Who is Birdie M. Scott from Monster: The Autobiography of an L.A. Gang Member and what is their importance?

Birdie M. Scott is Kody's mother. Birdie seems able to only watch as Kody falls deeper into the gang mentality. Though their relationship deteriorates seriously, Kody insists on going home rather than to the hospital after having been shot in the back. His mother shows little concern, instead berating him for being in the situation that allowed him to be shot for the second time.