Thank you Alaka Maam...

 Words cannot explain my love and gratitude I have for Alaka Maam. If mommy had not brought me into this beautiful home that one day when I was a baby, I wouldn’t have come out stronger, with a voice, and become who I am today. Those days of training and firmness that she had, made my mom and I find our purpose and mission. I still remember briefly moments being taught in the garden, at her terrace, even at the temple in her home. Even after my training, when I came to visit Alaka Maam the last 14 years, I had to keep my A game on knowing that even till now she still would have that firmness inside of her. I still can smell the familiar smell of her home and nostalgia hits. When i visited her last in 2022, I remember feeling mixed emotions since she was facing dementia at the time, I remember the exact feeling I had when she came out of those familiar doors in her yellow sari and smile on her face. I look at those hands of hers and just immediately teared up. Both mommy and I held her beautiful hands and spoke with her about all our memories and to hear those giggles and beautiful voice. I am so glad I was able to give her my favorite sketch I made of us three and to see that hung up with our photos in the living room. I remember I cried so much after leaving her place as I missed her so much. Even in between visits, Ram Uncle would show Alaka Maam all the moments of victories I faced in the last 14 years and the amount of praises and pride she would send my way meant the whole world. Even that birthday video she made for me when I was 18 years old made me tear up. Even when we visit India, the main reason I would go to Pune was to see Alaka Maam. Without her and my mommy’s dedication, I wouldn’t be able to go to international schools, speak, spread awareness, be able to dance, program hearing aids, be a solid example to those who need, and most importantly become an independent adult who goes to college. When I want to procrastinate or give up, I look at a print I made of both mommy and Alaka Maam that I hung in front of me when I study and then immediately I’m back at it again. I promise her and my mom that I will continue to make them proud and keep working hard. Thank you Alaka Maam, I miss you so much already and wish I could give another hug to you right now… May you rest and I know you are smiling from up and still helping everyone! I love you so much!