Iselin Mom Brightens The Lives Of All Who Know Her, Family Says

WOODBRIDGE, NJ— Moms do so much for everyone around them. We try to celebrate them all year long, but Mother's Day is a perfect opportunity to shout it from the rooftops and post it on Patch: Mom rocks!

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize the awesome moms and mom figures in communities like yours.

This submission comes from Theresa Wood who nominated Virginia Strauss of Iselin.

What makes your mom extra special?

My mom raised seven kids here in Iselin while working as a nursing supervisor at JFK Hospital. Growing up, she was the "neighborhood nurse", the go-to for anyone hurt or sick. She and my dad were active not only in our lives and activities but in the community as well. She is now 86, smart as a whip, and still, the kindest, most thoughtful person I know. She has a unique combination of toughness and kindness which has served her well through some difficult times, including the loss of her son on 9/11 and the love of her life — my dad — to ALS. She is the glue that still holds us all together and brightens the lives of all who know her, waking each day with a smile. We are truly blessed to still have her in our lives. Happy Mother's Day!

Why do you feel your mom deserves the spotlight?

She is and always has been selfless. She has always been the backbone, allowing each of us to shine in our own way. She is the go-to for advice or just to share some news. Good or bad, she always knows how to make you feel like you are the most important person, which is not easy to do with seven kids, a husband, and a job. She is now and has always been a truly incredible woman.

Happy Mother's Day to Virginia Strauss, and thank you for all you do!

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Know an amazing mom? Nominate them here.