Why do I have to be ‘That Mom’
Why is it so hard to get services for our kiddos?
Why do I feel that I am the only one who sees him?
The real him. The fun, silly and loving him.
Why do I have to annoy the school constantly….reminding them of who he is and how amazing he is?
4 weeks into school and every week (sometimes daily) it’s been something.
He is not mean or aggressive….he is autistic and preverbal.
He doesn’t understand what THEY want.
He can’t communicate what HE wants.
I’m saying what I want but NO ONE is listening.
Why do I have to be the “crazy mom”?
Why do I have to ruffle everyone’s feathers and be labeled as “THAT mom”?
Because I have THAT kid.
THAT kid that deserves the world.
THAT kid that deserves a fighting chance.
THAT kid will move mountains with or without your help.
I have been on the internet all week researching, searching….praying for the right answer.
I’ve read all the blogs, found the ends of Facebook support groups and I’m defeated.
I’ve learned all my states laws, I know all the statistics but I still don’t have the answer.
What are we going to do now?
I set the meeting with the principal, requested an IEP meeting and even went to see his pediatrician for advice.
I still don’t feel like I have a handle on any of this.
I know it’s not easy on these teachers, I live it daily. I’m not attacking the teachers at all. I thank God everyday that there are people in this world that devote their lives to children.
These teachers deserve better supports too.
How can you teach a child who is not getting his sensory needs met or have unqualified supports in your room?
I’m frustrated with the system?
I don’t even know who to be mad at anymore.
I just wish some of them (whoever they are) understood the pain of this.
It’s emotionally exhausting.
Fighting for a sweet boy who can’t fight for himself. A little boy who is so misunderstood.
The fears we have, I can’t even put them into words.
Who cares if I have to show a little crazy? I sure don’t anymore. You can be respectful and still get your point across.
He is all that matters.
His well being and education matters.
His self esteem and happiness matters.
I can promise you one thing my sweet boy, THIS Mama will not go down without a fight.
I will always fight for you Buddy.
I will always be your knight in shining (bedazzled) armor.
I may not always understand who I’m fighting but I will do everything in my power to make sure that you have the right supports in place.
You are THAT amazing kid and I am THAT crazy Mama Bear.
We won’t stop.
Even if I fear my heart may break from another battle, I know that you will be right beside me with a smile to heal it.
It always does.
Written by, An Anonymous Mother
Finding Cooper’s Voice accepts guest posts from writers who choose to stay anonymous. I do this because so many of these topics are hard to talk about. The writers are worried about being shamed. They are worried about being judged. As a writer and mother I totally get it. But I also understand the importance of telling our stories. And this will ALWAYS be a safe place to do it.
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Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.
