Family Matters

 Behind every movement, there’s a story, and behind my story, there’s my mother. She is, without a doubt, my hero. Her strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to others have shaped not only who I am but also the foundation of Why Not Me?  My mother is more than just a parent—she’s a lifesaver. Officially she adopted four of us, but over the years, she's opened her heart and home to countless others, providing the love and care they might not have found elsewhere. Some stayed for days, some for years, but she treated every single one of them like family.

 Some of us attended regular schools, others required special schools, but no matter our circumstances, she made sure we felt supported, cared for, and loved.  Her ability to balance it all—helping us with homework, preparing meals, and making sure each of us felt seen and valued—was nothing short of amazing. My sister Vicky, still attends Eden II, a school for children and adults with special needs, is just one example of how my mom has gone above and beyond to ensure every child she touches gets the care and opportunity they deserve.  She didn’t just give us a place to live; she gave us a family. 

She brought us together and made our house a home. Her example of selflessness, resilience, and unconditional love is what drives me to fight for others, to lift up those who feel unseen, and to create a world where everyone has the chance to belong and succeed.  My mother taught me that true leadership starts with service. It’s about creating a space where people can thrive and feel valued. It’s about turning challenges into opportunities and never giving up on those who need a helping hand.  She is the heart behind so much of what I stand for and a constant reminder that one person’s actions can change countless lives. For that, I’m endlessly grateful. 

 When my stepfather came into my life at 15, I was already a teenager, set in my ways and feeling like I had everything figured out. Having a man I didn’t know suddenly move into our home and try to fill a role that had been left vacant wasn’t easy for me—or for him. But he never gave up.  While most people might have walked away from the challenges of raising six teenagers, one with special needs, he stayed. He didn’t just step into the chaos—he embraced it. He took on the responsibility of treating us like his own, not just in words but in action. And even when I pushed back, he remained patient and committed.  

Looking back now, 25 years later, I see how much he’s shaped me. He taught me the value of hard work—not through lectures, but by example. Whether he was fixing something around the house, working long hours, or showing up for our family, he demonstrated what it means to provide, to persevere, and to lead.  One of the most important lessons he’s taught me is that you don’t have to be perfect to make a difference. He’s not perfect—none of us are—but he’s always been good to my mother, to me, and to my siblings. Despite the challenges and the flaws that come with being human, he has always prioritized his role as a husband and a father. Even when it wasn’t easy, he stayed. Even when I wasn’t ready to accept him, he stayed. 

My stepfather didn’t have to step into our lives, but he chose to. He chose to take on the challenges, the responsibilities, and the joys that come with being a father figure. And for that, he will always have my gratitude and respect.  He has been more than a father figure—he’s been a role model for how to show up for the people you care about, even when it’s not easy. His impact on my life is something I carry with me every day, and it’s a testament to the power of persistence, kindness, and love.