Sweet Friends,

Mother’s Day is here. As to be expected, this day is hard for this mama’s heart to bear. How do you say that you are still angry that your daughter isn’t here with you and that your heart is shattered into a million pieces without coming off as rude? The truth is, you really can’t. And this is just one of the many things that childhood cancer can do to a person. It takes so much from them and they will spend an eternity trying to make sense of it all while saying “I’m sorry” to those who come in the path of their rollercoaster of emotions. But there is one thing that childhood cancer cannot take from me, and that is the fact that I am still, and always will be Alexa’s mom. I was chosen to fiercely love and protect her and to take care of her throughout her life. What an incredible gift that has been! I watched as she fought back against a relentless brain tumor and never once let it steal her joy. I witnessed her incredibly big heart, that was so full of kindness and compassion, bring our community together in the name of raising money for life saving childhood cancer research.  My little girl’s roar was loud, and although her time with us was fleeting, she left her mark on this world in a big way! Every smile, tear, milestone, and setback is something that I will cherish forever. And to think that I was responsible for that brave soul is astounding!

Parenting is by far the hardest job that I have ever had, but the rewards make every intense moment worth it. And although childhood cancer took Alexa from our family, we have two beautiful girls who look at pictures and talk about their sister every day. The blessings I have received as a mom are amazing! On this Mother’s Day, take the time to snap those pictures, play those games, and dance until you all fall to the ground. Make those memories and hold those close that give you the greatest joy. Celebrate what you’ve been given, and celebrate YOU!

Happy Mother’s Day!

Katie Wilkin

Alexa’s Mom