Time for a more Meaningful Mother's Day

I've heard the complaints. Mother's day has become one of those holidays-turned-minefield of conflicting emotions and expectations. I've heard the debates over who does the honoring (children or husbands), how to honor (homemade or store-bought) and even when (for some, mother's day doesn't begin until the breakfast-in-bed arrives.)

Some families reunite and celebrate, others bypass the day completely declaring it too commercialized. Whatever your thoughts are about the day, or your opinions of motherhood and how we honor mothers, consider this invitation for a more meaningful Mother's Day.

Join with me on behalf of Arizona American Mothers by giving care packages to a special group of moms. Right now there are dozens and dozens of children who are in our Phoenix area hospitals for extended stays due to illness or procedures--some for lengthy efforts to be diagnosed, others to receive treatments, and some hoping their life will be preserved. And next to that baby or child in the hospital bed, most often, is a courageous (and worried and tired) mom.

She is usually the first to advocate for her child, but maybe the last to ask for anything for herself.
If it sounds like I'm speaking from experience, some of you may know I spent some time in the hospital with our first child. Pardon the big hair, but here are before and after snapshots.(I haven't shared these pictures publicly before now.)

June 1994, Primary Children's MC, Waiting for transplant

July 1994, UCSF, 5 days after transplant

Intense days punctuated by long nights were the norm during that time. We were in cities without many (sometimes any) family or friends. A simple call or card meant so much. I'm sure this is why I have a soft place in my heart for families that are enduring this kind of challenge.

I'd love to have your help bringing these moms and their families a little comfort and cheer. No donation is too small (or too big ;) 

Care Packages for Care Givers

Mother's Day 2013

To Donate please email me at 

pass5tlp@gmail.com
or
Use PayPal and email address:
ArizonaAMI@gmail.com
Put "care packages" in the comments

·        Care packages will be delivered to the mothers of currently hospitalized children at Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Cardon Children’s MC.

·        100% of donations used for the care packages.

Needed Items:

Gift Bags 

Blank note Cards

Candy Bars –no nuts

Gas Cards ($10)

Restaurant Cards ($10)

Grocery Cards ($10)

Lotion, hand sanitizer 

Mints

Small journals 

Here's to a more meaningful Mother's Day.

Thank you for your support.

Written and posted by Tamara Passey, AZ Young Mother of the Year, 2013