Here is the list of the top 10 finalists voted by you

Nominee #1

I have the most generous, funny, loving, without-fault sister ever, who inspires others to be as dedicated, giving, talented, and life-loving as she. My Mom died when I was 18 months old, so my 15-year-old sister quit school to help Grandmother take care of me and my brother, and help with the many chores of life on Tancook Island, NS, a traditional fishing community. She raised five children, passing on to them, and her ten grandchildren, three great grandchildren, the island's values and traditions-three new generations of Tancookers! Everyone is welcome in her home. There was always room for the many teenagers who felt at home in her house. She is a very patient person and accepts people for who they are. Her talents include painting, rug-hooking, and the best blueberry wine on Tancook. She is actively involved in Popplerock, the island's arts and crafts collective. She loves the community dance she does a mean waltz or twist.  Eighty in August--we should all be so young.

Nominee #2

My mom is 87 years old and  has always been there for everyone in my family and the community.  Five years ago my dad died and left her very lonely.  Three years ago she was diagnosed with terminal cancer.  Her weight was down to 84 pounds. She came to live with me and my family.  It has been quite a roller coaster ride dealing with the cancer.  Her strong faith in God and her determination to live has kept her strong.  Last April the doctor said that she is in remission.  Her weight is 115 pounds now.  She is a very important part of my family.  Her will to live inspires everyone in my family to live life to the fullest, love to the maximum and believe that with faith all things are possible.

Nominee #3

This tribute is to my wife of 30 years with love and thanks for all she has done over the years for myself, our two sons and the world in general. Sylvia loves to bake and cook and usually gives most of her baking and cooking away to family, friends, even strangers. The picture I submitted shows Sylvia and myself at her yearly bake-a -thon when she baked for a week straight and gave it all away to people who would otherwise not have treats at Christmas. knowing how hard it is to do this much baking I once asked her why she did this and her reply was " I was blessed with a talent for baking , so why not share?" And share she does, when our boys were in high school she baked for the Heart foundation fund raiser, 1,000 cookies!  Can you believe that? She really is an inspiration to me and our two sons. The world is a much better place with Sylvia in it and I truly would love to win a trip for her as she is the most deserving person I know and never does anything for Sylvia, always for other.

Nominee #4

This is a tribute to my dear mom who passed away 12 years ago. My Mom Florence had a rough life but brought me up to always have compassion, integrity and to be kind in all my dealings with people. Each day I remember Mom and she is in my thoughts always! When my mom took really sick I moved her into my home and took care of her and every night I prayed to a Higher Power that when I lost her I would be there to hold her hand. That did happen and on January 10 1998 my Mom passed on with me holding her hand. This date is also my wedding anniversary so it is really bitter-sweet. The things my Mom taught me I passed on to my 2 sons who are now fine young men ages 25 and 27. I have always remembered everything Mom taught me over the years and passed it on to my own sons. Growing up was a simpler, more gentle life than what we see these days and I wish we could all stop and "Smell The Roses" as mom used to say and take more time each day to really listen to others. That is what I do each day.

Nominee #5

My mom has been a full time stay at home mom raising my brother and me.  She has been a foster mother to a newborn baby while her parents went to rehab for drugs. For the past three years she has taken my grandmother in and cared for her. She is loving, funny, loyal, passionate, kind and gentle.  Even when I was moody as a teenager she was patient.  She has always made time to listen to what I had to say.  When I am having a rough patch in life she seems to know just what to say to make everything ok.  When she puts her arms around me I feel loved and safe. She inspires me to get the most out of life, live passionately and be the best person that I can be. She always reassures me that I can do anything and encourages me to strive to achieve my best.

Nominee #6

I have the most amazing sister in the world. She never gives herself enough credit, so I'd like to take this opportunity to tell everyone just how special she is.

My sister Elletta is beautiful on the outside and especially beautiful on the inside. She's always there to offer advice and help me through anything. Elletta has had to overcome some very difficult situations in her life. After multiple tubal pregnancies she conceived a baby boy through in vitro fertilization. My sister is an absolutely wonderful Mother.  She's raising a delightful little man and I'm so very proud of her. My sister Elletta inspires me and I love her very much. Thanks for reading my story:)

Nominee #7

200 words doesn't seem like enough for my nomination!
My wife has endured SO much to obtain the esteemed title of "Mother"! 5 miscarriages,1 preemie(26 weeks)and 4 months of bed rest! She did all this without thought, to give me the gift of Fatherhood, and to achieve the top honor of being a Mom! You would think after so many losses, She would have given up, but no, not Karen, it made her try harder! Then to finally achieve a pregnancy beyond 16 weeks, only then to deliver a 2 lb baby, 14wks early, give up, NO WAY, not Karen. For 3 months, she spent 12-18 hrs EVERYDAY at the hospital with our daughter! Baby #2 a challenge also, tried to make his debut at 23wks!Medical intervention, with 4 months bed rest, with a toddler, and SHE DID IT, selflessly, so our son would arrive full term! Being a "Mother" is a privilege, not a right and my wife has earned her title with such integrity! She IS the World's Best Mom and MY inspiration. Dreams really do come true, I am Dad because of her bravery! I Love you Karen

Nominee #8

I want to share my story about my sister, Vicki.  She is an amazing woman!  On January 22, 2010, Vicki lost her husband to brain cancer.  They have two boys, age 7 and 10.  It was her faith that kept her and the rest of us going each day.  Throughout her husband's illness, she would daily post updates with scripture verses and encouragement.  On the day of the funeral she went up to say a few words - her strength through her faith in God helped her stay focused.  She has been a great support to her two boys by staying strong for them.  It will still be a rough road ahead for my dear sister and her boys, but I know that she will take each day at a time, with the Word of God as her guidance.  She was a stronghold for all of us and I admire her so much.  Thank you Vicki for being a wonderful example of a Christian woman for all of us - you are so beautiful!

Nominee #9

I was at a conference with a friend who works with my mother. As we were talking, she told me how she hoped to one day contribute as much to her profession as my mother has. You see, my mother is a teacher. Not only does she inspire me, but she also inspires countless young minds as well as her colleagues. I am endlessly inspired by her charisma, energy, dedication, generosity, warmth, compassion and strength. Suffice it to say that in growing up and seeing all of her wonderful traits, I too have become a teacher and strive each day to be half the woman that she is. Not only does she put her best foot forward in her career but time and again, I see how she 'just knows' when someone needs a pick-me-up.  Whether it's offering a cup of coffee or just lending her ear, my mom has a shining ability to let those around her know just how much she cares. Recently, I became a mother. When my son looks at me, I hope with all my heart that I can show him all that my mother has shown to me.

Nominee #10

My mother came from a poor family who lived on an island. Her father was in the Navy and away much of the time. At age 2, her mother died, so she was raised by her sister. As a teenager, she was abandoned with a baby to care for; working menial jobs to feed him & at times went without to buy baby food. She furthered her education at nights with a baby by her side. Years later she married a wonderful man; whom she is still with. Then came the teenager from hell, which I’m very sorry for; lucky for me she stayed strong & supportive. Then the worst happened; she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, but had chemotherapy and survived. My parents took in my nephew at age 6 to help my brother through a rough patch. She volunteered with fund raising for Sick Kids & adopts a family to help every time we go to Cuba. Her house is open to anyone or anything, including her stinky skunks. She is a great listener; always there to lend a helping hand. Supportive,  sincere & compassionate; my mother.