When I was younger, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. I barely understood what it meant at the time. She never showed weakness, never wanted us to see her struggle, and continued to push forward at all times to provide for her family.

A few years ago, my step-brother was diagnosed with lymphoma while raising his young toddler. He was only in his twenties while having to deal with this, all while keeping his composure and spirits high for his son, his partner, his friends, and his family.

Recently I have thought more and more about what it means to be role model, what it means to be resilient, and what it means to show up for other people. In their fights against cancer, they showed their resilience but more importantly their character. Even when facing their hardest battles, they still put others before themselves because they knew that they had a responsibility to show up for those that needed them and trusted them to always be there. I could not think of 2 better role models in my life.

This year, my mother celebrates her 20th anniversary of beating breast cancer. My brother was able to celebrate for 2 years of beating cancer, but now has to continue his fight into round 2.

So this year, I fight to celebrate their past victories, future victories, and the victories of everyone else who has overcome their struggles. And I hope that I might be able to inspire those still fighting their battles, whatever they may be, to keep pushing, never give up, and be the best they can be for themselves and for others, the same way they have inspired me.

"Uva uvam vivendo varia fit"