novel, Landon discovers that Jamie has leukaemia. Jamie and her father have known about this for seven months, but they decided to not tell anyone about it because they did not want to be pitied. Finally, Landon tells his mother and Hegbert informs the congregation. Thereafter, Jamie stops going to school to spend more time with her father. Landon visits her after school every day. On some days, when Jamie is too weak, they step out of the house.

Landon finds himself unable to deal with this situation all by himself. He, therefore, turns to the Bible to seek answers to his questions. He also finds comfort in the Book of Psalms. Jamie and Landon begin to study the Bible together. People from the town often stop by to visit Jamie or leave gifts for her. One day, Eric and Margaret come to visit. Eric apologises for Jamie’s condition and says that he believes she is the kindest person he has ever met. Both Eric and Margaret weep openly, and Jamie gives them a tight hug.

As Landon continues to hope for a miracle, Jamie’s condition begins to worsen. She needs to visit the hospital more often, but she tells Landon that she does not want to die in a hospital. Landon’s mother then calls his father home, and the two of them decide to pay for full-time, in-home medical care for Jamie.

One day, Landon has an idea and rushes to the church to discuss it with Hegbert. Hegbert is shocked on hearing Landon’s plan but agrees to it. Landon then runs to Jamie’s and asks her to marry him.

This chapter is filled with emotions. Everyone in the congregation is sad to hear about Jamie’s illness, including those who used to mock her. They all agree that Jamie does not deserve this. The chapter compels readers to cry. This chapter also marks the growth and transformation that Landon has undergone. He spends his time praying for a miracle and thinking of ways to fill Jamie’s days with comfort and happiness. Like Jamie, he becomes selfless and generous.