A Mother's Timeless Love

Time is used to measure many things; however, some things are not bound by the constraints of time. A mother’s love is timeless and doesn’t cease once her children become adults. Regardless of age, she will always be “mom.”

Darlene Sumpter’s motherhood experience was unique. This Division of Benefits and Medical Eligibility Program Compliance Auditor understands life can come with unexpected surprises.

For Sumpter, the unexpected surprise came in the form of motherhood at an early age. Fortunately, her own mother was her main source of support during this time.

“My mother stood by me and encouraged me to keep pursuing my dreams,” said Sumpter. “My mom was very important because I had lost my father when I was only six [years old].”

Completing her education was a dream, not only for Sumpter, but also one her mother envisioned for her.

“My mom helped me by babysitting my daughter while I went to school,” she said. 

After graduating from high school, Sumpter enrolled at Phoenix College. Despite some nervousness and uncertainty, Sumpter successfully completed her associate’s degree. She credits the support of others that allowed her to accomplish this life goal. “The faculty and academic advisors were very supportive of me while I was at PC,” said Sumpter.

Having now completed her two-year degree, Sumpter began to focus on her next goal of earning a bachelor’s degree. But, life presented her with another surprise, this time, in the form of a phone call regarding her daughter and granddaughter.

“All I remember is [the authorities] telling me they both were being held, and I had five days to come get my granddaughter,” said Sumpter.

Sumpter did not hesitate even though it meant driving from Phoenix to El Paso, Texas.

“As a mother you will do anything for your children regardless of the situation,” she said.

After raising her own children, she found herself once-again in the role of “mom” for her granddaughter. She would later repeat the same act for her other four grandchildren as their mother continued to face challenges in her own life.

For many, these events would have proven too difficult to overcome. However, Sumpter chose to remain positive. “I saw my own mother overcome challenges in her life,” said Sumpter. “I told my daughter she could do the same.”

With faith and unwavering love and support, Sumpter’s daughter was finally reunited with her children, and is now working toward building a positive life for herself.

Sumpter has continued to chase her dream of completing her bachelor’s degree, and is currently enrolled at Arizona State University pursuing a degree in social work.

Asked what advice she would give mothers who find themselves in challenging situations she says, “Believe in yourself, and make the right choices.” 

By Vance Phillips Jr.