Maternity Leave

We live in a broken system, where mothers are forced to chose between spending valuable time with a newborn baby, or providing for a family. My husband and I have worked every day since we graduated from college, both working full time while we got master's degrees in education. While we have rewarding careers is so many ways, financially is not one of them. We have been so blessed with a wonderful daughter and now have a son on the way. Truly we could not be more grateful. But now we face the hurtful reality that finances will be a burden that gets in the way of spending time with my newborn child. After medical bills (even with insurance the estimate is close to $5000) and hoping to take advantage of 12 weeks FMLA (approximately $7000 in take home pay) it puts us in a desperate situation. I am so sadden by our current system that in a developed country, the benefits for working mothers (and fathers) are so little. I cannot think of a greater gift than being able to bond with my child. I have never asked for any handouts, and while part of me is still uncomfortable doing so, I am putting my pride aside. 

I can assure you that not only will I be grateful, but will work to try to improve the system we live in. I know there must be a better way, and I know I'm not in the minority of women in this same position. Thank you for taking the time to read this.