When my mom was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, I became the daughter desperately looking for answers. She died 44 days later, but what those days taught me continues to shape how I understand advocacy. Advocacy can be love put into action. It means asking questions, keeping records, seeking answers and speaking when the person you love is too tired, frightened or unwell to speak for themselves. Healthcare professionals may be knowledgeable and deeply compassionate, but families know the person, their history, personality and usual patterns. That perspective matters, and it belongs in every conversation.
