I met Monica at KNUST in the 1970s in the company of her elder sister, Mrs. GraceMensah-Bonsu, and her husband, Mr. YawAsante. She and her husband lived at No. 1 Asuogya Road, and she accompanied him to Cambridge when he went to study for hisMaster’s. She visits regularly to find out how the household is faring, and this is always very much appreciated. She is very warm and kind and often brings us fruits. She played a key role when my wife passed three years ago and helped with planning and organising her burial and funeral. She has always been a committed and devout Catholic. I really admired her fortitude when her husband died. Her fortitude, wisdom, courage, and hard work enabled her to take care of their four children single-handedly. She looked after them very well; they are all professionals, and she is now reaping the benefits of her hard work. Her ability to complete the unfinished building when her husband died, and even add a block and rent half of it, is also evidence of these traits. As she celebrates 80 years, I wish her all the best and many more years ahead. My only advice is that she should not live alone. This is based on a recent experience with a family member who passed out in her garden, and but for the intervention of someone staying with her who came to her rescue, it would have been fatal. Prof. Owusu Addo We met AuntieMonica over 40 years ago through Prof. &Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie. I affectionately call her “My Dear,” and she calls me the same. We have been close and very good friends for a very long time, sharing good vibes and raising our children together, especially Naana and Sister (Akua). One phrase of hers that always stays with us is, “Nyame tiase.” Amoment that truly touches our hearts involves a young gentleman named Kwame, who happened to be mentally challenged and lost his mother some years back. Every Sunday after church, without fail, this boy would go to AuntieMonica for his pocket money for the week. Not once have I seen her refuse him. She has been doing it warm-heartedly for years to date, and that has really impressed and moved us. A funny and light-hearted memory is when we decided to take a trip together to Israel. Our constant back-and-forth planning and her pleasant jokes made the whole experience so enjoyable, showing the special bond we share. There has never been a misunderstanding between us and Auntie Monica. She is God-fearing, always putting faith first; super friendly, drawing everyone in with her warmth; and carries the sweetest personality, making her a joy to be around. If we could thank her for just one thing, it would be for being a good, honest, and faithful friend to us and the entire family. Happy fabulous eightieth, “My Dear”! May the good Lord guide and keep you with many more healthy years ahead. Enjoy your new age with pride because you’ve earned it. We thank God for your life and pray you stay blessed. Love always, Prof. & Mrs. Acheampong The Birthday Journal 35
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