María Eugenia Díaz Romero

María Eugenia Díaz Romero was a beloved Costa Rican matriarch, best known as the mother of astronaut Franklin Chang. Born in 1926, she dedicated her life to her family and was a source of inspiration and strength for her son. Throughout his career, she expressed deep pride in his achievements, particularly during his space missions, which she followed with both pride and anxiety. In interviews, she shared her emotional journey as a mother of an astronaut, recalling her fears during launches and the joy she felt when her son returned safely. María Eugenia's warmth and positivity were evident in her interactions, and she was remembered for her infectious smile and the unconditional love she showed her family. She passed away at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience.