My Mother's Story and Her Battle with Cancer

Photo taken at my grandmother Ramona Diaz Maro's house, around 1987 to 1990, along with my mother Maria Dolores Tirado Diaz. — This photo was taken at my grandmother Ramona Diaz Maro's house between 1987 and 1990, with my mother Maria Dolores Tirado Diaz.

Hello everyone,

I want to share a very personal part of my life that has profoundly impacted me and, in many ways, motivated "Cancer In My Journey LLC."

When I was 12 years old, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent a radical mastectomy and received chemotherapy and radiation treatments. These treatments were extremely tough on her, weakening her physically and causing her intense pain, vomiting, hair loss, and depression.

One of my mother's greatest fears while battling the disease was not being able to finish raising me. Despite her struggle with cancer, she was the economic support of our family and continued working until I turned 23. My mother dedicated 27 years as a teacher, working at María Dávila Semidey School in Patillas, Puerto Rico.

This part of my life was sad and unsettling, confronting me with the harsh reality that people get sick, suffer, and die. Living through that pain brought me to accept what I cannot change, appreciate the happiness of being here today, and ask myself what I can do to make this moment memorable.

During this time, I lost my most beloved ones: my grandmother, my mother, and my father. This experience is not the reason I want to help others; it is what forged and prepared me to face my battle with cancer.

I share this story, hoping to provide support and strength to those going through similar situations. The fight against cancer is tough, but with love, courage, and mutual support, we can find the strength to move forward.

Thank you for reading my story. I invite you to share your experiences and support each other in this forum.

With love,

Felix Garcia Tirado