"I’m used to telling other people’s stories, not my own—but here goes… Cancer is an evil word in our family, as it is in so many others. My father, father-in-law, mother-in-law and great-nephew are living with it. My brave mother and aunt survived breast cancer. But it has also taken too much from us, including my parents’ firstborn son and our niece just 10 months ago. For various reasons, I have chosen to take an aggressive approach. I wrestled with the treatment options given, but my dear friend put it simply: “I would do whatever I needed to stay here as long as possible for my children.” Will said, “I am selfish—I want you here as long as possible.” And Liam sealed it for me: “Mom, I want you to get it over with.” Done, buddy… I know what it’s like to live with something constantly hanging over you. Infertility did that for five years—but the reward was sooo worth it. For a long time, I didn’t talk about it and carried that pain quietly. Once I opened up, I realized I wasn’t alone. Then and now... So, I am choosing to begin this journey with an open and honest heart. I found myself looking back at something I wrote for Harper—and realized it’s what I needed to hear now: I hope I am brave, strong, fierce, compassionate and forever guided by the angels who protect me every day. -Liz"