Dear Moms,

The role of a mother is unmatched – you undoubtedly support your family and children through all triumphs, challenges, tribulations, good days, bad days, and regular days in between. All mothers are special, but we recognize that special needs mothers are different.

For your children with special needs, you are more than a mom. You are a therapist, a teacher, a nurse, an advocate, a cheerleader, and more. Now more than ever, as our country is navigating a “new normal” as a result of a global pandemic, these daily roles have been amplified as schools and therapy offices are closed. Without much notice or choice, you’ve gone from part- to full-time when it comes to helping with online schooling, participating in virtual therapy appointments, and helping your child navigate through this transition. We see you – we know you’re tired, we know you’re frustrated, we know you’re concerned. But we also know you won’t give up.

Looking back through your unique journey with your children, you’ve survived days you never thought you would get through. You’ve also celebrated milestones you never thought you’d reach, as well as victories big and small. For your family, special isn’t necessarily special … it’s the norm. You have learned to look past a diagnosis and see only your wonderful child. Your family has its own goals and milestones that are worked toward and celebrated with the aid of your strength, determination, and support every step of the way. Some mothers may take for granted the milestones you hope your child will one day reach. Others might be inconvenienced when their babysitter isn’t available, but will never know how difficult it can be to find a sitter who is equipped to care for a child with special needs. A mother may wonder if her child is part of the popular crowd at school, but you find yourself wondering if your child will be able to form relationships and make friends. Your family and your child have some unique considerations, but they also have a fierce, resilient mother leading the way. Being a special needs mom on Mother’s Day means reflecting on how far you’ve come, and looking ahead to how far you can go because of your willingness, tenacity, and drive to keep moving forward.

As a mother, you should be celebrated, honored, and recognized not only on Mother’s Day, but all year long. Maybe your Mother’s Day wish is for a good bottle of wine; a shower or bath without interruption; a beautiful bouquet of springtime flowers; a day off from the normal grind; time to finish a good book; or a meal prepared by someone other than yourself. But maybe your wish not only for Mother’s Day, but every day, is no phone calls from doctors or therapists; less time spent in hospital rooms; a day without tantrums; the inclusion of your child; a cure for an illness or disorder; or a verbal “I love you, Mom” or “thank you, Mom.” No matter what you wish for, we hope your day is full of so much love.

Through the day to day routine, you may feel as though you are lost, forgotten, alone, or under-appreciated. We’re here to let you know that’s far from the truth – we are here for you. For 15 years we have walked alongside mothers like you and are continually amazed by you and all you have accomplished. Your achievements are our achievements, and your worries are our worries. We are so proud to have incredible mothers like you in our W.A.G.S. 4 Kids Family Tree. Thank you for inviting us into your life and allowing us to become part of your family.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Love,

W.A.G.S. 4 Kids