Motherhood & Disability: Why CP Makes Me a Better Mom

As a little girl, I had a picture-perfect image of motherhood. I saw moms on TV and in my own life who could do it all — and truthfully — that was all I knew. I was determined to make that my reality for the sake of my kids, but no matter how much I yearned for a challenge-free motherhood experience, that was not a life I could give them. From childhood, cerebral palsy impacted the muscles in my legs, causing stiff, jerky movements that I couldn’t always control. I watched my fantasy of motherhood crumble. Soon I was thrown into the trenches of newborn life while facing a disability I had tried my best to avoid and could no longer escape. But now, as a mom of two beautiful little girls two years into motherhood, I can confidently say my kids aren’t missing out. Being disabled makes me a better mom, and I’m here to share a few reasons why.

Adaptability Has Always Been a Part of My Life

Despite the assumption that motherhood is easy, it’s anything but. As any mom knows, raising little ones will throw curveballs even the most seasoned moms are constantly learning. But here’s the thing. Living with cerebral palsy in a world designed for “able-bodied” people has taught me to adapt, start from scratch, and figure out how to make my circumstances work best for my husband and our family.

When my daughter's pediatrician suggested supplementing with formula to increase her weight, I understood switching to a new feeding plan would be challenging. However, at this point in my life, I was very familiar with making adjustments for everyday life, and I knew we would overcome any obstacle thrown our way.

I’ve Learned the Value of Patience, Determination, & Refusing to Give Up

When you live in a body that operates a little differently, patience is key for navigating life — especially when you’re a mom. I remember searching for a lightweight double stroller I could easily lift, put together, and push on my own. After practicing with the stroller till my arms were tired and sore, I finally mustered up the courage to meet a friend for breakfast. Over time, I’ve accepted that certain tasks that take others minutes may take me much longer. Instead of beating myself up, I’ve used my frustration to stay motivated and given myself grace in areas I can’t control. Learning my limits has also helped me extend more compassion to my daughters as they’re learning and growing and becoming their own people.

I Celebrate Every Milestone

When extra effort is required to accomplish even the simplest of tasks, you learn to celebrate every milestone, big or small. As a new parent, my oldest daughter and I experienced all of her firsts as our firsts. Yet I had my own quiet list of firsts — like the first time I changed the crib sheets solo. I had to sit to avoid losing my balance, but I completed it all the same.

Motherhood doesn’t look like I thought it would—and honestly, I’m grateful for that. My disability has shaped me into a more intentional, present, and resilient mom than I ever imagined I could be. My girls may not have a mom who can run around the yard or carry them up the stairs every time they ask, but they do have a mom who listens, loves them fiercely, and shows up every single day. And that? That’s more than enough.

If this resonated with you, I’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment or share this with a fellow mama who could use the reminder: we’re doing just fine.