If you knew my mom, you knew she was a fighter—strong, smart, kind, and a fiercely Greek YiaYia, devoted to her family.

She lived for her children and grandchildren, finding joy in the everyday: cooking, doing laundry, washing dishes, and taking care of the people, she loved. That’s how she gave love—quietly, consistently, and with all her heart.

Two and a half years ago, she was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer and was given just 3 to 8 months to live. When she heard that, she looked at me and said, “What are they talking about?” She didn’t believe it for a second. She said they were wrong—and she proved them wrong every single day after that.

She never lived like she was sick. She continued celebrating life with joy and determination. We celebrated every day—especially holidays and birthdays. She made it to 77 years, and in those final two years, she truly lived.

She traveled to Florida for Steven’s Opening Day baseball game, cheered at Michael’s lacrosse games, supported Sophia at her dance competitions and recitals, went prom dress shopping, attended Red & Gold, and never missed a Nick concert or football game. Even after over 100 rounds of chemo, she remained cautious—but still made time for adventure. This past year alone, we went to Florida, Sag Harbor, and countless baseball and lacrosse games. She didn’t just attend—she would rewatch the games on her phone, proud and invested in every moment.

Our last adventure with her was in Philadelphia for Michael’s Senior Weekend lacrosse game. We had a beautiful time and shared a special Greek and American Easter dinner together at a downtown Philly restaurant. She loved the authentic lamb, soup, and lemon potatoes—but couldn’t help commenting, “They’re good—but not as good as mine.” She was right.

In her final weeks, we saw the disease slowly take her body—but never her spirit. Her mind stayed sharp, her heart stayed full, and her love never wavered.

She taught us to be strong, to be kind, to never give up, and to stand tall for what we believe in. She showed us that the strength of your mind and spirit can be more powerful than any illness.

We will miss her more than words can say. But her love, her strength, and her joy live on in all of us.

She would always say “Everything is better in Greece.”  And she was right because they made her.