Shannen Doherty, the beloved “Beverly Hills, 90210” star, has been battling stage 4 breast cancer since February 2020. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Shannen opens up about the challenges she faced after undergoing brain surgery earlier this year. Her incredible strength and determination are truly inspiring.

After the surgery, Shannen struggled with her motor skills. For three to four months, she couldn’t even hold a glass or a fork due to the side effects of the medication she was taking to reduce brain swelling. But Shannen refused to give up. She tirelessly worked on regaining her motor skills, never allowing herself to be discouraged. Her determination paid off, as she gradually started to improve.

Shannen’s resilience is deeply rooted in her upbringing and the strong example set by her mother, Rosa. Rosa, a fiery redhead from the South, ran a beauty salon and battled a brain aneurysm when Shannen was just eight years old. Given a 10% chance of survival, Rosa defied all odds and worked tirelessly to regain her strength. Her unwavering determination left a lasting impression on Shannen.

Growing up in Los Angeles with her father and older brother, Shannen was raised to be a fighter. Her childhood taught her the value of strength and perseverance. She learned that with hard work and determination, she could overcome any obstacle that came her way.

Despite the hardships she has faced, Shannen remains hopeful. She believes that advancements in medical treatments will continue to emerge in the next few years. With each passing day, she gets closer to new protocols and clinical trials that may offer a breakthrough.

Surrounded by a loving support system, Shannen takes into consideration the impact her decisions have on her family and loved ones. Her mother, brother, and furry friends are a constant source of strength and motivation for her. Their love and presence give her the courage she needs to keep fighting.

As Shannen confronts her mortality, she faces it with grace and acceptance. She knows that she has led a good life and has made a positive impact on those around her. While she may not fear death, she has an unwavering desire to keep living, cherishing every moment she has with her loved ones.

Shannen Doherty’s journey is a testament to the human spirit and the power of resilience. Her determination to never give up serves as an inspiration to us all. Shannen’s story is a reminder that no matter what life throws at us, we have the strength within ourselves to keep pushing forward.