My mom was an amazing woman. She was extremely accomplished – in her professional and her personal life. While I was only able to spend just under 19 years of my life with her, she taught me things that are invaluable and I wouldn't trade for the world.

My mom was the most caring person I've ever met. Whenever someone was in trouble, no matter what it may be, she was always the first one to help. She knew from a young age she wanted to help people, so she took to the medical profession. She loved her work so much that she did whatever may need doing, whether or not it was in her job description. She would become a chef, nurse, caregiver, and even just a shoulder to cry on because she couldn't stand to see people suffer. She showed me how to care for people in a way only a mother could teach a daughter.

She taught me to reach for the stars and not care what anyone else thinks – as long as I'm doing something I love, it won't matter. She taught me to love unconditionally. I've never seen as much love as I did coming from my mom. No matter what I did, no matter how many times I'd get mad and say some stupid remark to her, her love never wavered. She was always my biggest supporter. Every volleyball game, every soccer game, every ballet recital, every theater performance, every choir concert, I could always hear my mom cheering for me over all the other parents.

She taught me how to challenge myself, and to take risks. If I could get an easy A in a class, I was not pushing myself to my fullest capability. She taught me that I can do so much as long as I continue to challenge myself and to push myself. Whenever I'd feel down about a grade or an argument with a friend, she'd always tell me, "Hey, who's got your back? That's right. I do." She never let me feel bad about myself, because to her I was the Sun and nothing can keep the Sun down.

She's taught me so much and because of that, I can now say this. Don't take anything for granted. Does your mom annoy you? Well mine did too but at the end of the day, I always knew she was going to be there for me no matter what. Don't let petty fights get in the way of a fantastic relationship with your parent because no one loves you like they do. Call your mom just to talk about your day, ask her how her's was. Tell her some little detail that you don't really think matters, but you know what, she will. If something reminds you of her, tell her, don't just let it pass you by. Tell her you love her because one day you won't be able to anymore and you're going to wish that you said it more. Sometimes you realize too late how much your parents mean to you so don't wait to talk to them, tell them now.