In this conversation, lifelong friends Maerie and Roberta honor the memories of their mothers, Mildred and Alberta, the deep bond between all four of them, and what amazing women they were. They also share the supportive role that Al-Anon played in all their lives.

“Had I not had your mom, I don’t know what path I would have taken.” - Meari

“Blessed are thou that we had our moms and that we have each other.” - Roberta

Hear Mearie and Roberta's full conversation in the StoryCorps Archive.

For more about StoryCorps CT, visit ctpublic.org/storycorpsct.

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Sandra and Doreen both immigrated from Barbados to the U.S. in their youth and share two share very different experiences of coming to North America. Doreen also explains how she never felt confident putting roots down here.

“I have to say I was initially very impressed. I was a very curious child, so I was looking around, I was like, I love the lights. There was so much to like.” - Sandra

“Clearly, I’m still here. And so, at some point, I’m going to have to own this American self.” - Doreen

Hear their full interview in the StoryCorps Archive.

For more on StoryCorps CT, visit ctpublic.org/storycorpsct.

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Andrea Rapacz talks with Lydia Mele about her parent's love story and the impact Lydia's mother, Olga Mele, had on their family and the Hispanic community in the Hartford area. You'll hear about her early involvement in the San Juan Center and her tireless efforts to support the people in her community. Lydia told Andrea, “Mom inspired everyone to reach their highest potential, including me.”

“Her main mission was to help people find jobs, get educated, and empower them to help themselves.” - Lydia Mele

“He always said my mother was his salvation.” - Lydia Mele (referencing a story about her father)

Hear the full interview in the StoryCorps Archive.

For more on StoryCorps CT, visit ctpublic.org/storycorpsct.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.