Undergraduate / 'my family is always there' What Matters to Me: Family - Stanford Supplement [4]

I spent hours trying to choose a topic - for those who have tried, you know this prompt is very difficult! Please criticize it, feel free to point out flaws, I know it's all out of love. This is the third short essay (~350 words) for the Stanford Supplement, and it was definitely the hardest essay for me. For all criticisms, be sure to keep in mind that I barely make the character cutoff.

What matters to you, and why?

There have been times in my life in which I have fallen or failed, times in which I had no friends to turn to, times in which I saw my dreams as unattainable. Throughout my trials and tribulations, my family has been there for me, even when I didn't reciprocate that support. My family is a unit in which I am free to dream, to talk, to be who I want to be. Without a doubt, family matters most to me.

I come from a family of fourteen children. There is hardly a quiet moment; I am never alone. I once complained about my family, but I have come to realize that family has been the most important part of my life. Without family, I would never dream or achieve as I do. They have always been there to encourage and inspire.

I first realized this importance when I was in 7th grade. Three years before, my older sister, Sarah, had been diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis, causing her skin to have a constant rash and her to gain much weight. This drew much teasing from peers, and Sarah came home crying many times. I never took action. In seventh grade, I realized that Sarah is part of my family, that foundation of love and encouragement. I was ashamed that I wasn't returning that love and support. I started to stand up for her. Many "friends" responded bitterly; I became a new target. I never regretted a single action I did or word I said in defense of my sister. Whenever I did something for Sarah, I never told her - I wasn't doing this because I wanted to show her I loved her; I was doing it simply because I did love her. I continued protecting my sister even after she conquered her disease. Through this reciprocation of love, I realized the critical role family holds.

My family unceasingly encourages me and provides for me physically and emotionally. There are no words I can ever use to express my appreciation for what they are and always will be to me. Whenever I need a shoulder to lean on, a helping hand, or a listening ear, my family is always there when no one else is.

Thanks in advance for your help!