Sometimes I struggle to see “normal” moms struggle. Its hard not to look and think, “That is the hardest part of your day? Could you even survive the hardest parts of my day?” I often undermine the challenge of having a child with exceptional medical needs or precautions. Most days are so very tiring worrying about Jocelyn, checking stats, checking blood sugars, hoping today is the day she figures out how to eat by mouth (cause thats a thing believe it or not), making sure her tube feedings are right, extra steps to prevent vomiting, hoping this week she continues to gain weight. On top of that I have to find the balance of allowing her twin Lucy to grow independently with Jocelyn having the freedom to grow independently as well (that is also a concern with twins). 

Here’s why I down play how tough the day to day can be. Because as a mom, any mom, you always do the best for your kids no matter what. So when people say, “I don’t know how you do it?” Sure maybe you can’t imagine but if you were in my shoes I know you would find a way, it may be different then mine but you make things work for your kids. Truth is I’m jealous other moms get normal struggles about listening or cooperation, or even how smart their child is, or what schools are the best. To worry about laundry and what time dance or soccer practice will be the next day. While I sit here and plan our months around doctors appointments, surgeries to come, and god forbid the back up plans to the back up plans if Jocelyn’s condition takes an unexpected turn. For each event planned I know where all the local peds. Hospitals are and how long the drive would be. I have our cardiologist’s cell number for any emergency needs, cause well I’m paranoid and she gets it.

But I’m working on it, I’m working on understanding everyone’s parenting experience is meant to be very different. Their struggles may seem silly to me or even something to be envious of, are still very important and monumental to them. Its not about what the struggle is, it’s how important the struggle is to you. Im learning life yields a different path for everyone. 

Please to any parent reading this know whatever your child’s needs are I’m going to support your struggle. My internal feelings don’t trump my ability to look beyond and see amazing mothers doing amazing things for their kids everyday. 

We have some fun events coming up and new adventures I can’t wait to share. Until then have fun, be kind and love your little ones.