My Extraordinary (Medical) Adventures: Rise of the Working Mom (Part Two)

My Extraordinary (Medical) Adventures: Rise of the Working Mom (Part Two): When my son was born he was this fragile little being. His cry broke my heart. He was so small yet so powerful. His existence instantly tran...

Rise of the Working Mom (Part Two)

When my son was born he was this fragile little being. His cry broke my heart. He was so small yet so powerful. His existence instantly transformed and brought the best out of me. Things changed... like my driving; I stopped speeding. I exercised and ate better. I became more kind and generous.

 

When my maternity leave expired, it was time to go back to work...but I couldn't. I wouldn't. I couldn't think straight, my heart was pounding, my palms were sweaty. I knew I needed more time. I called my boss. I knew she was a mother and would understand. We talked and discussed options including extending my maternal leave of 8 weeks. She was supportive and encouraged me to take the time I needed. I was warned however, that I would have to make up any additional time. Pediatric residency is 3 years and any additional time outside of vacation and personal/sick day had to be made up.
I hated the thought of staying behind. As if it wasn't enough that repeating my entire intern year had already put me one year behind. Now I had to extend my residency for an additional 2 weeks. Initially frustrating, but the extra time with my son ended up being the best decision and I'm glad I had that support.

I don't know where I got the strength to go back. Everyday at work felt like a piece of me was ripped apart. It was painful. But with time, it became bearable. My baby grew and wasn't this fragile being anymore. He started sitting, babbling and crawling around. My nerves calmed down.

He is about to turn ONE. He is growing, cruising and chatting away. Now I ask "why did the time fly by"? LOL. I praise God for this journey and for teaching me patience. I have so much respect for Mothers. Mothers all over the world. Housewives. Working mothers. Single mothers. How do we do it??? Only God knows, but keep doing it!!!

Dedicated to ALL (working) MOTHERS...