October is a time for reflection, especially as we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For me, it’s a time to honor my aunt—the woman who has been more than just family, she has been a fighter, a role model, and my favorite person in the world.

When I was 12, my aunt had this little yellow Corvette, a car that turned heads everywhere we went. Every weekend, I looked forward to the moments we would spend together—just the two of us. She would take me shopping, and I’ll never forget how she always bought me the most expensive clothes. At a time when I didn’t understand the value of things, she still made sure I felt like the most special kid in the world. She spoiled me, not just with material things, but with her time, her attention, and her love.

Those days were filled with laughter and joy, cruising in that yellow Corvette with the windows down, the wind in our hair, and no worries in the world. She taught me so much about confidence and what it means to stand tall in your skin. Little did I know, she was also teaching me what it means to be a fighter.

My aunt is a breast cancer survivor. She has fought battles that most of us can’t even imagine, but through it all, she has remained the strong, loving, and generous woman that she has always been. Watching her face cancer with courage and grace only made me love and admire her more. She’s shown me that life’s hardest moments don’t define us, but how we rise from them does.

This is why she’s my favorite—why I will always look up to her. Her journey has taught me that no matter what we face, we are never alone. This month, I honor her fight and the fight of every person touched by breast cancer. To my aunt, the ultimate warrior—you are my inspiration. I love you more than words can say.