This Mother’s Day, I felt a strong pull to do something different—something rooted in love and giving, and in memory of someone I miss deeply: my mom.
I packed up essentials like toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, Kleenex, and pet food—simple things that can be a lifeline when you’re going through a hard time.
Lend A Hand helped my family in ways I’ll never forget. When I was away at college, and my mom started having health issues—before we even knew it was cancer—they gave her rides to and from doctor appointments when I couldn’t be there. And later, when the diagnosis came and everything shifted, they provided her with a wheelchair, no questions asked, completely free. That gift was a godsend. It gave her freedom, mobility, and dignity at a time when everything else felt out of our control.
That kind of help stays with you.
So when I saw that Lend A Hand was collecting donations for Emergency Aid, I didn’t hesitate. I also included pet food—because I know what it’s like to feel stretched thin, and how heartbreaking it can be to worry about feeding your animals. Pets offer comfort, joy, and stability when things feel uncertain. They helped me, and I wanted to pay that feeling forward to someone else.
This little donation wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t expensive. But it was full of heart. And it was for my mom. She was someone who always looked out for others, even when no one was watching. I like to think she’d be proud of this small act in her name.
If you’ve been looking for a way to give back—this is your sign. Lend A Hand of Boulder City and Emergency Aid are both doing incredible work every day for our neighbors. Whether it’s donating supplies, money, or your time—every little bit helps, and it really does matter.
This Mother’s Day, I’m reminded that grief and gratitude can live in the same breath. And I’m learning that one of the best ways to keep someone’s spirit alive is to carry on the kindness they gave so freely.