I first met my Aunty in the mid-80s as I started my high school journey. I remember introducing myself to a group of seniors, and when one of them learned my name, she asked if I was related to the Opuni family. Through that connection, AuntyMonica quickly reached out and told me I was her niece. To this day, she continues to share stories about my dad, keeping his memory alive for me. Depending on the mood of the day, I call her either AuntyM orMrs A. Wow, her wisdom, guidance, and generosity shine through her children. Her unwavering support has inspired me to always be my best self. She is a nurturing, calm, and beautiful God-fearing woman. One of my favourite memories is how every time she sees me, she says, “Eiiii Mona, wu s3 wu Papa oooo!” and smiles, sharing stories about the childhood she spent with my dad right up until his last days. AuntyMonica once flew all the way fromGhana to the UKwhen she heard about my dad’s medical situation. Her presence and care reminded me that blood ties and family bonds matter, no matter the distance. A funny moment I still smile about: one night at the Chief ’s residence, I told her about the resistance I faced as a parliamentary candidate in my village. The next morning, she arrived dressed in a T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers, ready to accompany me to “face” those people! That gesture still warms my heart. If I could thank her for just one thing, it would be for being an AMAZINGAUNT for over forty years. Through her, I’ve learned so much about my family tree. HipHipHooray! Here’s to many more blessings and memories together! Happy 80th! Where is the party? Ama Mona Pomaa Boateng I met AuntieMonica on Tech Campus in 1989. I affectionately call her “Asew Special.” AuntieMonica is an amazing organiser — very thorough and persistent, never giving up until the job is done. She really connects across generations and knows how to engage both the young and the old. One of my favourite memories of her is when she organised my little daughters to scrub the walls in our living room and clean all the pencil marks they had put on the walls. We came home to meet them in action, including Asew herself. That singular act made them stop writing on the walls. Indeed, the stories are many, but I will stick to this one. She has also touched my life through her practical skills in counselling and her consistent kindness. She never discriminates in how she treats others, and that has been truly inspiring. A funny moment that still makes me smile was when she was told that my mother-in-law had put me in charge of her three daughters. She said, “Asew Special, how are you going to handle this situation? Even one is a handful. Now you have three of them. Asew, I’m so sorry for you.” AuntieMonica is organised, kind, and caring. I cannot recall a single moment of misunderstanding with her. I want to thank her for her support over all these years. AuntieMonica, may the Good Lord continue to be your IMMANUEL. Kobina Dadson 130 The Birthday Journal
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