When I became pregnant in 2014, I was beyond excited to become a Mom. Time passes so slowly when your waiting with extreme anticipation. People told me things like sleep now and your life is going to be changed forever. But, no one told me how much I was going to love my baby. Nothing and no one can prepare you for those first seconds in the delivery room when you see your baby for the very first time. Time stands still as you examine every finger and toe, and realize their is nothing more exquisite or perfect than your child. There are rare times in life when you may witness magic on earth and that moment is definitely one of those times.

On April 12, 2015 at 12:11pm I embarked on the greatest journey with purpose of my life-to be Stalen’s Mom. I believe that everything happens for a reason and that many of my experiences and education up until that point were all foreshadowing and necessary for the challenge of motherhood that stood before me.

Yet, despite all of those things I’m still not sure how I go so lucky. My boy is amazing in every way. He has given me some of the best moments of my life purposefully woven with love, joy and struggle.

Every story has a hero.

Someone that inspires you to see the world differently, in a new light. Someone who makes you want to do better, try harder and to be a better person.

In my story, my son Stalen is that hero.

Stalen was diagnosed with autism when he was 21 months old. In the past 8 years he has taught me so much about love, growth, strength and perseverance. It changes you deep in your core when you watch a person struggle and fight every day for progress and skills that come easily for many. It is heart breaking when that person is your own child. Yet, he never shows signs of growing tired, becoming weary or giving up. He only knows how to fight.

Stalen has helped me discover an inner strength and a strong voice that I didn’t know existed. While some may claim to lose themselves in motherhood, I may have found myself with a renewed purpose. He reminds me to always look fo the good even if you have to dig deep to find it. I admire him wholeheartedly for the amazing boy that he is.

He really has opened up my eyes to the true potential and immeasurable value of every human being. I now see the world clearer in vibrant beautiful colors because of him.

He doesn’t care what you look like, what your wearing, or what you do. He cares about the connection that exists between your heart and his. While he may lack the words to verbally express love, he feels it deep within his soul cascading from his head to the tip of his toes. In turn, his love shines on you from his wide smiles, twinkling big eyes and tight squeezes.

Stalen appreciates the simple things. He doesn’t care about presents, the most popular toys or tv shows. He appreciates your time and being present in the moment with you.

He was amazing in my dreams before he was born, he was exquisite at birth when we met for the first time and he continues to be beyond amazing each and every day since. I’m not quite sure what I did to deserve him but I am lucky enough to be his Mom.

I’ve never been lucky in anything in my life. But, I’ve nailed it with this kid.

Even on the hard and difficult days there is no place else I’d rather be than right there in the thick of it with him.

I’m not just lucky, but honoured and proud to be Stalen’s Mom. It’s a role that I take very serious and embrace every day. I will continue to strive to be the very best mom that I can be for him.