EP 18 | THIS is what moms of children with special needs wish you KNEW. With Jessica Patay
All of us could agree from our motherhood journeys that it is true: we ARE stronger when we come together and realize we are not alone. Jessica Patay is leading a mission to bring moms of children with special needs into community where they feel validated and understood and where they can feel LOVED.
This interview reveals the heart of the mama of a special needs child herself and exactly what we need to know. Whether you are a parent of a child with any challenge, diagnosis, or disability, or not, this episode is going to touch you and help you grow stronger as a mom and as a FRIEND. And THAT is what Families That Stick Togather wants to inspire.
Jessica’s own story as a special needs Mom began in 2003 when her second son was born and diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Prader Willi Syndrome.
She took the lessons learned from her journey of motherhood and launched the organization “We Are Brave Together” in 2017 to build community around moms and families in the special needs community. The moms’ support groups began in California and expanded across the United States at the beginning of 2020. If you would like to join or are interested in bringing it to your area, visit wearebravetogether.com.
HIGHLIGHTS from our conversation:
The need for community: “[The gifts we have to share with other women from our experiences] are invaluable. We learn from each other and we are stronger when we come together and realize we are not alone.” Jessica
Compassion towards these moms: It’s like anything in life, if you don’t live it daily, you don’t know what other people are going through or what they need.
The daily life of a mom of a child with special needs: “The stress families go through is exponential and it’s daily.” Jessica
“I am grateful that I am a better, deeper, more compassionate human being….because of Ryan…..and…..it’s really hard.” Jessica
Respite: Moms are desperate for rest. Indeed all moms are, but the moms of children with any challenge, diagnosis, or disability are especially in need of that relief. Reach out to your friends and offer to bring dinner, let them have a date night out while you babysit, let her workout or go for a walk while you sit with the children, find out who you can serve in your community.
Be aware: There is a large need for a lot of people to reach out and help not only the children, but the ADULTS with special needs. There is a whole population that deserves to feel purposeful, and feel integrity, and feel taken care of. Today 1 out of 5 children in the United States have a health care need.
Join the online community and sign up for the We Are Brave Together newsletter at www.wearebravetogether.com.