October is breast cancer awareness month. My family, like many families, has been affected by breast cancer. I never met my maternal grandmother, as she passed away from breast cancer before I was born. When I’ve heard the question asked ” If you could have dinner with any three people (dead or alive) who would they be?” She is always the first one that comes to mind.

I have a cousin who is living with stage 4 breast cancer. It’s been hard to watch her struggle with the side effects of chemo and no longer being able to do all that she could. And yet, her courage, determination, and faith have only grown stronger.

Cancer is a terrible disease and I pray there will be a cure soon. Until then, I am forever amazed by those who continue to live with it, the caregivers who provide so much physical and emotional support and the medical staff that go above and beyond to help everyone involved.