Beautiful Mother's Day to you all

Also to my wonderful mom – the one and only human being, who has never given up on me. Actually, ever since I was born a bit too early. The doctor told her, "Don't expect she´ll survive." Luckily, there was another doctor, who gave her hope and reminded her that, "She's a strong girl, she can make it."

They also had told her many times that I wouldn´t be capable of any learrning and education . She did not give up on me again and managed to integrate me, I think successfully, among my able-bodied classmates. Both primary and secondary school long before the word inclusion has become almost a vulgar word for some.

A big test for her came when I had to undergo three surgeries in a row as a kid. I was admitted to the hospital in September and discharged a few days before Christmas. My mom was there… looking after me all day all night. How many times she had slept in that uncomfortable chair next to my bed. Even when I screamed and begged her, "Mom, please, let me die, I don't want any more pain," even at this moment, she did not give up on me.

Later, when the dark days passed by, my mother made up her mind that she would never let me suffer like that again. Since then she has been trying to fill my cup of life with meaningful and unique experiences instead of this cup being full of bitterness and sadness.

One such experience is our first trip to the US. Jeez, it's been almost 20 years. It's unbelievable how many great people we had met during our stay and my studies. We will never forget Mrs. Doris, who taught me English patiently and with love. She opened the door to the world for me. I must not forget our dear Betty and also Pat and Jakub, who welcomed us to their homes as a family and we still know each other today.

Our American odyssey, which we had accomplished successfully, gave my mother the courage to explore the rest world with me. Beautiful and exotic Thailand, Australia, India, South Africa, Brazil, Ireland, France, Belgium to name a few.

However, one trip stands out - the Way of St. James in Spain. After reading Paulo Coelho's book, The Pilgrimage, she knew she had to do it. Fortunately, she took me along. She pushed me in a wheelchair for incredible 300 km of the Camino… from the city of Leon to Santiago de Compostela. If you want to experience great unity of people from around the world and kindness coming from the heart, for which they are not ashamed of… walk the Camino.  The lyrics of Lennon´s Imagine comes to my mind.

God Bless Mom, who never gives up. Love you.