Life was getting a bit complicated at 14. I just started highschool, and I was worried about finding friends and handling the new responsibilities. But then, out of the blue, my mom got cancer. It was like a punch in the gut. Just as I was starting to worry about high school, I found myself facing something much scarier.

The doctors mentioned something called glioblastoma, a really aggressive kind of brain cancer. It was terrifying. After a surgery early on, the doctors managed to remove 97% of her tumor. There were moments during her treatment when it seemed like things might get better. We were cautiously optimistic and saw her improving, and I dared to hope. But then, everything went downhill fast. 

As her health got worse, it wasn't just her suffering that weighed on me. I had to give up ballet, something I loved, to be there for her. Watching her struggle took a toll on my mental health. At times, I found myself clinging to hope, convincing myself that my mom would get better. But as much as I wanted to believe it, the reality was harsh. Despite my optimism, her condition didn't improve. It was a heartbreaking realization that no amount of wishful thinking could change.

Cancer affected everyone around us—our family, our friends. It was like this dark cloud hanging over everything. Even now, life feels kind of empty without her. Losing her so early was something I never expected. But even though it was tough, I'm determined to keep her memory alive. That's why I'm fundraising for Relay for Life. Every donation helps others going through the same thing, and it's my way to honor her.