Having interned with the American Red Cross my direct supervisor was a former Vista and having talked about my past experiences with volunteer work and my desire to serve she suggested that I look into the AmeriCorps. The most recent event that has made me who I am today was the loss of my mother who in September 2007 was diagnosed with stage four lung and brain cancer. My mother was a very simple woman who enjoyed the simple things in life; a walk on the beach, spending time in her garden, and the smiles of her children.
My mother had worked at our local elementary school for twenty three years. She loved working with children and the amount of money she made was never and would never be the deal breaker. She loved seeing the children every day and seeing them grow through their years with her. When my mom was diagnosed and was out sick from work the children always asked where Mrs. Manchester was. All of the students made her get well cards which were delivered and hung up in her room to see. The one that touched my heart the most was from one student who had yet to meet her. The card read, “Get Better Soon. Hello I am Emily Ferreira I moved here in November. So you wouldn’t know me. I look forward to meeting you. I hope you get better soon. –Emily”
By reading all of these cards it showed me all of the lives my mother had affected in her 55 years even ones she had yet to meet. With losing her at the age of 55 and my brother at the age of 30 it has shown me more than ever that life is short and that I want to spend my life giving back and helping others.
XoXo
-Katy-
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