Moses Lake Community Health names mothers of the year

MOSES LAKE — Three mothers with stories of strength are being recognized for their hard work this year.

Moses Lake Community Health Center named Soap Lake resident Angelica Galeana, Moses Lake resident Rosalinda Torres and Moses Lake resident Amanda McAnulty mothers of the year.

"I had a big smile on my face," said McAnulty. "I just didn't know what to say."

The mothers receive services from Maternity Support Services at Moses Lake Community Health Center.

McAnulty began going to Moses Lake Community Health Center as a child. She is now the mother of a 5-year-old boy, a 2-year-old girl and a 5-month old boy.

After missing her daughter's first steps, McAnulty made the decision to stay home and work as a full-time babysitter so she could be with her children.

"My mom helps me a lot, but I'm still doing it on my own," she said.

On Valentine's Day and eight months pregnant with her daughter, McAnulty was diagnosed with epilepsy. Her mother drives her where she needs to go until she can be approved to drive again.

"I'd like to say happy Mother's Day to my mom," McAnulty said. "She's helped me so much. I couldn't do it without her."

Galeana made the decision to return to school, despite holding a job and taking care of her two daughters. She registered at Big Bend Community College and is completing her prerequisites for the nursing program.

"I think it will all be worth it in the end, and I want my daughters to be proud of me," Galeana said.

Some people told her she would not be able to handle school at the same time as her other responsibilities. She is proving them wrong.

"People would tell me that I wouldn't be able to do it, but I did it anyway," she said.

She said she is finding it easier than she imagined.

Galeana said she wanted to let other mothers in the community know they can achieve their dreams.

"It can be done," she said.