A Big Thank You

“Thank You” to Amanda and Natalie, who were both terrific nannies to our little guy, Adam. Next week, please join me in giving an extra-special thank you to the men and women that look after those we love most—our caregivers.

In May 2007, my bother-in-law died in a car accident by a hit and run drunk driver. My sister was pregnant and had a five, a four, and a two-year-old. From telling the children the horrific news to acting as both parents every day, she has shown to be a hero in my eyes. She gave birth [to a fourth child] in September, caring for her baby multiple times during the night while the other three kids woke with nightmares. She amazes me every day with her patience and ability to multitask with little sleep and NO time for herself. She drives to and from school, nap time, potty training, breakfast-lunch-dinner, bath time, Bible stories, prayer, and memories of Dad—all before bed. Her children are her life and every decision made is in their best interest. The kids will be very proud of her courage and achievements someday. 

– Jody T., nominating her sister, Brenda.

I nominate my mother the most incredible mother, grandmother, wife, and friend! 

My mom Mary O. is the mother of 10 children, has helped care for 16 grandchildren, and, for the past 10 years, has given up her life to take care of my grand aunt and uncle. Mary added an addition in the back or her house in 1997 so that, instead of going to a nursing home, my aunt and uncle would be cared for by loving family members. Not long after they moved into their new home, my uncle John started getting sick and could no longer be left alone. My mom was there to take care of him day in and day out. He died 3 years ago in February, and left a very sad wife behind, who for the past seven months has been very sick with pancreatic cancer and just recently died on April 15. My mother stayed up with her many nights helping her, talking to her, and most of all loving her. She was 98 and lived a long live, but now my mother deserves to finally live her life and be commended for the love and kindness she has shared to my aunt and uncle and for everyone she knows! She is always there to help with anything. I hope you will see the love in her eyes and choose her to be a Care Hero!

– Christine D., nominating her mother, Mary O.