I just got off the phone with my Grandpa and he said that my Grandma has been diagnosed with breast cancer. I just got here, and now I feel like I should go home. What was I thinking leaving them for four weeks? I should be at home with them during this time. But, my Grandpa told me that they want me to stay here. They are happy I’m finally doing something I want to do.

Ever since my parents died when I was five they’ve taken care of me and I just feel like I should be there to take care of them. At the same time, it’s hard to think my grandma could die. I just can’t believe this is happening.

…

The staff had us pair of with our roommates and told us to be vulnerable with each other. To tell each other what we are really struggling with. Lana and I went for a walk on one of the trails around the campus.  I feel like we are definitely closer from that time together. I actually feel like I know who she is now, since she would never really talk to me before. I’m glad she could trust me enough to tell me about the pain she is feeling about her break up.

I told her about my grandma. I told her how I feel like I need to act happy all the time so people don’t worry about me. Lana told me it’s okay to admit if I need help sometimes. Life isn’t perfect or easy. There are so many people here who care for me and want to help me through this.