The Unseen Battles: My Path Through Postpartum Challenges
The Unpredictable Road of Motherhood
Life, especially as a mother, is full of unexpected challenges. Sometimes these challenges can shake us to our core and shatter the foundation we stood upon. Join me as I share my ongoing journey through some of life’s toughest moments, in hopes of connecting with and supporting other mothers in the New Orleans area who might be on similar paths.
Fertility Struggles: The Beginning of an Unexpected Path
Before the whirlwind of having three children in 18 months, my journey into motherhood started with heartache and uncertainty. Initially, I faced the devastating news that I might never conceive naturally and was advised to consider egg donors. Defying expectations, this period of struggle and hope eventually led to the birth of my first daughter, followed surprisingly and swiftly by my twins.
A Traumatic Journey Begins
My journey into motherhood took a dramatic turn with the birth of my twins. This experience, starkly different from my first, was fraught with fear and uncertainty. The chaotic series of events that happened in the span of minutes during Baby B’s delivery, the horrors of which I will spare you the wrenching details, left deep emotional and physical scars. The subsequent diagnosis of sensory processing disorder at only 8 months old in Baby B, as we pleaded and fought for help constantly to understand what was wrong with her, pushed me into an abyss of postpartum despair so profound that I found myself begging my husband to let me leave her at the fire station, a stark reflection of the unbearable pain and helplessness I felt.
The Struggle: Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
In the wake of these challenges, it should not be a surprise to anyone reading, I found myself grappling with the depths of postpartum depression and anxiety. It was a battle that consumed me daily, making even the simplest tasks seem insurmountable. This period was one of the darkest in my life, and it was during this time that I am blessed to have support in my life that helped me realize the need to seek help.
The Revelation: My Own Battles with ADHD and Self-Medication
As I reached out for support, I was also diagnosed with ADHD, a discovery that shed light on many of my life-long struggles. I also came to the awakening that I had been self-medicating with alcohol. This awareness was a crucial step in my journey, as confronting these truths allowed me to start working towards genuine healing.
The Path Forward: Resilience in Progress
Resilience for me is not a destination but a continuous process. Through therapy, support groups, and a lot of self-reflection, I am slowly rebuilding my life. It’s a path marked with setbacks and victories, and through it all, I am learning the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and practicing forgiveness – both towards myself and others.
A Message to Other Mothers
To any mother reading this, know that it’s okay not to have all the answers and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Our journeys might be filled with unexpected challenges, but they also brim with possibilities for growth and understanding. You are stronger than you realize, and your experiences do not define your future. I truly believe we can turn any stigma into a superpower.
Conclusion: In Gratitude and Solidarity
As I navigate this ongoing journey, I am filled with gratitude for the strength I am discovering within myself and the support I’ve received from others. My hope is that by sharing my story, I can offer a sense of companionship and hope to other mothers in the New Orleans area who might be silently facing their own battles. Remember, you are not alone, and there is a community here ready to support you. Together, let’s embrace our challenges and work towards a future filled with hope and understanding.
About The Author
Monica Roerig Olano
Monica brings to the table a dynamic 15-year background in corporate America, a journey she paused to embrace the whirlwind of motherhood, welcoming three children within an 18-month span. This life-altering experience led her to step away from the traditional corporate path and forge a new one on her own terms. Today, Monica is the proud founder of a digital strategy consulting company, combining her extensive professional expertise with her personal passion for innovation and strategy.
Her most cherished project is her podcast, “Mommy’s New Medicine,” a heartfelt initiative born from her desire to share her story and connect with other women. Through this platform, Monica seeks to empower and inspire, holding true to her belief that every setback can be a stepping stone to success. Her podcast serves as a beacon, transforming stigmas into superpowers, and highlighting the resilience and strength in every mother’s journey. Monica’s mission is to demonstrate that it is entirely possible to redefine success on one’s own terms, making her a source of inspiration and empowerment for many. www.mommysnewmedicine.com
Thank you for everyone that took the time to read this. Sharing this stigma and battle was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but I want to create a community for others to feel safe and secure in sharing their journeys. Feel free to reach out with any questions or comments you may have. Happy to help!