THE POWER OF LOVE...

Yesterday was Wednesday, April 9th -- a day I'll never forget. I lost another Mother. However, this one wasn't biological -- she was chosen. Actually, we chose each other. Mary Ida Vandross and I first met on a beautiful fall morning in 2004 as we prepared for a JDRF walk in honor of Luther. We were instantly smitten with each other and began a relationship that developed into much more than I think either one of us expected. We worked together in support of Luther and when he left us we supported one another.

We shared national podiums empowering people across the country about diabetes and stroke. She even joined us on the SOH National Prayer Line, leading us in fervent prayer for those in need. We laughed together, cried together and created an extended family. Last Mother's Day she officially pledged her love in a beautiful ceremony accepting my daughter, Valerie, and myself as her god-children along with our brother, Robert Martin.

Although her struggles are over and I know she's right where God wants her to be, I miss her now and know that I'll miss her even more in the days to come. Love doesn't die...ITS POWER JUST LIVES ON AND ON...