How I felt when I heard about my mom: When I first heard that my mom had cervical cancer, I experienced mixed emotions. I was angry and determined to get my mom the help she needed. I was scared because I knew nothing about cervical cancer.
What I did to support her: I began researching, looking for doctors and information on what was our next step. I went to every appointment. My family and I were very involved in every aspect of her care. We were always positive and optimistic. We made sure that decisions for her care were what she wanted.
What was most difficult for me: The most difficult part was watching a strong independent woman become scared and completely dependent on her family. It was difficult watching her realize that she was scared and needed us more than ever. My mother was the matriarch of the family and was looked up to. It was very difficult to see her in so much pain and not be able to help her.
My advice for helping someone through a diagnosis: When I speak to anyone that is going through what my family and I went through, I always say that we have no regrets. There will never be a time that my family will say I wish I had been around more or I wish I did more. I would tell them they that they will never get that time back. Be there for them. Love them in their most difficult pains and through their amazing triumphs.
What I learned about my mom: I always knew my mother was a strong woman but I learned that she was an incredible fighter. Even through her most difficult times, she remained selfless and reminded us how important it is to remain faithful, whether in the best of situations or in the thick of trials.