Today, my grandfather turns 97.
When life took my mother away, he didn’t hesitate. He stepped in, stood tall, and raised me with love, patience, and strength—alone, without ever complaining. He became my safe place, my teacher, my hero.

Every wrinkle on his face holds a story of sacrifice. Every smile carries years of quiet love. Because of him, I learned what resilience looks like. Because of him, I am who I am today.

Ninety-seven years of a life that mattered. A heart that never gave up. A man who gave everything so I could stand on my own.
If you see this, please take a moment to wish him a happy 97th birthday. Your kind words would mean more than you know.