My name is Kieryn Emilee Hewitt, and I have been affected by cancer since I was born. I live in Rye, New Hampshire, and I attend Plymouth State University pursuing my

Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. I am a caregiver, one who can now share my father’s story.

My father’s cancer story started in December 2002 when he was diagnosed with Stage IV stomach cancer. My mom was almost in her third trimester with me. By January, most of his stomach was removed and he began chemotherapy and radiation. His care team didn’t think he’d survive long enough to meet me.

On April 2nd, I was born, and we had three amazing years together.  During those years, we attended Relay for Life together and watched the Red Sox together, and I would help him whenever he experienced the side effects of treatments. We tried to be a normal and happy family until September 10th, 2006, when cancer robbed my family of everything. My dad died overnight, nine days before his birthday. Growing up, I felt like I was cheated by cancer and I still feel this way. I was cheated out of moments when I needed his advice, and I was cheated out of celebrating milestones with him by my side. I’ve completed so many milestones, and I know that he won’t be there for the ones I have yet to reach.

The American Cancer Society gave me a way to turn my grief into motivation, and they gave me hope. I hope that one day, there won’t be another little girl out in the world experiencing the grief and pain I felt losing my dad. Hope that one day, no child will ever have to celebrate a milestone without their parent again.