Solomea's story begins in Drohobych, a city in the south of Lviv Oblast, Ukraine. At a young age, Solomea lost her hearing mainly because of two illnesses, Menangitis and Scarlett Fever. At the time, she was luckily old enough that she had learned to speak and read, so she adapted by learning how to read lips. 

Andy tells this heartwarming story of his mother's love  in his latest book, "A Promise Kept: A Tribute To A Mother's Love."  And Andy didn't know any of his mother's background and experiences until he was fifty years old. And he kept his promise to his mother to help others that were in need and indeed he has.

Solomea was a young child when she and her family witnessed the "Nazi occupation of Poland and then the Soviet occupation of Western Ukraine," explains Mr. Semotiuk. His mom, was one of the first refugees to flee war torn Europe to Immigrate to North America.

A life filled with challenges, loss of love, family and yet she never gave up. Years later, as a single mother, she was able to put her son through law school. Andy explains, "I watched my mother put me through law school on her hands and knees, washing floors." 

Mother and son had a very special bond. I don't think that a day goes by that Andy doesn't think and thank his mother for all that she's taught him and all that she did for him.

Andy Semotiuk has also written a book entitled, "Solomea." Solomea, his great Aunt, was his grandmother's sister.  She was also a very,  successful leading dramatic soprano opera singer, but unfortunately WWII got in the way of her lengthy career. She performed with Enrico Caruso, Arturo Toscanini, Giacomo Puccini

There is so much more to this story. I hope you enjoy the listen. I have so much respect for Solomea, Andy's mother. She endured so much, yet she always landed on her feet. She connected with wonderful women that helped her along this complicated and challenging journey. 

Imagine immigrating to a new, unknown country, not speaking the language, not being able to hear, having no money or family. And yet Solomea prevailed and raised a wonderful son who is happily helping others in need of legal immigration services.

It was a pleasure to speak with Paul and share this eye opening story of a young woman who wasn't afraid to step out alone.

By the age of nine, Andy still never knew who his biological father was. Yet it was an honor for Andy to take the sir name of the gentleman who Andy referred to as his "grandfather/grandpa," who's name was William Semotiuk. 

Law firm website:https://pacelawfirm.com
*Personal legal website:https://myworkvisa.com
*LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andysemotiuk/
Instagram:https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Andy+Semotiuk
X.Com:https://www.X.Com/ASemotiuk
*Facebook personal:https://www.facebook.com/asemotiuk/
Facebook business:https://www.facebook.com/myworkvisa
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Andy+Semotiuk
IMDB:https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14878772/
*Amazon:https://www.buysolomeabook.com/

"Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and  answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.

Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:

SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024

“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”

Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee.  This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.

Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths.

This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in our society.  Whether your mother influenced you positively or you thrived despite challenges, this show resonates deeply.

I highly recommend “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast for its insightful, heartfelt and enriching content.

Gina Kunadian

"Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In 2018/2019, in getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal stories of their relationship with their mother, for better or worse and what they learned from that maternal relationship. 

Some of my guests include Nationally and Internationally recognized authors, Journalists, Columbia University Professors, Health Practitioners, Scientists, Artists, Attorneys, Baritone Singer, Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist, Activists, Freighter Sea Captain, Film Production Manager, Professor of Writing Montclair State University, Attorney and family advocate @CUNY Law; NYC First Responder/NYC Firefighter, Child and Adult Special Needs Activist,  Property Manager, Chefs, Self Help Advocates, therapists and so many more talented and insightful women and men.

Jackie has worked in the broadcasting industry for over four decades. She has interviewed  many fascinating people including musicians, celebrities, authors, activists, entrepreneurs, politicians and more.

A big thank you goes to Ricky Soto, NYC based Graphic Designer, who created the logo for "Should Have Listened To My Mother".

Check out our website for more background information: https://www.jackietantillo.com/

Or more demos of what's to come at https://soundcloud.com/jackie-tantillo

Link to website and show notes: https://shltmm.simplecast.com/

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