Share a story about someone who had a positive impact on your life.

If there’s one person who has shaped me into who I am today, it’s my mother.

She is — and always has been — my definition of strength. Not the loud, forceful kind, but the quiet, enduring one. The kind that holds everything together even when it’s falling apart. Growing up, I listened to her stories — the joyful ones, the funny ones, but also the painful ones. She never hid the truth. She spoke about her struggles with honesty and grace. Life hasn’t always been kind to her, but she faced every season with resilience I still don’t fully understand.

She raised me with that same strength — the kind that says, “you’ll get through this,” even when things seem impossible.

“A mother’s strength is often invisible—until the moment you see her fighting for her life, and realize it’s that same strength that’s holding you together.”

Now, we’re facing one of the hardest moments of our lives.

My mom is in the hospital, fighting an illness we still don’t understand. And this time, I can’t do anything but wait and pray. It’s a helpless feeling, watching the strongest person you know become fragile. I would do anything to trade places with her, to carry some of the pain for her like she’s done for me a thousand times.

I still talk to her when I can, whispering all the things I should’ve said more often. Telling her how proud I am to be her child. How grateful I am for every sacrifice, every word of encouragement, every moment she stood by me when no one else did.

I don’t know what the coming days will bring. But I do know this — no matter what happens, my mother’s love, her strength, and her story will always be the foundation of who I am.

If you’re reading this, please take a moment to tell your mom how much she means to you. Hug her if you can. Call her if you’re able. And if you have space in your heart, say a little prayer for mine.

She’s always been my hero. Now, more than ever, I hope she knows it.