One of my most cherished memories of my mom, Promila, was our evening walks around the neighborhood. After homework was finished and dinner was out of the way, she’d put on her walking shoes, and I’d grab my bike or razor scooter out of the garage. We’d often fall into these long, wandering conversations about school, my goals and dreams, the advice she insisted on giving, politics, religion, life, her memories, and every so often, a bit of silly gossip that would make us both laugh.

The reason this memory stands out so vividly is because these walks were where she could fully be herself with me. They were a break from our daily worries… a time to pause, reflect, and connect.

My mom had a heart of gold and loved helping others, but she struggled with mental health and substance use. Growing up, this strained our relationship. When she committed to a journey of recovery, we began to communicate honestly, focus on what mattered, and heal... one day at a time.

About two months before she passed away on February 17th, 2016, we had the opportunity to walk together again. This time, the conversation centered on her recovery homework, her goals, her dreams, and the advice I insisted on giving. Despite the heavy topics, smiles crept in whenever she turned a new Top 40 hit into a life lesson, and the laughs came easy whenever I gave her some sass or the kind of dramatic eye-roll I’d learned from the master herself.

Walk With Promila and honor her memory by sharing your photos and memories, and by joining us in a walk of remembrance on Tuesday, February 17th. Step outside or take a moment away from your desk to remember Promila and be sure to capture a photo wearing something red, her favorite color, along your walk and share it here:

Promila cared deeply about empowering women, supporting families, and keeping families together. Your participation helps carry her legacy forward, and we hope you will consider a gift to support Nexus Family Recovery Center, a nonprofit substance use disorder treatment facility committed to providing mothers with comprehensive, evidence‑based services at no cost so they can rebuild their lives and heal alongside their children, regardless of financial circumstances.

Through this fundraiser, I want to help mothers who are fighting to lead healthy, productive, and rewarding lives, not just for themselves, but for their children, too. I want children to have the opportunity to see their mothers as strong, independent, and loving individuals. I know my mom will be walking with us in spirit.