Mother unlocks daughter's potential
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

TRUE LOVE- Moorpark mom Debbie Heaslip adjusts her schedule and workload to provide support for her daughter Miranda, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor and seizures when she was a young child. SYLVIE BELMOND/Acorn Newspapers

Although motherhood is a lifelong commitment laden with challenges, the priceless experiences and countless rewards can't be duplicated, according to Debbie Heaslip, whose daughter Miranda was diagnosed with a seizure condition and brain tumor when she was a young child.

"The primary role of a mother is to teach her children steadfast values, a sense of self, commitment to family and community," Heaslip said. But most importantly, she said, mothers must make sure their children know they are unconditionally loved.

Even when predictions were bleak, Heaslip refused to believe in the word "impossible."

"My mom is the strongest, most selfless and loving person I know," said Miranda. "Every aspect of my life, even my being alive, is because my mom would never give up at providing me with every opportunity that each of her children were given."

Debbie and Richard Heaslip have been married for 36 years. The couple have four grown children, one grandchild and one more on the way.

"I know there is no other person on Earth I would want to be the mother of my children," said Richard Heaslip.

Miranda's health concerns required adjustments, but they didn't preclude each child in the Heaslip family from growing up with the activities and experiences that other kids have.

The difficulties, in fact, turned into valuable learning opportunities because everyone learned the art of caring and of time management and the value of family and of what they were given, said Heaslip.

"I have tried very hard to avoid expectations for my children. Whether they planned to sell shoes or be brain surgeons, I only asked that they do the best they could do no matter what they commit to," Heaslip said.

Miranda succeeded in school and completed two years of college because her mom attended every class with her, not only to make sure Miranda would be safe medically, but also to serve as an everpresent resource.

Mother and daughter still spend most of their day together at the Moorpark Chamber of Commerce. While Miranda tends to her administrative duties, her mom sits nearby ready to lend a hand.

"I'm here solely to help Miranda have complete independence and success," said Heaslip, adding she plans to tag along for a few more months to make certain that Miranda doesn't have a stress-induced seizure.

The unwavering support of her mother nurtured a steadfast young woman who mirrors the commitment and values that were passed on to her.

"My mom taught me the importance of being dependable, respectful and giving," Miranda said.

The local mom, business owner and community volunteer will be honored at the Moorpark Chamber awards banquet next week.

"She's not only a fantastic mom, but also a great friend and confidante to her daughter," said Patrick Ellis, Chamber president.