The Importance of Family

When I was a freshman in high school, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Initially, everything about the situation seemed surreal. You never think situations like that are going to happen to you, until they actually do. It was a very straining time, emotionally, and all of our heads were filled with fear. We talked about every aspect of the disease and treatment as a family and were able to prepare mentally. Luckily, because of the early diagnosis, she was able to go through chemo and was eventually deemed cancer-free. Throughout the entire time, I remember feeling hopeful and positive; something I know I would not have been able to do without my family by my side. We were all rather close prior to the cancer and came together even more as a system of support for one another. I always knew I had someone to talk to and help ease any worry. One of my mother's co-workers was also diagnosed around the same time as my mom. Her situation was vastly different from my mom's as she was unmarried, and had few family members to turn to. No one should have to go through something as painful as cancer by themselves. I can't imagine not having my family by my side and I know I would probably feel completely different about everything had they not been there. Though it was definitely not a positive situation, the outcome was very favorable as I now appreciate my family more.