Support is there through the tough times

A first-hand account of a mother's experience on the Family Start programme:

I first came across Family Start when a friend suggested I self-refer, as she and her tamariki had used the programme.

I was early into my second pregnancy, had a 16-month-old son, and was unsure if I had it in me to have two babies under the age of 2. My first postpartum had been more than challenging, and at 10-weeks pregnant with number two, a drunk driver rear ended me and my boy; we were lucky to escape relatively unscathed.

Our first whānau support worker was lovely, and provided some great resources, but we didn’t really “click”.  After a few months, she told us she was leaving Family Works.

Four days after my daughter was born there was a knock at our door, and along came an angel named Ms A. She was delivering blankets, clothing and kai for us.

The more I got to know Ms A, the more comfortable we became. She could relate to my situation (having been in the same spot a year earlier), and always arrived with a smile, and usually something interesting for me to experiment with in the wharekai. But more than that, she was an extra pair of hands to help with the toddler when the baby needed me, a compassionate ear when I needed to vent about my mother-in-law, and always there to reassure me that, yes, it’s tough, but it’s not forever.

And what do you know. She was right.  Usually when she checked in about the issues which had seemed unbearable a fortnight earlier, they had resolved completely or were well on their way to resolution.  I really enjoyed the goal setting we did every three months, as it was a reminder of how far we’d come.

Ms A supported us through night weaning, toilet training, and planning our wedding, as well as encouraging me to think about getting back to study.  I’ve just received my marks for my first assessment in my Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage course at the Southern Institute of Technology, and I got 27.5/30.

The transition to full-time study and full-time care for the babes hasn’t been easy, but we’re all adjusting well.  Our wedding was absolutely perfect, and I’m excited for my happily ever after.

I want to thank Family Works for offering such a wonderful service to Murihiku.  We’re all so grateful for what we’ve learned, and an extra big thank you to Ms A!

-       Family Start client