Motherhood
When I was ready to give birth to my child, I was fully prepared for what was to come.
I had a very thought-out plan: breastfeeding for a year, no pacifiers, we'll sleep train when it's right, no visitors for a month, etc.
I wasn't expecting to have a child that had to be in the NICU, little less that she was going to be born hard-of-hearing....
I was confused, upset, and unfortunately mad, because why can't things ever go my way. "Why must things always go bad for me?"
When the Dr's came in & told me she was deaf, I sat in disbelief... but with the right resources and help that New Mexico offers parents, I was directed to the right path.
We now have a wonderful group that supports my family in this journey. I'm talking not only about her Pediatrician, but the home health nurse that helped us after the NICU stay, our two ASL mentors who teach us how to communicate with our baby, her Audiologist to make sure her hearing aids are working correctly for my child, her speech pathologist & therapist that encourage her to use her beautiful voice, & her developmental therapist to make sure that she's not falling behind.
We are now a trilingual household. We communicate in English, Spanish, & now American Sign Language.
I realized things didn't go bad for me, they went exactly how the universe had it planned for me.
I was given a beautiful child who needed me as much as I needed her. ❤️
#GirlTalk #lemon8challenge #embracevulnerability #deafawareness #motherhood
Motherhood can take many unexpected turns, demanding adaptability and resilience from parents. In recent years, more families are discovering the need to navigate complex challenges, including giving birth in a NICU or raising a child with hearing impairments. Special attention must be paid to the resources available for such situations. For instance, early intervention programs can significantly assist parents in managing developmental needs and securing necessary services. Understanding the importance of a support network cannot be understated. From pediatricians and audiologists to speech pathologists, each professional plays a crucial role in ensuring the child’s healthy development. Additionally, utilizing American Sign Language (ASL) and fostering a multilingual household can enrich cognitive growth and enhance communication within families. For parents dealing with similar circumstances, local and online communities offer essential emotional support and practical advice. Engaging with other parents through forums like GirlTalk or participating in community events focused on deaf awareness can provide shared experiences and valuable insights. Embracing vulnerability in these discussions not only helps in gaining new perspectives but also strengthens the bond within the family. As each journey is unique, reflecting on personal expectations while remaining open to the unfolding path can be transformative. The narrative of motherhood isn't solely about adhering to plans; it often requires adaptability, love, and the courage to ask for help. With the right mindset and adequate support, parents can thrive alongside their children, paving the way for remarkable growth and mutual understanding.
