‘Mum’ hailed for raising three strong sons

For Portland resident 80-year-old Cynthia Budhoo Hall, who celebrated her birthday on Tuesday, her determination to care for her three boys was quite a challenge, especially after losing their father.

Affectionately called 'Mum' by many, Budhoo Hall basked in her birthday celebration which was hosted by her son Peter Hall. She was gracious while acknowledging those who surrounded her on her special day on the lawns of Crystal Club at Boundbrook.

"The outpouring of love from friends and family members is quite touching. I had to fight back the tears, especially while reflecting on the journey with my three sons, Aubyn, Peter, and Owen, who are now fully grown men," she said.

"I basically live for my sons and the kind of relationship that we share makes me feel very special and proud. They are always fussing over me, but I guess it is their way of showing that they care. It was never easy and there were days when it was tough, but we pulled through by the grace of God. Today Owen and Aubyn reside in the United States, however, Peter has decided to remain in Jamaica, where he does business," she added.

Budhoo Hall said that when her husband, the boys' father died, it was like a crippling blow.

"I then took on the role of a single parent. At the time I was operating a restaurant, Green Palm, which at the time served sumptuous meals to our guests. But it was a difficult period for us financially. Overnight the boys grew up and started to fend for themselves, and today they are more financially stable, " she added.

A MOTHER'S DREAM

According to Budhoo Hall, it is a good feeling seeing her sons fully focusing on business including the restaurant, entertainment, farming, and promoting of events. She pointed out that it is every mother's dream to secure and to want the best for their children.

"She is the greatest. Her words of encouragement to us were to always do the right thing. Even when we mess up, she is at us over and over just to make it right. I really don't know how she managed at times, but we always ate from the same table and together as a family. Every and any decision that is to be made was discussed among us," said Peter.

Budhoo Hall's sons, who operate as business partners, are always supportive of each other, even though they are some distance away. However, according to her best friend, Marcia Cecile Lawrence, the brothers are always together whenever they are staging entertainment events, which she said is a show of love and unity.

"Today I am surrounded by friends and families marking my 80th year on planet Earth," said Budhoo Hall. "I have touched the hearts of so many people, and when I am walking on the streets of Port Antonio, people keep reminding me about the help I gave to them. To be honest, sometimes I wonder if it is really me that they are talking about." She admitted that when they were younger, her boys made mistakes like other children.

"But through proper guidance and mentorship, they have shunned the past mistakes and have blossomed into legitimate business operators, who have given back to society on many occasions. I always said to them 'Make sure that you share whatever you have with the less fortunate,' and so far they are doing just that," she added.

As part of her birthday celebration, a live band, Algorithm, provided entertainment, while sumptuous meals including curried goat, fried chicken, steam fish, grilled lobster, goat head soup, and potato salad, and a variety of beverages were served.