No man is an island. I remember the first time I wrote those words 17 years ago when applying for college. I had just finished chemotherapy for my first bout with cancer and was ready to take the world on the way I had taken my cancer on: head-first.

There are a lot of blessings in my life — my family, friends, and people that I have met on my journey — and I have always strived to be the best person I can for all of them. All their sacrifices and support throughout my life have been a reason to honor them.

Yet sometimes in life, we all feel like a lone isle caught in a tempest. Sometimes the winds and rain and waves feel like they are about to engulf us, the weight of the world keeping us from being able to even breathe. And in those times, that lesson I learned so long ago feels like a faint memory.

But I am not alone. I never have been. And while I am a prideful person who always believes I can do everything myself, I now am reminded that even I need help getting up after the storm.

I am currently dealing with long-term side effects from my second cancer treatment from seven years ago (my God, where did the time go?). I am going to require extensive dental reconstruction, as the radiation therapy has slowly but surely destroyed my teeth. The cost is great, but I know that my friends and family have my back and that we will get through this together. Because no man is an island. And as the storm breaks and the sun shines down again, I can see all of you — all of us — together and strong.

So I humbly ask: please donate what you can and help me get my smile back.