In honor and memory of Mary Ann Cahill, LLL Founder

To say that Mary Ann Cahill was an extraordinary woman is a total understatement. While working with her on the LLLI Board of Directors and afterwards with the LLLI Alumnae Association, I was constantly amazed by new facets and new depths to her . She served as Executive Director during a hard transition time, and stood up to the challenge with courage and compassion. She had the courage to write the book “The Heart Has Its Own Reasons” and stand up for principles and ideals that were not reinforced by our culture. Through the book she helped validate families all over the world, as they made “unpopular” but crucial decisions. Mary Ann’s heart of gold sustained me through many times as a mother and a woman. She helped me through family illnesses when I most needed the support. I loved her love of music and how much fun we had with Alumnae teas, Board skits and so many other priceless experiences!

I was with Mary Ann at the 15^th Anniversary of Attachment Parenting International, where she shared her experiences and passion for the ideals that API and LLL have in common. At the benefit concert we sat together to hear Vince Gill, Gary Nicholson and Beth Nielson Chapman perform with their adult children. I wrapped my arms around her and it was like hugging my own mother, who had recently passed away. It was, like many others with Mary Ann, a healing experience.

I thank God for Mary Ann and the profound impact she had on so many people. Well done, good and faithful servant!