I was about six years old when I ran home in tears from the strip mall after being teased for some unknown reason by some older teenagers. I think they may have taken my candy.

I remember 26 year old mum taking me by the hand and storming back to the strip mall where she proceeded to confront said teenagers…most of whom were bigger than she was. Mum was ferocious. She laced into them regardless of whether they were involved or not…I believe that if she had to she would have physically fought every one of them. I could tell they were afraid of her….backing up when she turned her anger on one of them. I was a little frightened too…such is the power of an angry mother.

Well eventually the whole group left and mum bought me candy and I went home in awe of this woman warrior. That is my mum. That is still her to this day. Sacrificial mum who would take on the world to protect her children. Sacrificial mum who would give up everything and more to ensure we had a home and were loved. She taught me to respect and stand in awe of the beautiful strength of women. My mum is my hero and the foundation of my life. A day is not enough for her – she deserves a lifetime.