For the past 17 years of my life I have grown up in two different households. My father lives in Hawaii Kai and my mom lives in Haleiwa. When I am with my mom, I am the only child. At my dads I am the eldest. There have always been bittersweet feelings about growing up in different families. However, the most important people in my life are my family and my friends. They have become my support system and my biggest fans. Everyone knows that life isn't always "rainbows and unicorns." For me most of the time it is rainy and cloudy. There was even a time, where I struggled to find the purpose in living. Everything that could go wrong, did. I wasn't able to find the words to share the feelings building up inside of me. At that point, I spiraled. I was afraid that I may not make it out alive. Today I am forever grateful for the love and support I received from my family and friends. I am here because of them.