The Same Smile: The Triumph of a Mother's Love After Losing Two Daughters

by Susan Mello Souza, Joanne Medeiros Harrington

The Same Smile - The Triumph of a Mother's Love After Losing Two Daughters, is the story of 2 of my 4 daughters. My first born was lost to adoption in 1968 when I was 17 years old. 21 years later, my second born daughter was lost to leukemia at the age of 16. It is the story of my struggles & triumphs as a broken hearted mother in search of her first lost daughter.

166 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2002

About the author

Born and raised in New Bedford, MA, Susan lived there until 1988 when she and her husband, Jay, moved their family of three girls, Jackie, Kristine and Beth to Acushnet, MA. More recently, Susan and Jay became Florida residents but still spend summers at their Acushnet home to be near their children and grandchildren.

Since 1999, Susan has been happily reunited with her first born daughter, Joanne, whom she was forced to surrender to adoption in 1968.

Her spirit and resilience has enabled Susan to triumph over life's disappointments. After the death of her sixteen-year-old daughter, Jacqueline, in 1990, she founded the Friends of Jackie Memorial Fund which has raised and distributed over $90,000.00.

She is an inspirational speaker, having lectured at Stonehill College, Salve Regina University, American Business Women's Association, "Strengthening Your Spirit" Reiki Retreat, and the Rotary Club, to mention a few.

Susan's extraordinary life experiences offer an important message to all, proving...

"You can do anything in life you set your mind to, provided it is powered by your heart."

Reviews

[Susan Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book moved me and taught me about determination. I fell in love with her family, and her perseverance gave me hope.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book several years ago. This year I put it on my Kindle and read it again. It is an inspiring story of a mother's love in life and death. I laughed and cried my way through it. Thank you Susan and Joanne for sharing your experiences.

[Cheryl Albernaz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Blurb:
This is an authentic story that crosses all generations and cultures. It could be any woman's story. It touched me.

[Elaine willey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book years ago and also sent copies to members of my family.. I loved this book so much especially the triumph that brought them together.

[Patti Foley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful heart wrencing story written by a woman whose courage and compassion is amazing.

[Rosemary Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a well written, moving , compelling book. With chapters taking me from smiles to tears, my emotions were all over. Susan's story stayed with me. Her bravery and her heartache remind us to never give up.

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for sharing your inspiring story... ❤️ My heart broke and healed as I read about your journey... May others find strength from you!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy box of tissues batman! Two things absolutely necessary for this book: tissues and as much uninterrupted time as you can possibly get. Thanks to the rare 30 degree temps outside here in AZ, I curled up with this book and a box of tissues and indulged big time. I finished it in practically one sitting. What a heartbreaking and then heart filling story. It is amazing and mysterious how the world works and why life throws us the curve balls it does. This is a story of deep valleys and high peaks of a mother’s journey. A big thank you to Susan and Joanne for sharing the story of their journeys. I especially liked being able to hear both of your perspectives on the same situation and am amazed at how much hurt and healing the heart can endure.

If I could possibly summarize it: it was a wonderful read and a great insight to a real family’s story and how people grow, grieve and love in real life and real time.

http://fiftyin52.wordpress.com/2013/0...

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful and truthful account written by and about some very special people.