Happy Mother's Day!

In the world of cancer blogs, we are expected to focus on strength and bravery while glossing over the heartfelt moments that define our experiences. With Mother's Day right around the corner, I find myself reflecting on the incredible women who have profoundly influenced my life—my mom and sister.

My grandmother was the rock in our family, and my mom inherited that steadfastness after she passed. From offering unsolicited advice about how I and my sister should run our lives to showering us with love and support without ever seeking recognition, my mother has been a force of nature and strength. Though she may not admit it, her sacrifices have left an indelible mark on my heart. Yet, she may not realize that her strength and bravery continue to live on in me and my sister. No matter what life throws my way, she has always been there to help me get through it. Her constant support and guidance have been my rock during the most challenging times.

When I received the devastating news of my cancer diagnosis, at 3 am, I had my husband call my mom (at forty-seven, I still wanted my mom). My parents both drove to pick up my sister and drove over an hour's distance to be with me at the hospital. She has been my rock, from hospital stays to countless doctor's appointments, constantly reassuring me that everything will be okay. But there is another maternal figure in my life whose love knows no bounds – my sister. Despite our past differences, her transformation into a nurturing, protective force became apparent when she became a mother. I am unsure if having my nephew melted my sister's heart or awakened her maternal instinct, but my sister has been like a second mother through this battle, checking on me every night and telling me everything will be okay. It is funny because my sister tries to be so unlike my mom, but the soft side, the best side of my mom, is so apparent in her. 

Mothers, in all their forms, are the unsung heroes of our lives. Their love knows no bounds, and their sacrifices are endless. As I reflect on the profound impact my mother and sister have had on my journey, I am reminded that their love fuels my courage, their strength that keeps me going. With Mother's Day right around the corner, let's take a moment to celebrate the amazing women who have positively impacted our lives with their love, grace, and unwavering support.