My life was flipped upside down nearly 3 weeks ago when I became a hemophilia mom. To say that I was shocked is a true understatement. What I thought were little bruises because I had shoved my son Maddox into his bumbo seat, turned out to be a disorder that would affect my baby for life.
Nothing prepares you to be a mother. People tell you stories that you think might never affect you. But once motherhood happens to you, the word starts spinning faster then you can control.
Honesty is the best policy as a mother, and that’s why I’m willing to let people know that it’s not easy to swallow this diagnosis. It’s never easy to accept heartbreak as a mom. I should know; Â two years ago I lost my daughter, Sydney, from a sudden, unexpected death as a child, and I wake up daily knowing that she’s gone, and needing to carry on.
Although it’s not the same, I believe Maddox’s diagnosis is going to make me stronger as a mother. I have got to give my all for my little guy Maddox, and stand behind his big brother Logan (who is Sydney’s twin) to support him.
This past Mother’s Day I embraced the love of my two boys. I told myself that I will try to look past the bruises that appear quite frequently, and I am ready to embark on a journey that will get harder before it gets easier. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t in some denial about the whole thing. I’m trying so hard to have a positive outlook for my family, and others that are involved with a similar diagnosis. It’s not easy, but I’m trying.
I salute all the mothers out there, and especially hemophilia mothers, because it’s not easy. Being a mother isn’t easy, but it’s the best and hardest job in the world. I wouldn’t trade it for a thing.
Although Maddox is still young, I know that there will be setbacks, but I’m ready to teach him to do the best he can. I’m ready to be his biggest fan, and cheer him on. That’s what mothers do: support, love, never give up, and do everything we can for our babies.
Heather lives in Massachusetts with her husband, Shane, and her young sons, Logan and Maddox.
*Note: “Infusing Love: A Mom’s View,” is a blog collection of personal opinions and a representation of individuals experiences. While extensive efforts are made to ensure accuracy of the content, the blog entries do not represent HFA or its Board of Directors. The blog is also not intended to be construed as medical advice or the official opinion/position of HFA, its staff, or its Board of Directors. Readers are strongly encouraged to discuss their own medical treatment with their healthcare providers.
