Connect What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

The most rewarding part of being a mom for me is being able to watch my kids grow up. I lost my mother when I was 14 to cancer. She was my best friend. Having to raise my kids without her support has been such a tough challenge, especially navigating the special needs world. Nevertheless I am blessed to get to watch them grow & be a part of every milestone. They light up my world & fill me with love on days I feel I can’t go on. Every moment spent with them I cherish & hold close to my heart.

What is one memory of your kids that you will never forget?

One of the greatest memories I will never forget is one with my son Emmitt, he is autistic & nonverbal.. I will never forget the day I heard him say I love you for the first time! It was a celebration for us at home as a family. We had been waiting 6 years to hear that! My daughter is an amazing sister she celebrates her brother and encourages him despite being younger than he is, she is his best friend in a world where special needs kids tend to be excluded.

What would you do with $20,000?

I would save and add it towards a down payment for a house. I live in an apartment at the moment and my goal is to have a backyard where I can put a swing set & a little sandbox for my kids. My son has sensory overload and meltdowns and a lot of times misses out on fun events, having a space where he can play safely and still enjoy the outside environment would be amazing. It would be a game changer, it would improve our daily routine and bring peace to our lives as a whole.