Keirsten, Canada

My father taught me to live each day fully, be present, and support others. His strength during his illness was drawn from his love for our family. Though caring for him was difficult, it showed me just how much he cared. The greatest honour was being with him in his final moments, and I hope he felt all the love and peace.

The hardest part was the lack of support for my family, especially my mother, after his passing. While there was support initially, it vanished, leaving us to handle our grief alone. My hope is that one day, we will all grieve together, but if not, I wish that each of us finds the support and time needed to heal individually.

As a daughter, nursing student, and caregiver, my experiences during my father's illness are unique and unforgettable. On World Cancer Day, I remember that while cancer took my father, it could never take away his spirit and memory. He remains the loving and inspiring father who taught me to grow into the woman I am today.