I was always invited but unable to go, because taking care of my abuela was my full time job. My abuela was my best friend; I will always love her. She was always there for me, and I am thankful I had the opportunity to be there for her despite the personal sacrifice. Thinking about not being able to live a normal childhood hurts me. As a teenager, I expected to go out with friends and have fun, and enjoy a carefree life with no major responsibilities. I thought my biggest worry would be homework; instead, I was dealing with Alzheimer's. At the early age of sixty, my abuela's Alzheimer's worsened. In the beginning, she’d forget small things. Then on what seemed to be a normal Monday, we came home to black smoke exiting the house and firefighters in our driveway. My grandmother had forgotten to turn off the stove. Ever since then, we knew she couldn’t be left alone. With my mother working night shifts and my father putting in overtime to provide for our family, I was the designated caregiver. Abuela was my responsibility. My parents tried the best they could to watch her, but their schedule was full. I’d take most of the responsibility. School from eight to four and abuela full-time. I would break down seeing others live the life I wished to have. However, with time, I came to understand I did the right thing. Although I missed out on once in a lifetime moments, I don’t regret it. Spending those last few moments with my abuela were special. Taking care of her changed me. She taught me to be patient with others. She’d tell me everyone has their own battles. She taught me to be considerate to others and be kind. She’d say “No cuesta nada ser amable.” It doesn’t cost anything to be kind. Most importantly she taught me to face challenges. She had a saying “Nunca se rinde uno, nada es para siempre.” Meaning, never give up, nothing lasts forever. My abuela is the definition of never giving up. She suffered many losses in her life. At age fifteen, her father passed away and only a year after her mother passed. Being the oldest, she had to take charge and be there for her siblings. Being presented with these obstacles, she made the most of the situation. Because of abuela I know that life is presented with inevitable obstacles, and the best way to overcome them is to face them head on. She is the reason I am who I am today. She taught me the most valuable life lessons I know. Sadly, I realized this too late. About a year ago she passed away. I wish to go back, spend one more second with her. Although I might have not been able to go out with friends or live a “normal” childhood, I wouldn’t trade it for anything else. Caring for abuela changed me, it made me into the better person I am today.