Blessed and Grateful to Be Camila’s Mother
Becoming a mom was one of my most amazing experiences. Being a mom is one of the most rewarding adventures. I thank God every day for giving me the wonderful gift of being a mother to a beautiful, precious little soul I call my daughter, Camila.
Our journey, thus far, has not been an easy one but I would not trade it for the world. There are good days and bad days when managing a home with a little one. In September of 2018, I was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer. Camila was only eight months old. My world came crushing down but I knew I had to remain strong for my daughter and my family. The next couple of years were definitely trying times for me. It was heart breaking not being able to do the things that new moms normally do with their young ones. Then, amidst it all, COVID hit. One day at a time, by the grace of God, He will guide me through this.
One day, I came across a post from Mom & Caregiver magazine. It was the 16th annual Mom & Caregiver Captured Moments photo contest. At first, I hesitated, as I was still undergoing treatment and not feeling well, but my faith in God gave me the strength to enter. Well, I was happy that I did. The love and support that I received as the voting opened from family, friends and my Dorchester community was overwhelming. Next thing I knew, she was one of the fourteen selected to be on the cover.
Her photo shoot took place in December 2020, and she was recently featured on the March 2022 cover “Wishing For a Rainbow”. I am grateful to be able to share this wonderful experience with my daughter and family. I recall leaving the photoshoot and my daughter wanting to celebrate with pizza and cake…her favourite two things.
I wanted to do something special for my daughter – something she will look back on from her childhood years. I am so grateful to Mom & Caregiver who has provided us this amazing gift. God has walked and continues to walk alongside my journey and I am so blessed and grateful to Him for allowing me to be Camila’s mother, and to be able to experience all of this with her.
Paula Baldinelli
