Dear F,

On the day before your fourteenth birthday, I watched you leap into action to protect a teammate and a friend. It’s exactly the type of thing I’ve always known you to do. You’re the guy who everyone knows will have their back. You always have been.

It feels impossible that fourteen years have passed. We’re both unrecognisable now compared to who we were on January 14, 2010. I sometimes think that we’d be unable to pinpoint who we are now in a photo if someone showed me then. I definitely could never have foreseen where life would take us and who we would become.

Fourteen years ago, I was so afraid. Afraid I couldn’t do it. Afraid I’d let you down. But, you made me brave and you continue to make me brave because you make it look so easy.

Every day, I’m in awe of you. How brave you are. How unapologetically YOU you are. How kind and thoughtful, polite, and genuine you are.

You are a fiercely loyal friend and teammate.

You are your baby brothers’ hero. S can hardly contain himself when he sees you in your hockey gear. When you wave to him, I can see his love beaming through to you.

Fourteen years ago, you made me a mom.

You taught me what love is.

You’re the first boy I ever loved.

I can’t wait to see what this year has in store for you.

I’m so proud of you and so honoured to be your mom. Keep being you, Soupie, and you’ll be just fine.

Love,
mom.