It was New Years Eve, 2010.

I was fragile, frightened and overwhelmed.

You were strong, vivacious, and optimistic.

You told me that this was the hard part, and assured me that once I got passed the information collection stage, I would be out of the eye of the storm.

You assured me that the chaos would eventually calm, and that the newness of it all would eventually quiet. The pricks, the pokes, the hours of continuous chemotherapy-  and the aftermath of it all-would eventually become routine.

This was my new normal.

As the months wore on, and I started to adjust to my new reality- you kept your promise. You continued to hold my hand, continued to navigate the system, and continued to protect me as I continued to head into battle.

You were my shield of protection during the fight of my life.

You were there when I was first hooked up-and you were there to celebrate when I was eventually set free.

You connected me with Ethan, you introduced me to your world, and you accepted me into the community that you had built with your own hands.

Jonny not only are you changing the face of cancer- but you are creating a safe place-a critical space-for those of us living in a new normal.

You are so deserving of this award.

May you continue to go from strength to strength.

To learn more about Jonny Imerman and Imerman Angels go to CNN Heroes.