My mother died. I was left

The author reflects on the loss of their mother to metastatic breast cancer, which progressed rapidly over nine months. Initially diagnosed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the mother underwent treatments that ultimately could not prevent her decline. The author describes the profound impact of the illness on their life and the challenges of anticipatory grief. They emphasize the importance of discussing advanced cancer and the need for awareness beyond survival stories, advocating for better understanding and research into metastatic breast cancer. The piece serves as a reminder of the personal stories behind cancer statistics and the ongoing struggle of those left behind.