In Their Own Words: The Strength Of A Mother
October 24, 2024 | General, Men's Volleyball, Features
UC Irvine Athletics would like to remember and honor those who are affected by breast cancer during the month of October. Men's volleyball student-athlete Shane Aitken shares the inspiring strength his mother displayed during her battle.
In Their Own Words - Shane Aitken
My mom was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in March 2014. A month prior to her diagnosis, my older brother Jack got into a skiing accident that resulted in him breaking his femur and both of his arms. 2014 was a tough year for my family of six, as Jack needed constant care due to his injury, while my mom was undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation for her breast cancer.
Being so young at the time, I didn't fully understand what was going on and although I could feel that something was wrong, my mom did everything in her power to make it seem like everything was normal. She took care of my brother, made my family meal after meal, drove us to school, practiced law and so much more, all without a complaint in the world. She did all of this despite being constantly sick, in pain and having no energy.
It was the most impressive display of strength that I will ever see in my entire life. My mom acted like Superwoman in 2014, and her strength is what kept my family going. She ended up making a full recovery and is cancer free to this day.
Mom, I'm so grateful for you and love you so much. Thank you for all that you do for us and inspiring me to give it my all everyday.
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