Heidi Juhasz's Validation from her son Rae through Karina Hemby

A reading that made me feel my Rae close to me again.

All day today, I had this feeling that I needed to make sure I didn't miss Karina Hemby's gallery reading. Normally, making it to a reading isn't something I get this worked up about, but today was different. I kept feeling this need to make sure I was there, that I didn't miss it. Looking back, I know Rae knew I was waiting to hear from him.

Karina first came through mentioning Rocky. Not only was Rae a boxer, but his dad has always called him Rocky Bad-boy. If you knew Rae, you knew he was always the big, strong one. He was the bigger guy, the stocky-built guy, strong in stature his entire life. That connection hit home immediately.

Karina was also spot-on with Rae's passing. My son was in college and went to a party already intoxicated. He continued drinking as more drinks were pushed on him. He was with five people he trusted, people he believed were his friends. There was a disagreement, Rae walked away, and they followed him. My son was killed. He was only 26 years old.

Then Karina spoke about Rae's sister and the month of May. We have just found out that Rae's sister is pregnant after struggling to conceive, and her baby is due in May. Rae absolutely loved children. I love that he knows and is sharing in this happiness with us. The thought of a new baby joining our family, with Rae forever part of our story, touches my heart in a way I can't explain.

The bluebird sign was right on, too. So was her recognition of the incredibly close bond Rae and I shared. He wasn't just my son; he was a piece of my soul. Our connection was so deep, and I spent so much of his life trying to protect him.

I had a very strong premonition and intuition that Rae would pass away at a young age. At times, it was almost crippling, constantly worrying about him and trying to protect him. I wish more than anything that I could have protected him from what happened, but I know this was our soul's plan.

Karina also mentioned my parents' anniversary, November 18th. Another personal detail that made me stop and reflect.

One thing about me is that I always ask Rae for big signs, and my boy has never disappointed me. Tonight was no different. From the feeling I had all day that I needed to be there, to the details that connected so deeply with his life, I was left emotional and grateful for this experience.

Thank you, Karina Hemby, for bringing Rae through and giving this mama a moment that meant so much. Thank you for helping me feel connected to my boy tonight.