When I was in seventh grade, my mom was diagnosed with lung cancer. I remember feeling a mix of fear and uncertainty as we tried to understand what the road ahead would look like. The year that followed her diagnosis was one of the most impactful periods of my life. Seeing her approach such a difficult diagnosis with determination and resilience continues to inspire the way I approach challenges in my own life. She endured intense treatments, setbacks, and moments of doubt, yet continued to move forward with strength.
At the same time, my family was also facing a loss, as my grandfather passed away from cancer earlier that year. Experiencing both my mom's battle and my grandfather's passing so close together gave me a profound understanding of how quickly life can change. Thankfully, my mom is now cancer-free, something I will never take for granted. Her journey, along with the loss of my grandfather, has given me a deep appreciation for the importance of research, support systems, and access to care for patients and families. I greatly appreciate your support in my fundraising efforts.