I honored my mom and family with a meaningful piece of permanent art that reflects love, memory, and my personal growth.

I learned to love reading because of my mom’s patience, guidance, and belief in me, even when English felt impossible as a Deaf child. Through her support, I went from struggling with simple books to excelling in advanced English classes and discovering a lifelong passion for reading. Her encouragement not only taught me to read but also inspired me to share that love of reading with my own students.

One year later, I am still learning how to live in a world without my mom, but I am also learning how strong she helped me become. This year has stretched me through new beginnings, hard lessons, and quiet growth, and somehow I am still standing. I miss her every day, but I carry her love with me in everything I do.

I remember the night my mom frantically tried to get our escaped cats back, especially Rex, using treats and clever tricks, and I couldn’t stop laughing from my dorm in Los Angeles. On my first Mother’s Day without her, I felt the ache of missing our daily conversations, laughter, and even arguments, even as I found warmth in memories. That crazy night with Rex reminded me of her love and devotion, and I still think of her every single day.

Four months into teaching Deaf Education, I am exhausted but deeply fulfilled, learning daily while balancing graduate school and navigating imposter syndrome. Grieving my mom while stepping into this new season of life has been one of the hardest challenges, yet I can see my growth and feel her pride guiding me forward. Though grief still comes in waves, I am learning to carry it with patience, trusting that over time the pain will soften into warm memories and gratitude.

During Spring Break in the Bay, my brother took me to the Marin Headlands where we explored a historic military site and watched a breathtaking sunset that reminded me deeply of my mom.

I got hired for a job I almost walked away from because of self-doubt and anxiety. After my mom passed, I remembered her encouragement and found the courage to try again… and I got it. I’m excited and grateful, but I deeply miss her and hope I’m making her proud as I step into this new chapter.

I attended a small memorial for my mom at her hospital, reflecting on her impact as a nurse, the love she gave her family, and the stories her colleagues shared in her honor.

One week after my mom’s death, my brother and I revisited childhood memories around Farmington, reflecting on her love, sacrifices, and the bond we share while navigating grief.

While sorting through my things after Mom’s passing, I found a little wallet she gave me years ago and realized it’s now a cherished reminder of her love and guidance.

I unexpectedly lost my mom and am sharing how I’ve faced the shock, grief, and guilt while learning to carry her love and lessons forward.