Describe a family member.

She was a woman of faith, integrity, and character. Always has the sweetest smile and the biggest heart. She is the epitome of love and I have the privilege of calling her my grandmother.

My grandmother was a strong woman. She had endured a lot in her lifetime. I’ll never forget her stories about WWII and what they had to do to stay safe. She endured the pain of a mother losing her child, one was stillbirth, and her youngest who was at the prime of her life was cut short by an accident caused by a drunk driver.

Just four weeks before losing her youngest daughter in that tragic accident, she nearly lost my grandfather from a heart attack, which left him paralyzed. My grandmother was grieving the loss of her youngest daughter while also worrying about my grandfather’s condition. But despite all of these, she remained strong. I saw the sadness in her eyes and she cried every time she thought about my Aunt. But I also witnessed her incredible strength and resolve as she cared for my grandfather.

She broke down once during that time,  only once and after she had expressed her frustration at my grandfather for not fighting hard enough to regain his strength, she bounced back to her usual self. Seemingly unfazed.

That’s just one of the many things I admire about my grandmother. She was also a great cook and enjoyed making her specialties for her family,  especially for her grandchildren. She was a kind lady and always helped everyone in any way she could and that extends outside her family circle.

My grandmother is the epitome of unconditional love. Always concerned about everyone’s well-being. She always wanted what’s best for everyone. Her sweet smile radiates warmth and love. I miss her…so much and not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. There are so many things I wish I had the chance to do. Things I regret that I didn’t get to do for her. But there is one thing that she used to tell me that would make her happy and I intend to fulfill that.

Beyond grateful to have been raised by her and my grandfather. My grandmother was the backbone of our family. She was a beacon of light and the glue that held our family together. 💖