It was surgery day. Dimaris was getting prepped and ready to defeat this. I could only imagine the emotions she was feeling. I knew she was nervous. I mean who wouldn’t be? This was her first surgery ever. All I could remember was her bravery. She was so calm, so poised, even made fun of herself a few times while waiting for them to tell her it was time.

Doctors, interns, nurses came in and out of the room to introduce themselves. I thought to myself, “Wow, this is really happening.”  

Her boyfriend so caring and attentive to her needs. My aunt held it together as she held her grandson’s blanky. She just stared at her.

What felt like forever they finally called her in. Her eyes glossy as she contained her tears while everyone took turns to give her a squeeze. She was strong. She was ready.