Finding Moments of Joy

In honor of Mother’s Day, my hometown magazine has honored me with the cover and a feature in the May 2026 issue. We appreciate the local love. Thank you, Kris Pepper and Ridgewood & Ho-Ho-Kus Magazine. Mom’s Irish eyes are smiling. To read the full article, click here.

Here’s an excerpt:

When Mark Porro became the primary caregiver for his nearly 90-year-old mother, Genevieve, in 2011, he stepped into a role still more commonly associated with women. He didn’t see himself as exceptional; he simply saw himself fulfilling a much-needed role for his family—and his dear mother.

“Yes, the role of caregiver generally falls on the women of the family, but the men are catching up,” he says. “I didn’t think too much about the distinction, nor did I let it affect me. Many thought I was a hero. I didn’t agree. To me, this was how our parents raised us. It was the right thing to do.”

Determined to care for her as fully and respectfully as possible, he immersed himself in learning. “I wanted to learn how to best take care of her for as long as she wanted to be here, days, weeks, or months,” he says. “So, I spent a lot of time with the hospice nurses who taught me the tips and tricks of eldercare. I knew a bit of what I was getting into.”

Upon making the decision—supported by his siblings and his mother—there was no half-measure. “Once I decided to move back to take this on full-time, I jumped in 100%.”

Drawing on his background as an actor, Porro learned to manage his own emotions so as not to burden his mother. “Yes, I’m still her son, but I’m also her caregiver, and I didn’t want my mother to feel guilty about me taking on this role. I did my best to keep my discomfort and my emotions out of the room.” To read the full article, click here.

If you yearn to learn more about Mark Steven Porro’s multi-award winning memoir, click here. 

Mother’s Day Sale

Genevieve always loved a good sale. And though she’ll miss this one, you don’t have to. In honor of all mothers this Mother’s Day, “A Cup of Tea on the Commode” eBook is just $4.99. You’ll laugh out loud. You’ll cry out loud. (Sorry for the crying part). To purchase, click here. 

#Humor #Memoir #eldercare #acupofteaonthecommode #Ridgewood&Ho-Ho-KusMagazine @ridgewoodmag