The Lesson of Family: Aways as a Rock

Family has always been the cornerstone of my life. Family is the steady foundation on which I’ve built who I am today. It’s not just about shared DNA; it’s about the people who walk with you through the highs and lows and hold you steady when life feels impossible. Through my journey with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) and all its challenges, my family has been my rock, my light, and my most significant reason to keep going.

From the beginning, my parents have been my unwavering support system. My mom, my ultimate fighter, has been the one pushing for answers when doctors couldn’t, staying up late researching, and holding me close when it all felt too heavy. Her persistence and resilience taught me that strength is love, patience, and hope. My dad, calm and steady, was the stability I needed. Whether rubbing my back all night to find some rest when sleep was a foreign thing to me due to the high dosage of prednisone or simply listening when I felt overwhelmed, he showed me the value of quiet, consistent support.

My siblings have been my teammates, my confidants, and my cheerleaders. They may not have always understood my struggles, but they’ve shown up in the most important ways, bringing laughter when I needed it and simply being present when words weren’t enough. Even when I felt different or like a burden, they never made me feel alone.

And then there are my cousins and extended family, who’ve been there through every chapter. We’ve shared countless memories, from Sunday dinners to family vacations, and their love has been a constant source of comfort. They’ve laughed with me, cried with me, and reminded me, even in my most challenging moments, that I’m more than my illness.

Family isn’t just about being there when things are easy. It’s about showing up in the messy, challenging moments but learning to love each other through differences, challenges, and pain. My family has taught me resilience, patience, and finding light even in the darkest times.

As I move forward, I carry their lessons with me: love deeply, show up fully, and remember that no matter what life throws at you, you’re never alone. Family is my backbone, a source of strength, and a constant reminder that life is worth celebrating , even with glitches.