IN HONOR OF MY MOM: MARIA DELGADO-PONCE

Alicia and her Mother

I love my mother very much, and even though she has passed on, her spirit still lives in her children. I remember while growing up seeing my Mom happy, sad, and peaceful. She loved her kids, all 13 of us, and did the best she could. My mother didn't speak much English, because she and my father emigrated from Mexico. To learn English, she used to read the dictionary and watch English TV programs. She especially loved watching Carol Burnett, I Love Lucy, and the Lawrence Welk Show.

My mother was an amazing, gentle soul who wanted the best for her children. We grew up in the projects in East Chicago, Indiana, a city just a bit southeast of Chicago. Even though she didn't have a high school education, she encouraged us to do well. I'm so proud of my Mom and her commitment to us, because each of us is now living a healthy, good life.

I love my Mom and miss her, but I know her spirit lives in my heart always and forever! :)