My life changed forever in 2008. My only brother was diagnosed with brain cancer, and my grandmother and aunt were diagnosed with colon cancer. I was so young that I didn't know in the beginning exactly how this would change me. How does a family get through such a tough time? I learned five important things to live by from these very important people in my life. I share these in hopes that others going through similar experiences will be encouraged.

1. Never Ever Give Up

People battling cancer are faced with many obstacles. Living with my brother who was diagnosed with cancer TWICE I saw it first hand. On top of that, my grandmother and aunt were fighting cancer at the same time. Just when things seemed like they were turning around we would get hit with another low blow. After doctors told us that the cancer was gone, just a few months later it was back. I felt like I was losing hope at times, but I refused to give up just because I saw how strong my brother was. I couldn't let him show me up, after all he was the one actually fighting cancer. I was just looking from the outside in.

2. Be Grateful

Before seeing how cancer affects a person, I took a lot of things for granted. One moment everything was fine, my family and I were living normal lives and the next we weren't. Some people who battle cancer have days that they can't do simple everyday things by themselves because they feel so weak or sick. Cancer survivors taught me to be grateful for even the smallest things because it can all be taken away from us in a split second.

3. Cherish the Memories, Both Good and Bad

You would think that the life of a cancer patient wouldn't have any good memories but that is totally wrong, at least in my experience. Some of my fondest memories I have were during the time when my brother, grandmother and aunt were going through their journey. Sometimes in tough situations you have no choice but to make the best of them because if you don't it will kill you.

4. Family is Important

Having a strong support system is so important to families when they are going through cancer. Being able to depend on others for guidance, a listening ear or something as simple as hug can be life-saving and give you a reason to fight another day. Family and friends help to keep you grounded and sane when the world seems like it's against you.

5. Miracles Do Happen

Yes, I believe in miracles. Faith is the key to healing. Hope is all that some people have when fighting and battling cancer. For me a miracle is when you're delivered from a disease or situation that could have ended a life. Miracles are God given. But first you have to believe.

Faith~Hope~Love

Each day I am reminded that I have another chance to dream and fight a little harder to make this life worth living. I am reminded by my brother that if you stay positive and focus on the good, good things will come my way. I am reminded by my grandmother that family is everything and its okay to bring everyone along for the journey. And lastly, I am reminded by my aunt that even though we don't always win our battles, we will forever leave a mark on the earth that will never ever be forgotten. RIP Aunt ReRe!