Jill Zarin Has Learned to "Cherish the Moment" with Husband Bobby Zarin Amid His Cancer Battle

Jill Zarin celebrated her 54th birthday on Thursday, and this year, she's especially grateful to have her family by her side, particularly her husband Bobby Zarin. 

The Real Housewives of New York City alum's friends marked the special occasion with a gorgeous cake decked out in flowers, butterflies, and even pearls. She shared a photo of this mouthwatering dessert on Instagram Thursday, along with a touching message thanking her loved ones. "Thank you to my girlfriends who made me go out to lunch the other day and surprised me with this beautiful cake," Jill gushed. "Thank you to my daughter Ally for the beautiful post this morning. You know how to make a mama cry." 

But what was really important for Jill this birthday was that she got to spend it with Bobby, who has been battling anaplastic thyroid cancer. "I am most grateful to God who continues to give Bobby and me more time together. When Bobby always said to me 'cherish the moment' I never knew the power of that message until now. We continue the fight against Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer everyday and to astound his doctors with the strength and determination to defy all odds," she shared on Instagram. "Thank you to everyone for the texts, posts and messages. I read them all and they give me the strength to continue to fight everyday." 

Bobby was first diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2009. The cancer then spread to his lungs in 2013. Jill confirmed to PEOPLE in November 2016 that Bobby had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Bobby was hospitalized in July due to complications from his battle with cancer.

Jill's daughter, Ally Shapiro, sent her mom the warmest birthday wishes and praised her and Bobby's strength during this difficult time in a post on Instagram Thursday. "Happy Birthday to the strongest, most generous, and kindest person I️ know. Not only do you manage to be there and help your family and friends, but complete strangers as well. I wish you could see how many people are rooting for you and Bobby right now, and how many people are giving you both a giant hug full of love and kindness," Ally shared. "Your love radiates and isn’t just seen and heard, but felt. There is an energy you give off, and that karma isn’t going anywhere. I️ hope this year is full of love and laughter, and especially more adventures. Squeezing your hand three times right now from London. Happy Birthday @mrsjillzarin."

See more of Jill with her good friend Luann de Lesseps, below.