“They pretend you only go to hospital to get better. But really you come here to die too.” 

Oscar is introduced at a turning point in his life where he understands he is dying. Before the story opens, Oscar was a happy patient, one with a hopeful prognosis that made doctors joyful around him. Now Oscar understands that the adults around him—doctors and his parents—are avoiding the possibility and reality of his death.

“Every time you believe in him, he’ll exist a bit more. If you keep at it, he’ll exist completely. Then, he’ll do you good.”

Granny Rose explains the progression of Christian faith in simple, clear steps. She understands that Oscar is skeptical of God’s existence and does not force belief upon him. Instead, she maps a path for Oscar to develop his faith in small steps, promising good returns for his eventual belief.

“Let him know what you’re thinking. The things you don’t say - they’re the things that weigh on you, they take a hold, ear you down, paralyse you.” 

Granny Rose introduces Oscar to the power of prayer. She understands why the adults avoid talking to Oscar openly about his diagnosis, but she also understands the weight this places upon him as he carries the burden of his death alone.