The loss of a brother to cancer has taught Chris Sudduth many things; especially, about the fragility of life and how important it is not to waste a single minute of it.

Chris, a senior at Starr’s Mill High, wrote about his brother, the pain suffered from his loss and the valuable lessons learned from the experience in an essay competition for SuperSibs!, a nonprofit organization that supports, honors and recognizes brothers and sisters of children with cancer.

His powerful story caught the attention of the judges who awarded him one of four $5,000 SuperSibs! Manne Family Foundation scholarships given to graduating seniors nationwide. The scholarship recognizes those who took a devastating life experience and turned it into a positive, strength-building experience for themselves, as well as create good in the lives of others.

“Losing my brother Alex caused me so much pain but I came through it and am now a stronger person,” Chris says. “I have come to realize how important, precious and fragile life is and I’m propelled not to waste mine.”

His advice to other siblings going through this is, “Remember throughout all your troubles, including dealing with a sibling stricken with cancer, that someone or something else is in control of the universe.”

His brother Alex was diagnosed with leukemia when Chris was just seven years old. He was treated for three years before going into remission but died unexpectedly in 2001.

Although a very difficult time in his life, Chris explained, “My brother taught me one of the most valuable lessons in life, which is to accept situations and people as they are, without judging.” In his essay, Chris said “I am certain the knowledge my brother Alex imparted gave me a better understanding of the world and as a result I am able to live freely and succeed everyday.”

The judges felt Chris was deserving of the scholarship based on his attitude and eagerness to help others as a result of his experience. The organization refers to him as “truly remarkable” and a “tremendous role model for other siblings who follow in his footsteps.”

Chris will use his $5,000 scholarship at the University of Georgia where he will pursue a degree in biology/pre-med.