It goes without saying that life hands every single one of us unexpected struggles that we need to overcome. Whether it’s a death in the family, homelessness, or a life-threatening illness, humans are tested on a daily basis. Sadly, this woman faced an incredible number of struggles in a very short period of time, but thanks to her perseverance and the help of her son, they both came out victorious!After losing the love of her life, and the father to her only son, Patricia had no clue how she was going to raise their child alone, but she managed to make ends meet. Unfortunately, Patricia would soon find out that her heartbreaking struggles were only beginning.
As she tried to fight the deadly illness, Patricia fell into a coma from the effects of the aggressive chemotherapy that she was going through. Eventually, Patricia beat the disease, but she still had to learn how to walk, how to talk, and how to take care of her nine-year-old son all on her own.
When Patricia was laid off from her job, Kenneth, who was just 18 at the time, was left in the position to put his plans for college on the back burner. As much as he wanted to continue on with his education, he knew that he was needed at home with his mother. Eventually, they were able to get back on their feet, but they were without a place to live for quite some time.
Finally, Kenneth was able to go back to school, and it inspired his mother to accomplish something in her life, as well. Patricia had worked in law enforcement for 25 years, so she decided that it was time for her to go to school to get a degree in criminal justice.
Patricia, who graduated from college at the age of 51, gives credit to her family for teaching her to have faith and to be resilient. “Two things my parents and grandparents instilled in me. God will never put you through more than you can handle and this too shall pass,” Patricia said in an interview with CBS Miami.
Patricia plans on taking a nice break to celebrate the fact that she’s been cancer free for 12 years! Kenneth, on the other hand, is planning on continuing his education by getting a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Together, they’ll be moving to Central Florida.
Luckily, these two had each other to keep life moving. “It’s been pretty hard these past few years but it’s been harder for her. I’m happy she’s with me and graduating with me,” explained Kenneth.
