Last Mother’s Day, I found myself in a place of profound sadness and despair. The night before Mother’s Day, our son experienced a seizure, and despite administering his rescue medication, it failed to bring relief, resulting in a grand mal seizure, the most severe I had ever witnessed. We had no choice but to call 911, spending the night in the ER, where he remained under observation on Mother’s Day. My heartache stemmed not from the occasion itself, but from witnessing my son’s suffering, feeling utterly powerless. As his mother, my instinct to protect him felt futile, and I couldn’t help but wonder about his future, about the constant care he might require, and if a cure for epilepsy would ever be found. These thoughts consumed me as I watched him sleep peacefully under sedation.

Fast forward to this Mother’s Day in 2024, and my heart overflows with gratitude and hope. Despite a seizure a few days prior, instead of succumbing to sadness, I found myself overwhelmed with gratitude. Grateful for the efficacy of his rescue medication, for the unwavering support of his grandmother, for the flexibility of working from home to care for him, for the dedication of his behavior therapist, and for the enriching experience of his online schooling. But above all, I am grateful for him—for his innocence, his humor, his affection, and the joy he brings into our lives. He is a blessing beyond measure.

As I watched him sing in the children’s choir at church on this Mother’s Day, my heart swelled with love and pride. He has enriched my life in ways I never imagined. Initially, I embarked on this journey with the intent of teaching and guiding him, yet he has become my greatest teacher. Through him, I’ve learned to embrace alternative forms of education, to cultivate patience, and to understand that life’s journey is a marathon, not a sprint.

Witnessing his growth from a toddler unable to walk or speak to a vibrant, active boy fills me with immense gratitude for the journey we share. His progress has been gradual, requiring perseverance and dedication, but the rewards are immeasurable.

On this Mother’s Day, I extend my heartfelt wishes for progress and growth on your own journey.

With much love and respect,

Shelly-Ann