I dedicate this book to my parents. I am because you sacrificed so much.
To my husband, Manny, thank you for being my partner in life, for holding my hand, always, especially when it’s hard, and telling me that the kids would not only come, but that they would be alright.
Gabriel and Paloma, you are my blessings.
To my family and friends, thank you for letting me share our stories—warts and all.
To my teachers and mentors, thank you for the guidance.
To my literary agent Ryan Fisher-Harbage, thank you for always believing that I had a book in me. And that my story mattered. Had you not called, this would not have happened.
Charisse Jones, thank you for making my words make sense. I’m humbled by your artistry.
Thank you to my editor Hilary Swanson, and the incredible team at HarperOne. You believed that perhaps my story could lift someone up. You pushed me to write about the difficult times. And for that I am so grateful.
And to those who don’t believe that their dreams are possible . . . they are.