Connect What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

Right now, this question is incredibly hard. I lost my 17-year-old daughter, Sasha, to gun violence in April 2024, and my world changed forever. The most rewarding part of being a mom is choosing to keep loving through unimaginable pain—showing up for my other children, guiding them with strength, and turning my grief into purpose by helping other teens find hope, light, and a future, in her honor.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Motherhood has taught me that love never ends—it transforms. Even through the loss of my daughter, Sasha, I’ve learned that being a mom means continuing to show up, to nurture, and to guide with intention. It’s taught me to cherish every moment, lead with compassion, and turn heartbreak into something that can help others heal, love deeper, and choose a path of hope and purpose.

What would you do with $20,000?

With $20,000, I would dedicate half to our Long Live Sasha Scholarship, helping at-risk teens and young adults find opportunity, purpose, and a path forward through education, mentorship, and support. The other half would help support my family as we navigate deep grief and healing after the loss of my daughter, giving me the strength and stability to continue showing up for my children while honoring her legacy through meaningful impact.