My paternal grandfather Herbert Mathurin Sr., was born on the island of Saint Lucia in 1944. His parents had over twenty children. He was also raised on the island of Barbados. He describes his reason for immigrating as a “chase for the American” dream. He lived a good life on the islands but it was not enough for him. He was head of household in his family and worked for over thirty …show more content…
However, when they met it seems as if she lost her identity. My grandfather Herbert was the head of household. He made all important decisions and my grandmother would never go against it. She catered to him. She became a housewife and opened up a day care in their home. In 1998, at only 49 years old my grandmother Lucy died of breast cancer. Most of my family thinks that my grandmother knew that she was sick and did not say anything. During her years married to my grandfather, my grandmother was severely abused by him. She was abused both physically and verbally. This part of my life makes me really sad. She died when I was only four years old. The memories that I have of her are very limited. I have been told so many good things about her and I long for a close relationship with my grandparents.
My mother Mosa Mathurin is the first female child for my grandparents. She recalls a life of abuse. My grandfather would beat them for everything. He was an alcoholic. My mom also says that she did not feel loved in her household. She never felt pretty. My