THROUGH tears and anguish, Candy Jageshar made a heartfelt appeal to mothers across Trinidad and Tobago to love and cherish their children, especially their sons, as she marked 26 painful days without hearing from her 21-year-old son, Thomas Vasquez.

“To all mothers, grandmothers, mothers-to-be, guardians, and women – Happy Mother’s Day,” she said. “Hug your children, especially your sons. Love them. Kiss them, no matter what.”

Speaking to Newsday on Mother's Day, May 11, just before heading to church, Jageshar urged parents to forgive their children and encouraged mothers to offer grace as their sons navigate life’s challenges.