Section 1.1: Contest Theme and Rules

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Reflecting on the last time I spoke with my mother, I remember it vividly. It was New Year’s Eve in 2010 when I called her to exchange joyful wishes for the year ahead, excited about her planned visit to Canada that summer. Little did I know that just two days later, everything would change.

On January 2nd, I received a call from my dad. He was never one for sugarcoating, and he delivered the shocking news: “Your mom has collapsed and is in a coma at the hospital. You need to come home.”

I felt like the ground had fallen from beneath me. In a panic, I called my then-husband to help care for our three-year-old son while I processed the devastating news. I rushed upstairs, wanting to shield my little boy from my tears.

“What happened?” I asked my dad, my voice trembling. “What do you mean she’s going to die?”

He explained, “She collapsed at 6 AM while getting ready for work.”

Without going into too much detail, I’ll just say that my parents live in Hungary, where the healthcare system leaves much to be desired.

In desperation, I pleaded with my father, “Can’t you do anything? I can send money to get her the best doctors!” But his reply was filled with despair: “You don’t understand—we can’t do anything. She’s going to die!”

Overwhelmed with grief, I booked a flight for that very day. The eight-hour journey felt like an eternity. Upon my arrival, my family took me directly to the hospital, where I found my mother lifeless, sustained only by machines.

On January 7th, she passed away at the age of 51. I lost so much more than just my mom; I lost future dreams, a confidante, and my guiding light. Even after 14 years, the pain still brings tears to my eyes. Yet, I have found solace in the belief that she watches over me in spirit, inspiring me every day.

This Mother’s Day, let’s honor the unconditional love that mothers provide. As a mother of two wonderful children myself, I understand the profound impact of a mother’s love.

Let’s celebrate our mothers to infinity and beyond, and inspire the world with our stories of love and resilience.

Section 1.2: Contest Details

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Contest Theme & Rules:

• Theme: Mother’s Love
• Hashtag: #buhubmotherslove
• Eligibility: Participants must be writers for BUHUB (one entry per writer).
• Prizes: First place $50, Second place $25, Third place $10
• Deadline: May 12th, 2024
• Format: Poetry, Short or Long Stories (no AI submissions, please)
• Content: True Life Stories—write about your mother, your experience as a mother, or any motherly figure in your life.

Note: A minimum of 22 participants is required for prizes to be awarded, ensuring a lively competition within the Be Unlimited Hub community.

If you’re interested in joining our tribe, click here to discover what the Be Unlimited Hub publication on Medium.com is all about and come write with us!

This contest is dedicated to my mom, with all my love. Thank you.

Emy Knazovic, editor at Be Unlimited Hub publication.