# identity

As a mother, I stand with ALL children. There is literally no justification for even one child to have to suffer, live in fear, or die in violence.

I spent most of my life thinking I was fine - independent, strong, so accepting of my mom's "condition." When I became a mother and realized that I had never had and would never have a mother I could rely on, it broke me. Pain must be seen and held - with love. Then, space is created for healing.

This is a reflection of the painful transition period of becoming a mother. I spent years feeling like I was neither here nor there, one foot in/one foot out, which is an impossible way to move through life. As I started to accept myself, I realized there was a lot of joy to uncover.

Winnie's warrior spirit persists as she navigates the highs and inevitable lows of parenting. Having a neurodivergent child, she especially recognizes how essential it is that she take care of herself and lean on her support system.