Two daughters, who are identical twins born and raised in Hartford, CT, decided to document the life of their adopted father (Papi). In the mold of Tuesdays with Morrie, author Maribel Santana-Texidor and her sister Marisol Santana-Texidor share some of the greatest lessons learned from Papi which helped shaped their lives.

These lessons are captured during intimate moments where Papi describes his childhood, moving to the United States, navigating the workforce, and love & marriage. The lessons on maintaining a healthy marriage and raising a family are invaluable.

We also explore the importance of rising above challenges with humility. You will be intrigued with his love and level of commitment to his wife who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

Until her passing in 2021 he kept his promise to never leave her side. This included never placing her in a skilled nursing facility.

Papi became her caregiver for over 10 years and when he was forced to have back surgery (Spinal Stenosis), his two daughters quickly moved in to care for Mami. Papi was in a rehabilitation center for many weeks and could not wait to recover so he could be reunited with his wife.

You will be inspired by his life and appreciate the many lessons he shares. Editorial Reviews…Papi, the adopted father of Marisol and Maribel…he is their rock, the one they look up to in all things…the most important person in their lives…beautifully written…a passionate telling of one man’s life.

His words intertwined with stories…touch the hearts of those that read it leaving them with memories and wisdom…all the photos…making the stories more real…Mami and Papi’s relationship is one to be admired…they genuinely loved each other…embodied the vow of “in sickness and health. ”…this family…filled with love, hardship, loss, and such a strong bond.

…Mami was the love of his life…She had Alzheimer’s disease…He lay next to her when she took her final breath…Santana-Texidor shares some of the greatest lessons…from Papi…about love, marriage, work, frugality, responsibility…his grandchildren, and his love of classic cars. I highly recommend you read this book…a tale of love, strength, and perseverance you will not soon forget.

…a beautiful book of memories…will touch your heart…bring a smile to your face…a memoir of life…this humble man’s only question was “why?’…begins in his adolescent years…his move from Puerto Rico to Connecticut …his challenges, his dreams…I found myself cheering him on, crying with him in sadness and celebrating his victories…we see “Papi’s” wisdom and beautiful soul. This is a definite five star read.

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