My sister has survived a very malignant and aggressive cancer in her temple, under her cheek bone, and on her optic nerve. She found the lump in her temple one month after her daughter was born.. and in addition had a re-occurrence one year later. She has under gone 3 surgeries, serious radiation to her head, blood tests, and multiple scans and MRI(s). In the course of her radiation and surgery.. she was caused double vision, loss of taste, loss of sense of smell, and loss of mobility in her jaw (which causes her not to have the ability to open her mouth more than the width of her pointer finger). With all of this she is the most optimistic person that I know. She says that she doesn't regret going through any of her experiences with it.. she says it has made her a better person. She constantly says that now she appreciates and values life more than she has ever before. She always says that she doesn't want anyone to feel sorry for her because she is grateful for everything that has brought her to this point in her life... even the cancer that she has beaten. So I nominate her because I am baffled by her strength, perseverance, and perception of LIFE!! Samantha Toyos is a FIGHTER, WINNER and SURVIVOR!! I Love you.. SISTER! <3

Signed,
Tiffany Bucher