By Nadine Briggs
When my daughter, Megan, was born nearly 20 years ago, the sheer magnitude of her vulnerability forever changed me as a person. I certainly always had my “feisty” side but when it came to protecting Megan, a whole new level of feisty emerged. It is interesting to me now, as I look back at my young mother’s face in this photo, to see the determination that I felt. It is written all over me.
On this Mother’s Day, I want to salute all those mothers who perform herculean acts for the sake of their children. I see these mothers every day and I am in awe of their determination and strength. Even when exhausted from the everyday seemingly uphill battle, they will never stop protecting their vulnerable children. And even though mine is now 19, neither will I.
Determined
Determined upon her birth to do everything in my power to protect my vulnerable child.
Determined to educate the world about what Down syndrome is and what it isn’t.
Determined to revel in each milestone before beginning work on the next one.
Determined to laugh at things that are truly ridiculous.
Determined to stop use of the r-word for everyone who uses it. And I mean everyone. With no regrets.
Determined not to cry during IEP meetings as I try to convince administrators to provide what I know my child needs. And when they don’t.
Determined to cultivate a strong sibling relationship even though one child needs more from me.
Determined to not lose myself in all the parenting and maintain my own friendships.
Determined to figure out a way for my child to participate in dance class or sports just like everyone else.
Determined to not show anger when a 6 year old behind me at the recital says “hey look! There’s a handicapped girl on stage!”
Determined to find the little girl afterwards and introduce her to Megan to dispel whatever her young mind considers “handicapped”.
Determined to consider all options, think outside the box, and ultimately figure it out.
Determined to make sure the bad teachers know how vigilant I am and the good teachers know how much I appreciate them. And appreciate is not a strong enough word. They allowed me to relax a little and THAT is priceless.
Determined to handle all the stares, comments and insulting questions with poise and grace.
Determined to not show the fear I felt during the ambulance ride with a frightened child on a morphine drip.
Determined to show everyone an outer bravery that I wished I had really felt.
Determined to forgive myself for all the many mistakes I made.
Determined to hold my kids tight this Mother’s Day and enjoy how much they appreciate my determination.
