Maria's story:
In 2019, I faced a challenging motherhood journey when I fell pregnant with twins.
My pregnancy became complicated — I was diagnosed with an incompetent cervix and uterus issues that made my prognosis very uncertain. The chances of my babies being born healthy were very low. I spent three months in hospital on complete bed rest, feeling lonely, afraid, and anxious, far from my hometown, family, and closest friends.
"I spent three months in hospital on complete bed rest, feeling lonely, afraid, and anxious, far from my hometown, family, and closest friends."
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My days in the hospital were long and used to feel very lonely. I cherished the little moments of chatting with nurses or having visitors. One day, I remembered a friend mentioning the Caring Mums organisation and their postnatal support. Although it wasn’t meant for women still pregnant, I decided to reach out, hoping they could make an exception. I longed for someone who would listen without judgment, someone experienced in motherhood who could simply sit beside me and understand.
"I looked forward to her weekly visits—they became my safe space to release emotions."
That’s exactly what I found in my Caring Mum, Emily. From her first visit, I felt appreciated, validated, and less alone. I looked forward to her weekly visits—they became my safe space to release emotions. Thankfully, my sons Max and Jonas were born healthy. Emily stood by me during pregnancy, through my sons’ NICU journey, and throughout my first year of motherhood, always listening, encouraging, and reassuring me. She was an angel who helped me find strength to face the challenges of being a first-time mum.
Today, my boys are six years old, and I’ve joined the Caring Mums program as a volunteer. Having experienced its incredible impact firsthand, I now want to give back and support other mums who, like me in 2019, need a compassionate hand to help them navigate early motherhood.
"Today, my boys are six years old, and I’ve joined the Caring Mums program as a volunteer."
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Learn more about community
Sometimes, the best support comes from someone who truly understands. A peer-to-peer connection is a powerful way to get exactly what you need: a direct link with someone who has been there. It’s a safe space where you can share your story without judgment and find comfort in knowing you're not alone.
- The power of connection: Peer support can help you feel understood in a way that nothing else can. It reduces feelings of isolation and offers practical advice from a lived experience.
- Finding the right fit: This kind of support comes in many forms—from structured groups to casual meet-ups and online communities. It's about finding the right fit for you, so you can get what you need, when you need it.
- Your community is waiting: Reaching out to a peer is a brave and powerful step toward healing. Your community of support is ready to welcome you.
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