Ben, a young man who overcame a difficult childhood, thanks his foster mom, "Mom Cat," for changing his life. Ben's father was in and out of prison, and his mother struggled with mental illness, leading to Ben being in and out of foster care. However, when Ben met Mom Cat, she took him in and provided him with love, support, and stability. Ben credits Mom Cat with helping him become the man he is today and expresses his gratitude to her in a heartfelt speech. He also announces that he has started a scholarship in her name through his foundation, "Be the Ray Foundation." Ben's fiancée, Carly, also thanks Mom Cat for raising Ben to be the man she loves.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Ben's father was in and out of federal prison during his childhood.
2. Ben's mother was diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia at a young age.
3. Ben was taken away from his mother at six months old and placed in foster care.
4. Ben's mother lost him again multiple times due to mental breakdowns.
5. Ben was raised by a woman he calls "Mom Cat," who took him in and provided for him.
6. Ben's biological mother struggled with mental illness, verbal abuse, domestic violence, and drugs.
7. Ben found solace in playing basketball, which became a source of comfort for him.
8. Mom Cat took Ben in and treated him like her own son, providing for his needs and showing him love.
9. Ben's relationship with Mom Cat changed his life and helped him feel loved and valued.
10. Ben is now engaged to be married to a woman named Carly.
11. Carly admires Ben for his resilience and strength in overcoming his difficult childhood.
12. Mom Cat is a kind and caring person who helped raise Ben and showed him what family is about.
13. Ben started a foundation called "Be the Ray Foundation" to help young boys with similar stories to his own.
14. Ben established a scholarship in Mom Cat's name to honor her impact on his life.