Goodbye, Lola Socorro

She came into my office four years ago, asking for help with her medical bills. Guess, she thought our department handles patient billing. She was mad, complaining that people are giving her the run around. That was how I first met her, all grumpy. I did help and directed her to people (I know) that can give her assistance. And from that day onwards, she started calling me Apo (grandson).

Every now and then, she would come to see me in the hospital. Bringing me stuff from her hometown in Bicol and sometimes, she’d be bringing homemade goodies. That’s the Lola Socorro I know, kind hearted and open handed. So when the news go to me this morning that she passed away from colon cancer. I couldn’t help but feel upset. I had to stop in the middle of my house chores, got on my knees and said a little prayer for a dear friend and my adopted grandmother.

I will miss her dearly: her smile, her love and her ever generous heart. Namomo-ot ako sa imo, Lola…