When I learned that I was pregnant  with you, I took care of myself because I want you to be healthy and intelligent and I know deep within I was carrying a great kid. I was amazed with your strength and will power, you started walking at 9 months. When you were in nursery  , I would laugh at how you correct your teachers and friends when they call you Edwin. You would say back, my name is , it’s a  not . I hardly notice how time passed by because you grew up so fast . When you started to be attracted to girls , I was jealous but couldn’t do anything about it. When we moved to the United States  to be with your Papa James, we became even closer . I love it when you teased me with the way I dress, the way I drive and the way I talk. I was only acting like I’m upset. At least I have the attention of my baby. You would tell me that you are not serious with other girls, and that I am the only girl you are serious with. You also blame me for having thick hair, not being tall enough but I love the way you complement me with your math skills and sharp memory. But son, you are better than Mama in Math and in memorizing things. You would also suggest to me to quit working and that you will just be the one to provide for us. And there was never an occasion that you were without a gift for me.  Oh, I love that Palm One you gave me and your Papa James that Christmas  after you got your first job.  I know how you have worked overtime then just to raised enough money to buy us that expensive gift.  You always showed compassion to our family. When your 6-year old niece, Geli needs surgery, you volunteered to pay for her hospital bills. How you would always send your financial support to your brothers in Manila without being told to is only a proof of how big your heart is.  I can't tell you enough how proud I am of you each time you succeed in a certain field like that speech fest competition, the honors  you received from Whitfield High School and your expertise in billiards,table tennis, basketball and other sports.   My Son, when you left this world , I lost myself too. You know that you mean the world to me (next to GOD) and living apart from you seems remote. But I realized that GOD being perfect doesn’t make mistakes so your passing is not a mistake and I will have to learn to trust GOD completely to see me through this. By the way, I read your email to your brother, Edward that says “if GOD brought you to it, he will see you through it”. So my son, enjoy the company of the angels . I thank GOD for the 20 years that I have you as my son. You never gave me trouble, all you gave me was sweet loving. You are such a wonderful child any Mom would always want for her son .

- Myra, Andrei's Mama