Two and a half weeks ago my mom passed away. She had not been feeling like herself this past year but it was never expected that things would take this turn. It is a very sad and confusing time for my family and me and something I’m sure I will never get over.
I have been thinking about her a lot, thinking about the wonderful world she created for all of us. A home she designed for her family that was always filled with love and positive energy. Home cooked meals at least six nights a week with the eight of us around the table talking, debating and always lots of laughter. How a woman does this with six children while volunteering and performing in our town theater still amazes me.
People ask me why I shoot food and my answer is simple. It’s because of my mother and those dinners; the way she would hum along with the music while she cooked, the house filled with delicious aromas, talk and laughter. This is the world she created, and it’s the feeling I am always trying to convey while I’m shooting.
It’s the same sense of community that I have found with APA. I like being a part of something special; a strong community filled with good people standing up for an industry that I love. I know my mom was proud of all that I have accomplished and happy that I am surrounded by such a supportive group of people. That is something I hold dear.
People say time will make things easier and I know that I will continue to discover and rediscover things about her that will keep me close to her. She gave my family and everyone that knew and loved her a strong connection to each other and to the world, and that is something I will work hard to continue
Theresa Raffetto
APA National President
Theresa,
What a beautiful tribute to your mother. With deepest sympathy, Constance