Yellow and black cancer awareness wristbands have been part of my wardrobe for the past eight months; not exactly a statement of fashion, but more one of compassion, consideration, and a plea for clemency. Every morning when I wake up, these two bands remind me each and every day of Madeleine’s struggle.

   It was on Facebook where I first read about Madeleine’s cancer. It was January 5th and I had just come home from school. I logged on Facebook and was scrolling through my newsfeed when I saw a post from Madeleine, a childhood friend who now attends our local community college. As soon as I read the post, breaking the news that she had been diagnosed with melanoma, I could feel the tears building up underneath my eyelids. Worried, I searched the internet trying to find information that could help predict whether or not my friend would survive. The internet failed to provide me with any promise of recovery for Madeleine. As her friend, I wanted to offer support in any way that I could.

   I have been privileged to attend Cardinal Newman High School, a Catholic high school where religion classes are mandatory. In these classes we learn about faith, social justice, and morality. Each day in our religion class we are asked to offer special intentions, and before Madeleine’s encounter with cancer I truly did not recognize the significance of offering intentions. Since my friend’s diagnosis, offering intentions has become more meaningful and has become a part of religion class that I take much more seriously. Each time we are given the opportunity to offer our intentions, I feel as though me and my peers are our own little community; a community in which people support one another and one where I am comfortable sharing not only my struggles and aspirations, but the struggles and aspirations of those who are close to me.

   When my classmates offer intentions, I pause and reflect on whatever it is they have to share. It is important to listen. There is power in hearing the prayers, hopes, and dreams of my peers. It is just as important for me to hear their intentions as it is for them to hear mine. Even if no one says anything to me or asks me about Madeleine, the fact that we pray together makes me feel acknowledged and supported. While I do not consider myself to be a significantly religious person, I am grateful for the opportunities that Cardinal Newman has given me. It has provided a competitive classroom environment that is both nurturing and supportive. It has also provided me with a greater sense of my spirituality.

   I now realize the significance of a supportive environment as I strive to make intentions realities. Being a part of this school community has helped me understand the importance of making connections with other people. It has allowed me to share my ideas, hopes, and prayers for the future.