Mary Beth Brault was diagnosed with blood cancer and advised to seek care from Dr. Maher at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center in Richmond, VA. After undergoing a stem cell transplant with stem cells donated by her son, Colin, and surviving leukemia (ALL), she now sees Mother’s Day in a deeply changed way.

She reflects that her diagnosis made her fear missing major life moments like her children’s weddings and future grandchildren — but thanks to her son, her doctor, and her husband’s support, she has been given that future back.

For her, motherhood now carries an even deeper meaning: while mothers bring children into the world, she feels she was “set free” by her son through his life-saving donation. Mother’s Day, for her, is now a powerful reminder of survival, gratitude, and the extraordinary bond between mother and child.

A mother’s love never rests.  It show’s up every day as this poem conveys. 

Mom’s Every Day Devotion 

You carry love, 
in every direction.

No clock-out time.
No off switch.
Just love on repeat.

Not just Moms by birth, but by love,
by care,
by showing up.

Some raise babies,
some raise best friends with paws,
some are still waiting, 

All of it is love.
It’s love that shows up every day.

It’s not always pretty.
It’s not always easy.

But it’s real.
Quietly powerful.
Beautifully consistent.

That’s motherhood.

Forever grateful.