Mom's tear-jerking letter to fellow special needs parents who feel 'invisible' is a must-read

Parenting is a strenuous task as is. When it comes to special needs children, parenting for them is as uniquely challenging as it is rewarding. Having to plan things to cater to the needs of one’s child while eliminating stereotypical views of society can be tough. A mom and writer, Alethea Jo, penned a touching note for fellow special needs parents, lauding them for all the silent battles and unseen trials they’ve emerged from. Her words are a much-needed tearful reminder for strong fathers and mothers wanting nothing but the best for their children. 

The mom addressed the message to every special needs mom out there and assured them that she sees them and notices every extra mile they go. Jo then cited several instances that are hard for special needs parents to go through but they persist anyway. “I  see you running your child to therapy when your friends are running their kids to Little League. I see you slipping out of the conversation when your friends are all chiming in about milestones and test grades. I see you juggling appointments and meetings, always making sure you do the best for your child,” she wrote. Right from researching for hours on end about what could be the best for their child and executing it, Jo pointed out that it is a job worth commending. The mom highlighted how every task is a struggle but it is something only resilient people can manage.

Jo also noted that despite the flaws and weaknesses that come with this unique parenting journey, many still pick themselves up and carry on day after day. “I see you cringe when people whine about the petty things that are pale in comparison to your day. I see you spread thin but still going the extra mile for your family, and managing to do it with a smile,” Jo wrote. Jo recalled how raising a special needs child requires sacrifice, empathy, and an added dose of effort. Jo exclaimed, “I see you digging for depths of strength you never dreamed you had. I see you showing appreciation to the teachers, therapists and medical professionals who serve your child with you. I see you reluctantly rising early in the morning to do it all again after another chaotic night.”

She added that she understands and sees the struggle of “hanging on to the end of your rope for dear life.” The mom emphasized with every other special needs parent. She acknowledged that though it may go unnoticed and parents may feel “invisible,” their silent pleas and hopes are heard by every other special needs parent. “I see you in the trenches, relentlessly pushing onward. I see you keep choosing to do everything in your power to give your child the best possible care at home, in school, at therapy, and at the doctor. What you’re doing matters. It’s worth it,” Jo remarked. She boosted the parents saying that on days it feels like they can’t carry on, even for another minute, their resilience will help break through. “And those times when the hard work pays off and success is yours to cherish, I see you then too, and I am proud of you,” she concluded.