In June 2011, my mom, Lilly, was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Radiation and chemotherapy were a nightmare, but my mom said the hardest part of the process was the task of breaking the news to my twin brother and me. We had always seen her as strong and in control. We relied on her, and she had suddenly become limited in performing basic duties.

My brother and I took over grocery shopping, cleaning and doing the dishes. I’ll admit that I’ve always been directionally challenged, but after getting lost in the grocery store, I had to call my friend’s mom to ask in what aisle the peanut butter was located. Independence became a survival tool.