Shero's

Hero: "noun, a person who, in the opinion of others, has special achievements, abilities, or personal qualities and is regarded as a role model or ideal". Yup, Angela is a hero. All the above attributes pertain, plus some.

Angela endured pain I have never been witness to. Between convulsing seizures; biting down until her cheeks, tongue and gums bled; withstanding fracturing of her frail bones as her muscles contorted beyond her human figure; enduring over 19 hours on a hospital gurney under a frigid air conditioning vent, muscles contracting; the feeling of every bone in the body breaking apart as the steroids struggle to calm a disease while paradoxically destroying her ability to walk... Yes, Angela is a hero.

Angela, her Divine Being, always shines through regardless of how dark the moment may be. She looked beyond the callousness of some medical staff who were numb to her pain.She acknowledged each of them directly for their hard work....and the angel within each with whom she spoke.

Actually, Angela is a step up from a hero, she's a 'Shero'. A mighty woman; nurturer, one who embraces life with compassion, hope. A warrior for those who can not fend for themselves, one who feeds the hearts and bellies of the hungry. She's a soul soother, one who fully forgives and gives fully.

As I continue to learn more from my wife then I have ever before I become more aware of other Shero's whom walk among us. Hota, Angela's sister, has been instrumental in providing strength when I needed it, control when I was out of it and a holding me up with a tearful embrace when I felt I could only fall to my knees. Hota has been a mother to Angela, a rock for me to hold on to.

Constance, a true dear friend for many years, provided support when much was needed. Her mothering gifts embraced all of us as we helplessly watched Angela in her most pain filled and profound moments; between the most sacred and the surreal extremes coexisting between life and death.

And Mary, the quiet, steady nurturer. Always reading between the lines insuring nothing is forgotten or missed. She provided food and sustenance for our body and souls through her willingness to be fully present for whatever transpired.

Yes, Shero's are real as are the angel's who work through them. Without the Shero the hero's of the world would not exist. I say to each of you, thank you.