About six months ago, Rosie Ducler was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
Doctors didn't expect Rosie to make it to her 18th birthday or this day - her graduation - but now she is proving them wrong.
Rosie Ducler and her twin sister, Suzanne, have spent the past few days reminiscing.
The last six months have been filled with hospital stays, holidays wearing protective masks and many ups and downs.
"At first I didn't know if I was going to graduate because of my diagnosis and I was so doom and gloom you know, now that the day is here I'm so excited," Ducler said.
Late last year, Rosie went from the outgoing and outspoken drama student, to just trying to make it through the day.
The disease stripped her of her strength, but never took her fighting spirit.
"I'm like proof that someone is going to tell you you are going to die and I'm hear to say no, you're not if you have the right mindset. You could achieve anything," Ducler said.
Suzanne has been Rosie's biggest inspiration, by her side the entire time.
Late nights when Rosie can't sleep, her sister entertains her. Or they watch movies or play X-box.
When Rosie's hair started falling out from the chemotheraphy, Suzanne was right there to shave it.
"Before this, Rosie always helped me have a good attitude about things because I didn't have a very good attitude and when this happened we kind of switched spots for a second and I needed to be her best cheerleader and help her stay positive," Ducler said.
The Clovis West senior class dedicated their last rally to Rosie. It was the first time she was able to go back to school since her devastating diagnosis.
Rosie never pictured her senior year to be like this, but still she is counting her blessings.
"Never thought I would have cancer, never thought anything you know. Teenagers you know teenagers- they live in the moment, they do crazy things, they live in the moment," Ducler said.
The girls have their caps and gowns ready for the big moment. Rosie assumes it will be emotional, for so many reasons.
Rosie is planning to walk at least a portion of the procession alongside Suzanne. Graduation begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday.
