March is for motherhood. My daughter was born March 5, 2008. I remember when I found out I was pregnant. I was terrified. At the time, social media wasn’t a super common way to connect with many people. I didn’t know anyone who was a mom in a wheelchair. I felt like I was completely unprepared for what was coming. For everything! Not to mention, I was going to do it alone. I started looking for anything I could find on the internet on raising a baby when you have a disability, but the information was limited.
My pregnancy wasn’t bad. Everything I experienced seemed pretty common. I had nausea and uncomfortable moments. As I got farther along in my pregnancy, I learned that I had to be careful when I transferred pretty much anywhere. She was much more active and her movement could cause me to lose balance.
Learning to Adapt with My Disability
After she was born, I learned how to do everything my way, like how to strap her to my lap so I could roll and carry. I found a crib with doors that opened forward instead of up and down. I discovered how to help her get on and off the floor and learned how to push a stroller. Plus, I figured out how to get her car seat in and out of the car. Overall, I adapted and I continue to adapt every day. Being a mother is the greatest adventure I have been on. My daughter is my best friend. We have both learned how to function together and make things work. I am very proud of the woman she is becoming. I believe having a mother in a wheelchair has taught her to be more accepting. I think she has become more adaptable as well.
I am proud of myself for facing the fear of motherhood and I am proud of what she and I have accomplished together!
About Kerri Knudson: Kerri lives in Utah with her daughter. She uses a 4Front® 2 Power Wheelchair and loves exploring the outdoors. Click here to learn more about Kerri.
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