Maria was getting ready to go see her mom for Mother's Day. I was having a particularly hard moment, once again, just in the realization of what I was about to go through as far as surgery and recovery. Maria left me with one of those defining moments in my life that I will never forget. She gave me a hug and comforted me with words that gave my heart hope. I am a "hugger" and that particular hug had more power, hope, and healing in it than anything in this world. Once again, a defining moment in my life that I will never forget, and yet, I may never see Maria for the rest of my life to say "thank you".