And Still... [A Mom Story]
The earliest stories of her name refer to Deborah- sole
female judge of Israel. A legacy of peace. Her song speaks of victory and
friendship. Unmistakably my mother. Undefeated.
[ Judges 5:31: ] "'So perish all your enemies, O Lord ! But may your
friends be like the sun as it rises in its might.' And the land had rest
forty years."
Today she is 69. Wiser than ever. Her tale is filled with thought and
compassion for others. Beginning as a lighthouse to her sisters. Leaving home
to become a nurse. Quickly evolving to teach the next generation of nurses and
lead a revolution of changes nationwide.
What began in Burke County quickly spread to a city near you… My mother has
earned a fascinating reputation from developing a department she took over
during infancy. Always remembering the legacy of those before her and fighting
for their acknowledgement.
Eventually she conquered the local challenges and expanded her masterplan.
Logging hundreds of thousands of miles consulting across country. Helping drive
change and create jobs that affect the quality of care throughout largest
cities in the United States.
There’s no coincidence that she’s mother to a couple of schoolteachers, a
nurse, photographer, engineer, wrestler, programmer, naval director, airplane
mechanic, and an author. We appreciate her energy each visit, while praying for
a safe return that’s never too soon. It’s a pleasure to share my mother with
others… Her soul is fueled by reciprocity.
She’s overseen the dynamic advancement of more than two dozen medical
facilities. Influence that stretches across the globe. World-Class facilities taking
in patients from every country. A big step-up from the contributions she made
with Wake Forest to help shape their expansion throughout the Southeastern US.
Mom not only took me to work, but we visited her often. The team knew her
family and she knew theirs. Everyone had responsibilities to each other and a
voice of their own. A true community within the workplace that was focused on progress
and the well-being of the entire family.
Doesn’t she have some bad qualities too? Maybe- driving solo to procedures but
telling folks she wasn’t going alone. She’s earned the right to face any
circumstances her way.
For the woman who refuses to be defeated in her battles with cancer, strokes, and
continues to care for others through her most difficult circumstances – WE LOVE
YOU.
