‘I see you crying as you’re reminded during the entire season just how different your child’s life is.’: Special needs mom urges ‘you’re not alone’ this Christmas

“I see you, searching the toy aisle for a toy your child could *maybe* do independently.

I see you, buying an infant toy for your elementary age child.

I see you, buying items you’d buy anyways, but you need something – anything – under the tree.

I see you, wrapping gifts you know you’ll be unwrapping for your child.

I see you, wiping away a tear as you are reminded just how delayed your child is.

I see you, searching the internet for a toy and not a therapy item to give.

I see you, crying as you’re reminded during the entire Christmas season just how different your child’s life is.

I see you, trying to enjoy the magic of the Christmas season, although many of the traditions are hard for your disabled child.

I see you, making cookies your child won’t ever taste or touch.

I see you.

Christmas shopping can be a stark reminder of just how delayed your child is. To be honest, the entire Christmas season can be difficult. The magic. The traditions. All of it…unnoticed or not enjoyed by your child.

But I want you to know, I see you.

I am you.

You’re not alone.”

This story was submitted to Love What Matters by Melissa Schlemmer of Forest Lake, Minnesota. You can follow their journey on Facebook and Instagram. Submit your own story here, and be sure to subscribe to our free email newsletter for our best stories, and YouTube  for our best videos.

Read more from Melissa here:

‘Shhhh, just keep walking.’ You taught her NOT to see my son.’: Special needs mom urges ‘ask the questions’

‘We carry a heavy load. Our bags and purses are full. What’s even harder is going to bed and unloading our shoulders.’: Special needs mom says ‘there are plenty of beautiful extras we gladly carry’

‘Somewhere there’s a mom tired of picking up toys. Somewhere else, there’s a mom choosing her child’s first wheelchair.’: Special needs mom says ‘I’ll always be grateful for where we are’

‘The neurologist called. ‘I’m 90% sure your son has Congenital Disorder of Glycosylation. Do not google it.’: Special needs mom urges, ‘Life can be beautiful, even when it doesn’t go as planned’

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