Mother's Day

My mother, Dawn, is a woman who gives love freely—but too often forgets to give that same love back to herself. For 37 years, she has been a hairstylist, blessing others through her gifted hands. But her work has never been limited to the salon. Her life’s greatest artistry has been in how she loves.

She has been the best mom—caring, present, and full of love for my brother and me, not just when we were children, but even now in our adult lives. She still shows up with wisdom, guidance, and that steady hand we can reach for when we need it. That kind of mothering doesn’t end, it evolves; and she continues to pour into us in ways that only a mother can.

While she was always a caregiver to us, she also became a caregiver to her own parents—twice, back-to-back—as they both battled dementia. My grandmother also suffered a stroke, adding another layer to the care that was needed. Watching my mother step into that role with strength and determination was nothing short of powerful. Though she had support from family, much of that responsibility rested on her shoulders as an only child. Her parents have since passed, but I know they left this world proud of the daughter who gave so much of herself to them.

That season took a toll on her body. She had to step away for months from the very work she loves after undergoing shoulder surgery. And in that moment, the caregiver became the one needing care. My father, my brother, and I surrounded her with the same love she has always given us, walking alongside her through recovery. Today, she is healed—and still standing.

Her story holds both beauty and ashes, yet she has never allowed life’s hardships to defeat her. She carries a quiet strength, a resilience that speaks louder than words. She is, without question, a conqueror.

I believe in giving people their flowers while they are here. My mother deserves to feel just how special she is—not only as a mother, but as a devoted wife, a proud Nona to her four grandchildren, and a daughter who honored her parents with unwavering love.

She is, and will always be, extraordinary.