In many countries, this Sunday marks a very special day in which we celebrate and show our appreciation for the unsung heroes in our lives – our Mothers. In each place where it’s celebrated, Mother’s Day brings its own unique story and traditions. Similarly, we as GLOBALHealthPR partners have our own unique stories of how Mum has impacted us.
Considering this, the executives of our GHPR partner agencies around the globe reflect today on the advice that their Mum gave that helped shape them into the people who they are today. These leaders and their agencies would not be where they are today without their support.
Australia
My mother told me “to be bold and brave, to work hard and to never say die; that you reap what you sow.”
I’ve carried these words of wisdom with me throughout the various trials and tribulations of my life and plan to pass this philosophy onto my three young children.
- Kirsten Bruce, Principal, GLOBALHealthPR Australia partner, VIVA! Communications
Spain
Considering that we are six brothers, and I’m the third, she had always time to spend with everyone, something that if we look now in our own families is really difficult, so lesson learned: do all you can to stay as much time with your children; they will have the best teacher in their lives.
- Pedro Cano, CEO, GLOBALHealthPR Spain partner, Berbés Asociados
Portugal
We all carry some parts of our parents but there are things that stick stronger than others and contribute for who we are. My dear mother, a lovely and practical woman with a quirky and wonderful sense of humor shared two things that still linger. “A man isn’t measured by how many times he falls; he is measured by how many times he rises,” made me not be afraid of my mistakes and be more entrepreneurial. “Son, if you’re not a doctor it isn’t your job to take care of the craziest people,” made me not take some people too seriously and achieve the inner piece that we, as trusted advisers, need.
- Jorge Azevedo, Managing Partner, GLOBALHealthPR Portugal partner, Guess What
Singapore
My son, Wy-En, wrote a poem (when he was 15 years old) dedicated to me and this poem is part of a collection of poems he published into a book.
BEACON (Ode to my Mother)
Cherubic face and perpetual smile,
Bring cheer to me when I am down.
Encouraging words and invaluable advice,
Provide the motivation for me to go on.
Selfless and dedicated,
Tender and affectionate;
The embodiment of virtuosity.
Never one to demand reciprocation,
Nor crave recognition,
A truly altruistic woman, simple and plain.
Indeed I wonder sometimes,
What would happen if she were gone,
Pillar of strength lost – I would fall.
Cherubic face and perpetual smile,
I treasure every moment with;
My incandescent beacon;
Illuminating my life….
- Patsy Phay, Executive Director, GLOBALHealthPR Singapore partner, Mileage Communications
Argentina
My grandfather used to tell my mother and my mother always tells me “your children will be better than my children.” She is a very positive woman truly convinced that humanity always progresses. I always take with me this premise in my daily life and in the message to my little sons. Many times the future world looks grey, but we must believe we can do better.
- Eugenia De la Fuente, Principal, GLOBALHealthPR Argentina partner Paradigma
United Kingdom
My mother has taught me so much but nothing more important than to be yourself and be happy with who you are. Then you are able to accept others for who they are. I thank my mother that I am a confident and strong, independent person who is accepting of people from all walks of life.
- Claire Eldridge, Owner and MD, GLOBALHealthPR UK partner, Aurora
My Mum repeatedly told my sister, brother and I: “I don’t mind what you do for job when you get older, as long as you are happy.”
Happiness is at the core of Aurora’s philosophy: that a happy client and a happy team deliver great work. I have my Mum to thank for the importance I place on this state of mind and the benefits it brings to Aurora – cheers Mum :)).
- Neil Crump, Owner and MD, GLOBALHealthPR UK partner, Aurora
Poland
My Mom was much more special than I often let on. She taught me how to read when I was barely out of diapers, and trotted me off to museums, art galleries or the Zoo almost every Sunday. She convinced me I was special and never, ever lost faith in me, no matter how much I might have disappointed her in respect to my religious or political choices, or even that I never wanted to be a doctor or a lawyer…
- Ken Rabin, Senior Consultant, GLOBALHealthPR Poland partner, Alfa
United States
As a student in probably the sixth grade at St. Jude’s School, as I was about to head off to walk to school one morning with my brothers and sisters in tow, my Mother turned to me and commanded, “John, do something outstanding today.” I’m not sure what caused her to say what she did and why on that particular day, but I’ve never forgotten that moment or the message. Her challenge could apply to anyone on any day. By exceeding our own expectations, we promote greater good throughout the world.
The happy news is that I can still ask my Mother exactly what she meant, and by the way, what did she do extra-special today?
- John Seng, CEO, GLOBALHealthPR US Partner and Chair, Spectrum
Let’s salute all the Mums out there – Happy Mother’s Day!
