Nineteen Autumns with Mia: A Mother's Reflection

On October 19, 2025, my daughter turned 19. The years have flown by—each one marked by growth, resilience, and community. I still remember the baby shower during my time at the Ponce School of Medicine—now Ponce Health Sciences University—and the unwavering support from my peers and faculty. My obstetrician, Dr. Martinez, and Mia’s pediatrician, Dr. Galarza, followed our journey with care. Our medical student friends quickly became titis to Mia, and my extended family in Puerto Rico gave her the Boricua holiday warmth I’m so grateful she experienced.

Mia strolling along the shoreline in Florida

From one Port to another Port

When we moved to Portland, Oregon, I worried about the transition. But Dr. Ed and Jill Neuwelt became stand-in grandparents, and within weeks, Mia had access to excellent ENT care and state services. She even piloted peer-mediated behavioral therapy at Portland Jewish Academy, where her social growth blossomed. Her teacher Jaime, who also babysat, played a key role in her successful potty training. I’ll never forget walking home with preschool-age Mia in the fall—leaves swirling, puddles splashing, daylight fading. Those moments are etched in my heart.

City of Boise Skyline

Boise bound

Our move to Boise, Idaho was smoother, with more sunshine and shorter distance. Mia started kindergarten with a teacher who retired that same year—just like my grandmother, who retired from La Escuelita Maternal Dr. Pila after teaching me. It didn’t feel like a coincidence. Despite the demands of residency, we brought Mia to nearly every event, maximizing our time together. Dr. Scott Smith, his wife, and Dr. Kate Smith became family-like supports, helping Mia flourish.

Later, a move across town meant a new school. Mia had a wonderful teacher but struggled with the transition every day for three months—until Will began volunteering. That changed everything. Mia found friends and flourished again.

Mia graduated high school with honors thanks to the support of a school community and her determination

School years flew by, and with the support of the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program, Mia graduated with honors. As she begins her university journey, she continues to flourish—growing taller than me, yes, but more importantly, growing into a thoughtful, resilient young woman. Now, with my parents nearby, Mia gets to enjoy the Boricua community, food, and culture that shaped me—and that I’m so grateful she can continue to experience. It’s a full-circle moment: the warmth of our heritage now surrounds her in everyday life, grounding her as she steps into adulthood.

As a proud mamá, I look forward to being there for her next transitions, cheering her on every step of the way.

At Libélula, we honor stories like these—of family, transition, and the communities that help us grow. Thank you for being part of ours.