National Caregivers Month.

November is 'National Caregivers Month'. And I thought, in a month where we focus on being THANKFUL for so many things, it seems like a pretty perfect time to share how thankful I am for Dad's caregiver- my Mom. 

When I was just 10 years old I watched the battle against cancer through my Granny's eyes. I watched as cancer took her hair, her strength, and her energy. I watched, not fully understanding what cancer really was, or what her treatments involved, but I watched because my parents did not want us to be sheltered to that fight. And today, I'm so incredibly thankful for that. 

I watched as my Mom and my Aunt took turns staying with my Granny at night during those difficult days. I watched as they loved and cared for their mom throughout some of the darkest of hours, and I watched as they did this with unconditional love. 

I learned from both my Mom and my Aunt, even at age 10, what it meant to be there for those you love, to do for others "just because", and what it meant to lean on faith during difficult times. I learned what it meant to be a caregiver. 

And now, 17 years later I'm watching as an adult, who still doesn't fully understand the WHY in it all, but I'm watching with open eyes and such a full heart as Mom cares for my Dad. 

It's not just cooking meals, or helping with the yard, those things are wonderful and Mom goes above and beyond to do things around the house that Dad once did, because sometimes he just isn't feeling well enough to do those things- but it's the late nights when he's not feeling well, or just staying positive when it seems like all the odds are against us. 

She is selfless and strong. She is relentless and faithful. 

I think that Granny's battle 17 years ago really prepared Mom, and our entire family, for this journey. I think seeing my Mom and Aunt as amazing caregivers throughout her cancer journey, prepared me to know what cancer looked like- and sometimes it's so incredibly ugly. 

But I have always said there is beauty in our journey. And I know for a fact I wouldn't see this beauty without my incredibly strong, faithful and determined Mom. She has stood by Dad through some of our darkest days, and she continues to stand strong next to Dad on the journey ahead. 

So this month, I want to thank my Mom and Aunt for showing me what a wonderful caregiver looks like- someone who is selfless, faithful, and strong. And this month, I want to especially thank my Mom for all the sacrifices she has made these last 2 years- from the sleepless nights, to the early morning appointments, and everything in between- she's been the rock of our family, the faithful leader we all look up to, and the strength we all need (especially Dad) to beat this disease. 

Thank you to all the wonderful caregivers out there!

Dad Update: Chemo week is almost complete- and once again these two have handled it with so much beauty and grace. I'm so proud of both of them throughout this journey. 

Continue the prayers, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!