Every fiber and feather in this sculpture tells a story that began with Helene and ended with my mother's death 79 days later. Her light-colored threads honor mom and the sacrifices of neighbors, who risked their lives to help us, as well as the countless volunteers who transformed a school gym into a safe haven for those reliant on electricity to survive. We returned home 11 days later, and I started working on this piece. Just 5 days after returning home, my world shrank to a chair in my mother's hospital and rehab rooms. Eyeless and nameless, this piece kept my hands busy and her whimsical charm was already bringing smiles to those she met. Her light-colored body and flamboyant tail serve as a testament to love, strength and resilience- despite her mud-stained legs and tail. She would become "Nadya," a name symbolizing hope. "Nadya" represents hope for a life well-lived, a future filled with new stories, and hope that even in difficult times, the gift of a smile can bring light and joy.