The Strength of Resilience and Kindness    By Ester Mazreku On the left, the author, Ester; on the right, her mum, Nida. When I think about an incredible woman in my life, my mother, Nida, immediately comes to mind.   While many might say the same about their mothers, what inspires me most about mine goes far beyond her strength as a mother. She has shown me that resilience and kindness are among the greatest qualities a woman can embody.   Let me share a glimpse of her story—not just as my...

The Hope of Roses    By Íris Franco     On the left, the author, Íris; on the right, her aunt, Luzimira. It all began in May 2011, in the prime of life, when she discovered a hard lump in the upper quadrant of her right breast. Luzimira de Carvalho, as she was known then, 29 years old, saw her world crumble upon receiving the diagnosis: stage 2A breast cancer with intraductal invasion.  It was a shock for all of us—but even more so for her: so young, full of energy, dreams, plans, and...

Daring to Choose Your Own Path, Having the Courage to Follow Your Passion   By Orlane W illems     It is often said that life is made of choices. For me, the greatest one was this: to continue on a demanding and passionate path in medicine, or to abandon that secure road for the burning uncertainty of music. Between the stability of a recognized career and the dazzling fragility of a dream, I chose the unexpected.  Yet nothing in my upbringing pointed me toward either of these worlds. I grew...