Word on the Street: The Mother's Day Edition

Antionettea Etienne

New York, N.Y.; Diagnosed in 1997; Two daughters, two grandsons

One of the greatest joys of being a mom was to see my children grow up without ill health, incarceration or domestic violence and drugs issues. Considering that I have sold and used drugs, was incarcerated for a number of years, dealt with HIV and cancer and have two beautiful daughters and two wonderful and handsome grandsons, I feel so blessed. I have received so much support, love, respect and understanding from them that at times, I want to dance in Macy's front window, my crown of locks flowing back and forth with happiness. There are tears of joy within my heart and down my face. They understand my need to travel all over the world educating as many people as cross my path. They lift me up in prayer when I am not feeling well. Am I blessed or not? They make me proud each and every day to be their mom.