MOMfound: Intentional Care

This is the moment Vera, mother of three, realizes she matters too. That her needs, dreams, and wellbeing are not just important—they’re worthy of time, care, and attention. She found her worth not just as a mother, but as a whole person.

There is no doubt that being a mother is the most difficult job in the world. I grew up watching my mother, my grandmother, and nearly every woman around me working tirelessly, day in and day out. They put their kids first, their husbands, extended family, and everyone else, always making sure everything was okay, even if it meant moving mountains. They never paused nor complained, and certainly never asked for anything in return.

Naturally, I followed in their footsteps. That was all I knew. I believed that being a good mother meant sacrificing everything,  my time, my energy, and often my dreams. I thought that putting myself last was part of the job. And for a long time, I did just that.

Vera began working with WINS Programs in 2015 and is now an integral member of the Fund Development team.

Over time, I began to understand something very important, something I wish I had known earlier. A mother is not just a caregiver, a protector, or a source of guidance. She is a human being, with her own needs, desires, and limits. The truth is motherhood can be all consuming. It’s a 24/7 role that stretches you mentally, physically, and emotionally. You give so much of yourself that if you are not careful there will be nothing left.

So, here is the thing I have come to realize. To keep showing up as the mother I want to be, I have to start by showing up for myself. It took me time and honestly a few burnouts to learn that taking care of my own mental health and wellbeing isn’t selfishness. It’s necessary. It’s how I keep going. Now, I make it a priority to remind myself every morning that I matter too. I make sure that I do things just for me. Something as simple as 30 minutes watching a show I love, getting a massage, or planning a solo coffee date. I have learnt to be okay with letting things go, even when they don’t go according to plan. And I have learnt to not be so hard on myself. Because what my kids truly need is not a perfect mother. they need a healthy and happy one.  A mother who is present, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too.

So, here is the thing I have come to realize. To keep showing up as the mother I want to be, I have to start by showing up for myself.

As we celebrate Mother’s Day in a few days, I want to remind every woman out there working hard to raise her children, build her community, and hold everything together: You matter. You deserve rest, joy, and fulfillment and the best gift you can give your family is YOU - healthy, and happy.

Happy Mother’s Day to every strong, loving, and powerful woman out there, moving mountains to raise a great generation and build a bright future.