Until this past summer, I (very fortunately) had no experiences involving cancer at all. I would always hear stories from others affected by cancer, and of course, I would empathize with these people, but never had it taken over the life of one of my loved ones. That is until my first best friend in the entire world was shaken by it. About nine months ago, my 21-year-old cousin Courtney was diagnosed with metastatic Ewing's Sarcoma. Now, despite her original frightening diagnosis, Courtney isn't just fighting her cancer, she's conquering it, and I'm absolutely certain that it has everything to do with her incredibly positive, determined mindset.

Over the past few months, despite being across the country away at college, I have kept in close contact with her, receiving daily updates from family members regarding the state of her medical condition, how her treatment is going, how she's doing, etc. In addition, I frequently reach out to her directly, for I know there is so much more to fighting cancer than surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Courtney has exhibited the most impeccable and admirable strength over the course of her treatment, and I could not be prouder to call her not only my cousin but my forever friend.

The truth about cancer is that nearly everyone will be impacted by its dark hand at some point or another, whether it takes over their own body or the body of a loved one, and this is why it is so crucial to be educated on everything involving this disease. It is quite important to stay up to date on the latest advances in cancer prevention and detection, and know your risks. In a hereditary sense, you can assess these risks by knowing which specific cancers, if any, run in your family. Get ahead and stay ahead; early detection is key. In many cases, it can be lifesaving. Educate yourself on self-assessment techniques, and know the warning signs. Your body is always talking to you; listen to it. In Courtney's case, it was simply a genetic mutation early on in her life that caused her cancer, and unfortunately, that is the way it is sometimes. Life's simply not fair. Some of the time, though, it can be prevented by varying lifestyle choices, such as healthy eating habits, frequent exercise, and overall, treating your body well. Being so directly affected by cancer (with Courtney's diagnosis) has encouraged me to conduct research and educate myself further on all things cancer, but it needs to be something that all people are aware of if we are ever going to find the cure to this terrible disease.

Although I could not possibly understand what it takes to fight cancer, through seeing what my dear cousin has gone through, I have an idea of what it takes. Fighting cancer takes strength beyond words. Fighting cancer means consistent prayer and hope. Fighting cancer means pushing through the pain when you think you cannot push anymore. Fighting cancer means taking care of your mental health, in order to physically battle your disease. Fighting cancer involves knowing that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and you will get there. Fighting cancer involves support, support from your family, from your friends, you're your teammates. After all, no one fights alone. However, it also takes education about cancer itself: what it is as well as how it can be prevented.

Court, if you're reading this, I love you endlessly and am forever thinking of you. Your strength inspires me each and every day! Keep persevering, and you can beat this damn thing. You have an entire army behind you. XOXO, Ali.