KIMBERLY'S STORY - My mother, SueAnn Silva, was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2006. It was a tough journey for her, but she never gave up and always had hope. In the end she shared a very precious secret with me: the only reason why she fought so hard was for me. Etched in my heart and treasured forever are the many memories we had together. Now that she is gone, memories of my mother comfort me in the good times and the bad. I miss her more than words can ever describe, but she left me with a positive attitude. She made me strong and grateful to have been blessed with such a wonderful mother and with many precious memories of the short time we shared on earth. I wholeheartedly believe that, although my mom has passed on, her spirit lives on in me.

My mother was always the strong one in the family, but now she left me to take her place. This December my maternal grandmother, Eva, was diagnosed with breast cancer. My immediate reaction was, 'WOW! Not again!' But I know now that she is not going to be alone; I will make sure of that. I am strong like my mother and will be strong for the both of us. This time it is even better because we have a guardian angel from above looking over her too -- my mom.

Kimberly Azcarate, Nursing student at UTEP and former 2007-2008 Teens for the Cure committee Member.