I, too, had the privilege of meeting Esther on the trip to Turkey in September, 2009. She and I were roommates and I had the opportunity to speak with her at length about the reasons for her trip and learn about her background. I am so glad that she was able to make this trip. She was a wonderful traveling companion and she seemed to get an inner strength to cope with such a sometimes arduous journey. Her visit her father's village of Hakistun quite a thrill for her. I am enriched by having had the opportunity to meet such a wonderful woman . She was fiercely proud of her sons and always saw her cup as full. Esther was thankful for all that she had. Her kindness was beyond measure. We kept in touch after the trip and spoke several on the phone. Sadly, I was unable to visit her while she was in the hospital. She will be missed and will be with me in spirit when I go back to visit the forgotten Armenian villages in Turkey. May you find peace and comfort in remembering all the wonderful memories of your mother, sister, and friend. Lucille Hamparian
