On Mother's Day today I am reminded of all the amazing mothers around me, including my own. A mother's love is selfless and really hard to compare to anything else in this world.
Throughout my life my Mom has been an inspiration to me and to those around her. Her life hasn't always been easy, she has endured things that many couldn't imagine but has shown amazing strength through the ups and downs. I know I don't say thank you enough for what she has done for me and my family. So here it is in writing: Thank You Mom!
When I was 18 months old, my mom and I were hit by a drunk driver. In instant our lives, and the lives of our family, were forever changed. I suffered a fractured skull and a few broken fingers, which pales in comparison to what my mom endured. She broke both legs, both arms, cracked ribs, suffered a head injury, a number of internal injuries and lost most of her fingers waiting for the jaws of life. She was also expecting at the time and lost a baby girl. She was in a coma for 30 days, the hospital for 6 months and Wascana rehab for another 6 months. The man who hit us was sentenced 90 days in jail and was released 30 days later on good behavior. While he gave 30 days of his life, my mom gave all of hers. She had to re-learn how to talk, walk and countless other things we take for granted every day.
It is safe to say my Mom's journey has been far from easy, but despite her circumstances she has led a full life. Since the accident she had two more children and was always involved in our activities growing up. She got involved in the community to support the fight against drinking and driving. She owned and operated a family business for a number of years while raising three kids, a task I can't even begin to imagine! Despite some of her physical disabilities she has done some travelling, including Mexico, a cruise to Alaska, and now winters down in Arizona. She never let her circumstances define her life or who she is.
My Mom has shown me what it means to overcome what may seem to be impossible and live life to the fullest no matter what. She has been there for every step of my life whether I needed some advice, a shoulder to cry on, or a few extra dollars (much to my Dad's dismay 😉, right Dad?).
This weekend let's celebrate our Mom's and all they do for us, but let's not leave our celebrations of these amazing women to one weekend a year. Let's celebrate our Mom's every day. Tell them how much you love them and appreciate them, say Thank-you and good grief take more photos with them (as I prepared to post this I searched for photos with my Mom I realized I don't have that many)!
Thank you Mom. I love you. I hope one day I am half the women, mother, and friend that you are.
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