I have always tried my hardest to be as independent as possible in every situation, but sometimes it truly does take a village. Once I found out my mother’s cancer came back, the idea of returning to Las Vegas after break seemed nearly impossible. The thought of being away from my mom was too much to comprehend and I felt as though I would be letting her down. What I did not realize was the community of strength and hope standing behind us ready to carry us through every step.

From the moment I made the decision to return to school, the outpour of love for our family was unbelievable. My messages filled with people asking to drive my mom to chemo or deliver dinner to her. Many saw these as small acts of kindness, but to me it meant everything. It meant that our family had hope, something we needed now more than ever. These simple messages were the light I needed to guide me through the darkest tunnel I had seemed to fall into.

Upon returning to Vegas I knew life would be a lot harder, but I don’t think I realized just how challenging everyday would be. Waking up in the morning it always felt like I had a bag of stones on my body weighing down my chest. In class I found myself dozing off due to my inability to sleep through the night because of my anxiety. My nights at the library consisted of little work being done, but lots of tears being shed. The unbelievable thing was no matter how many tears I’ve shed and calls I’ve made shaking from anxiety, my Vegas family has never left my side. They show me unconditional love and are a constant reminder of hope with every smile they send.

Through every breakdown Paige has texted me to remind me how proud she is for the little things. She has made something as simple as studying without crying feel like such a huge accomplishment and step towards feeling like myself. My friends have taken me in and made it their priority to help me get on track and feel nothing but support while I am away from home.

This past week I was sitting in class and suddenly received a text that felt like God had sent from heaven. My eyes filled with tears and my heart began racing as I saw my mom state, “the chemo is working and the tumors are shrinking”. The first thing I did was call my Vegas friends to let them know the news and they immediately ran to me with hugs and love. As we stood there in the middle of the busiest part of campus crying and hugging, I couldn’t thank everyone enough for getting us here.

It is the people who have stepped up to help that made this moment possible. I could never thank every person who has done anything for my mom enough for being a light in the darkness. You are the reason we are able to remain hopeful and be here celebrating these achievements. This is not something that would be possible to handle on our own, but because of our beautiful community we are getting through this together. Cancer may be strong, but our family bond and the endless support are stronger.

I am so incredibly proud of my beautiful, courageous, and strong mom for waking up everyday ready to fight. I love you more than anything mommy. Finding hope hasn’t been the easiest, but you have made it possible.

Love Always,

Malorie