Dear Special Needs Mom

A very dear friend of mine, that I've known since birth, sent me this a couple months ago and it hit home. We don't talk often or are able to see each other as much as I would like, but even though we are hundreds of miles apart, I know she is still there. It reminded me that even though people may not understand our situation fully, they are still supportive in any way they can and sometimes just knowing that is enough. Thank you, Kelly! 

So you all you special needs mama's out there, whatever that looks like, this is for you :)

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Dear special needs mom,

I want you to know that I see you.

I see you running your child to therapy when your friends are running their kids to Little League.

I see you slipping out the of conversation when your friends are all chiming in about milestones and test grades.

I see you juggling appointments and meetings, always making sure you do the best for your child.

I see you sitting at your computer for hours researching what your child needs.

I see you cringe when people whine about the petty things that pale in comparison to your day.

I see you spread thin, but still going the extra mile for your family, and managing to do it with a smile.

I see you digging for depths of strength you never dreamed you had.

I see you showing appreciation to the teachers, therapists and medical professionals who serve your child with you.

I see you reluctantly rising early in the morning to do it all again after another chaotic night.

I see you when you’re hanging on to the end of your rope for dear life.

I know you feel invisible, like nobody notices any of it. But I want you to know I notice you. I see you in the trenches, relentlessly pushing onward. I see you keep choosing to do everything in your power to give your child the best possible care at home, in school, at therapy, and the doctor. What you’re doing matters. It’s worth it. On those days when you wonder if you can do it another minute, I want you to know that I see you. I want you to know that you’re beautiful. I want you to know that it’s worth it. I want you to know that you aren’t alone. I want you to know that love is what matters most, and that you have that nailed.

And on those days when you have breakthroughs, those times when the hard work pays off and success is yours to cherish, I see you then, too, and I am proud of you.

Whichever day today is, you’re worthy, you’re good, and I see you.

Credit to: Her View From Home Blog

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Some days are hard. No, most days are hard. It can seem like groundhog day in our house. It's a constant struggle juggling all of Henry's needs, appts, care, etc. on top of managing the household, caring for two other kids, finding time to work on my marriage, working a full-time job, and somewhere in there finding time for myself. Obviously, that last one tends to fall off the list pretty often. 

My mind is running all the time to figure out what Henry needs. What else I can be doing for him, what have I not tried, what other specialists can he see. Is he uncomfortable, is he healthy, do I have enough food for him. 

Guilting myself for not making more time, doing more therapy, being more consistent with things. Why I can't make him happy more often, what else can I be doing. 

It's a lonely place to be, but I am reminded often by my family and friends, that I am not alone. And I see you and appreciate you more than you know. 

I don't reach out as much, I don't make the effort as much, yet another guilt I put on myself, but I've worked hard to build strong relationships that don't need to be nurtured daily. I have a tribe that will be with me always, no matter the distance.