The story below was the inspiration for helping this young mother get another week of ESSENTIAL maternity leave! Moms & babies deserve more time together ❤️

I just stopped by Braums on my way home from the office for a gallon of milk. The cashier was sweeping up some blueberries and I made a joke about cleaning up after my toddler at home. She responded that she had a barely 1 year old and a 3 WEEK OLD at home. I reactively responded “Oh my god, are you ok? How are you even standing?” Her eyes immediately got misty and she said, “I have to have a paycheck and there’s no maternity leave here.” I don’t even recall what else was said other then a general recognition of how hard things are for her right now.

I can’t imagine going back to work, on my feet, 3 weeks after giving birth.

I can’t imagine giving birth during this pandemic.

I can’t imagine working with the public during a pandemic with 2 little babies with tiny immune systems at home.

My heart just broke for her. My empathy ran real deep in just a quick moment of motherly recognition of her struggle. I saw her pain and hope she felt seen. I have no idea what to do with this helpless feeling I have right now. But I know our system is broken. I just want to cry for this stranger and feel guilty for my privilege.