HEROES: Year 7 Winner

Shasmeen wins for this wonderful and heartwarming letter to her heroic mother. All of us were so moved by your story, Shasmeen. Thank you for sharing!

A Letter of Appreciation Like most people, you see your mum as an idol, or maybe a hero, or perhaps someone to look up to. It’s your mother's commitment: all the times she was there for you, how she always cleaned your home so that it would be germ free, all the unconditional love she has always had for you. Regardless of whether they are stay at home mums or mums who juggle both the house and the work, mothers give all they've got. In these hard times, everyone is struggling. Most people are not financially secure. While we really appreciate the NHS and all the other keyworkers, the one keyworker we always seem to forget is our mother, the one who is always working: the cleaner, the chef, the teacher, the carer. The one who is always there for you in times of need. My name is Shasmeen and I am 11 years old. My family and I have always stayed strong in everything we have been through. But the person who has always been the strongest, not only for herself, but for her children, too, is my mother. My mum is a single mother. She is not from this country. She has no family support. Her bravery started when she gave birth to me and my little brother; when she got divorced, shortly after having my brother; when all she could afford was a tiny one-bed apartment for the three of us; when we were homeless and lived in a bed and breakfast far from my school; and even, more recently, when she went to hospital for surgery in the middle of lockdown, not having anyone around to help. She still took care of us even though her body was weak. The most challenging thing about being a mother is not about the sacrifices you make, or the dreams you lay to one side, or all the other lost desires. The challenge is working really hard and not being noticed or appreciated for what you do. I’d like everyone who is reading this, whether you are a child like me or a grown adult, I want you to let your mum know how much you appreciate her. And if any mothers are reading this, and you understand the struggle I write about, I want you to know you are very appreciated for what you do. And mum, if you see this, I love you so much. Thank you for being strong. You are my heroine. Kind regards,

Shasmeen

7 Seacole