Robert, United Kingdom

My mother's cancer journey began with breast cancer, which initially went into remission before returning as metastasised bone cancer. Yet throughout this challenging time, she showed remarkable resilience by choosing to embrace life fully. She discovered new passions, learning to paint and write poetry, and became an active member of her local church community. Together, we embarked on memorable road trips across the country, from Land's End to Scarborough, creating precious memories along the way.

As her carer, I found that some of our most meaningful moments came from simply being present - driving her to hospital appointments, sharing family meals, and making every day count through family outings. Yet the most challenging aspect of caring was witnessing her pain, feeling helpless in the face of her suffering. I'll never forget when she wrote a poem titled "It's not me" - a heartbreaking reflection of how cancer had impacted her sense of self.

Supporting carers is crucial because they carry both the practical and emotional weight of walking alongside their loved ones through the cancer journey. They witness the daily struggles, celebrate the small victories, and face the profound challenge of watching someone they love experience pain they cannot ease. Yet through it all, as my mother showed me, there are still opportunities to find meaning, create memories, and express love - even in the midst of life's most difficult chapters.