Lou Aguilar recently shared a heartfelt tribute to his mother, Vera Mestre, who passed away at the age of 92. Aguilar reflected on the profound impact she had on his life and the memories they created together, especially during her illness. He recalled how the annual observance of Ash Wednesday would now serve as a reminder of her legacy.
Vera Mestre was born into Cuban aristocracy during a time when the island was still influenced by Spanish culture. Her family, particularly her father, Luis Augusto Mestre, played a significant role in Cuban commerce, establishing a pharmaceutical empire in the 1840s. The family thrived until the political upheaval brought about by Fidel Castro’s regime.
Aguilar reminisced about his mother’s grace and elegance, qualities that endeared her to everyone around her. He described her as a figure of sophistication in a bygone era. Throughout her life, she was loved by two remarkable men: first by Aguilar’s father, who was a prominent figure in academia and a critic of Castro, and later by Juan Grau, a successful businessman who treated her with the same care and attention she had known in her youth.
In the later years of her life, Vera faced health challenges, including a battle with breast cancer. Aguilar shared how their relationship deepened during this time, as he drove her to treatments and spent quality time with her watching their favorite shows. He cherished these moments and the bond they formed.
Aguilar also highlighted the impact Vera had on others, noting how she was affectionately referred to as "Señora Vera" by staff in her apartment building. Her passing left a significant void, and her memory will continue to resonate with those who knew her.
In a poignant closing, Aguilar expressed his hope to reunite with his mother in the afterlife, echoing a sentiment from "The Three Musketeers" that she was an angel on Earth before becoming one in Heaven. This tribute serves not only as a remembrance of a beloved mother but also as a reflection on a life filled with history, resilience, and love.