Thank you Auntie Mimay

08 December 2007 (her birthday few weeks after her cataract operation)

I thank God for giving you in my Family's life. Gemima Santos or Auntie Mimay as she was known was my Grandmother's bestfriend. They've been friends through out their lives until my grandmother died in 1996, she was there. She also been an OFW in the US until she decided to return back for good to the Philippines prior to the death of my grandmother.

I remember my childhood with lot's of good memories with her. Every time we fetch her at the airport I always have chocolates and gifts from her. She goes out more often with our family than hers niece and nephews (she's a single blessed woman). I left manila on 2006 December 8 to work here in Jeddah. I will never forget that day as it is also her birthday. October of last year, I called her at home coz I heard that she undergone operation for her cataract. She cried and told me that she misses me. She told me that she's becoming weak each days but still surviving and she wanted to see me before she die. I told her not to tell that as we still needs her and that I am coming home for Christmas.She said that she would wait for me. During her birthday 08December2007, I saw the light in her face when she saw me. I told her "Auntie Im here. Thank you for waiting for me." she began to cry and i gave her a hug and kiss and of course her favorite Keso de Bola.

09 January 2008, I need to report back to work. But day before my early morning flight, I bid my goodbye to her. She cried again over the phone telling me to take good care of my self as I am alone abroad Like a mother bidding goodbye to her son. That was the last time we talked. She told me that she will wait for me again on her next birthday but I think I am failing her as I don't have my booking this Christmas going home.

Last week, I had a chance chatting with my parents. They told me that she was rushed to the hospital due to mild stroke. She was staying with my Tita Auring (sister of my dad) as the usual situation when she is having her medication. I planned to call her but I always forget. This afternoon, my brother told me that she was rushed again to the hospital for another stroke and now under observation for a week. I hope she is ok.


Auntie, Thank you for sharing your life with us. Though we're not your real family, you become a real mother to my Papa and Tita Au. A real grandmother to me, my brothers and my cousins. I will never forget you in my entire life. You told me that you will wait for me again on my next vacation. It's ok to let go. I do understand the situation and I don't want you to be in pain. A portion of my heart was already occupied by you. I will always remember you as the young, energetic, playful and cheerful Mimay during my childhood. I miss your laughter, I miss your advises, and I will always miss the light in your face every time we talk.

Lord, I commend to you her spirit as she is now travelling to be with you. You know that we still need her here. But it is your will be done and not ours. Please end her sufferings and pain in your own time. I still want to see her smile but if it is already her time. Guide her to you Kingdom...

Amen...