Written by Andrean Maier (She is attending the May 2013 Legacy Retreat with her family.)

I am the middlest child. I am 10. And I have another perspective. You know that over the last few months my mom has been struggling with stage 4 ovarian cancer. It was strange because I would have never thought anyone in my family could have cancer.

I remember the day when my dad told us. It was the worst day of my life. I thought he was kidding. When he told us he was serious, then I thought she was going to die and I was scared. I am still worried, but I know that God has a plan for her and for me.

Everyone has been helping us so much and we are thankful. My friends write nice notes that encourage me. My teachers at school tell me they are praying for me. My brother and sisters are getting closer because we are all helping mom and dad together. It is also helping us to not fight (at least not as much). My faith has grown in this. I believe God will protect our family. I take church more seriously now. I always listened to the sermons, but now I understand them more.

I wish my mom could come out and jump on the trampoline with us. But dad says she has her own ups and downs even without the trampoline.

On her Legacy Retreat, Andrean is going to meet many other kids who know how she feels and what she is going through.  She is going to make life long friendships and grow even closer to her own siblings and parents. She is also going to have a blast riding rides, seeing characters, playing games, swimming, and making memories!