The Parenthood Chronicles: Raw and Relatable Tales from Real Families

INTRODUCTION: CAN YOU SHARE A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY (HOW MANY CHILDREN, AGES, LOCATION)

My name is Celestine, and I'm 33 years old. I’ve been married to my partner for 2 years, though we’ve been together since our secondary school days—18 years in total. In July 2024, we welcomed our little miracle, Lex, into our lives after experiencing a previous loss. We currently live in the vibrant city of Singapore. 

OPENING UP: CAN YOU SHARE A TURNING POINT IN YOUR MOTHERHOOD JOURNEY?  WAS IT A MOMENT OF JOY, A CHALLENGE THAT MADE YOU STRONGER, OR SOMETHING ELSE THAT SHAPED WHO YOU ARE AS A MOTHER TODAY? 

My motherhood journey has been deeply shaped by our rainbow pregnancy. After a heartbreaking loss two years ago, I found it hard to allow myself to feel joy until we passed the three-month mark. The pregnancy itself was challenging—I struggled with weight gain, was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and ultimately had to undergo an "emergency" c-section at 35 weeks because Lex wasn't growing as expected. During those days leading up to the surgery, I realised I had to be strong, both physically and emotionally, to protect Lex. I endured painful steroid injections to help develop his lungs and prepared myself mentally for the c-section, even though I had initially hoped for a natural birth. When I finally heard Lex's first cry, I knew that every challenge had been worth it just to have him safely in our arms.

FINDING YOUR BALANCE:  MOTHERHOOD HAS SO MANY FACETS.  HOW DO YOU FIND HARMONY BETWEEN YOUR ROLES AS A MUM, YOUR PERSONAL IDENTITY, AND YOUR CAREER OR PASSIONS? 

Being a mum is a 24/7 job, but I try to find little moments for myself, like watching new shows in the background to relax. During my maternity leave, I've been focusing on fully embracing this time with Lex, while also hoping to adapt as I transition back into balancing my personal interests and professional life.

SUPPORT SYSTEMS:  WE ALL NEED A LISTENING EAR OR HELPING HAND SOMETIMES!  WHO ARE THE PEOPLE IN YOUR "VILLAGE" WHO UPLIFT YOU ON YOUR MOTHERHOOD JOURNEY? 

I’m incredibly grateful for my family,  friends and new mummy friends I’ve met along this journey. They've generously shared hand-me-downs like a baby rocker and carrier and offered invaluable advice on caring for Lex. We continue to exchange tips and support one another. I also owe so much to my parents and in-laws, who prepared all the necessary confinement items and ingredients, as we did not have sufficient time to prepare since it was one month before my expected delivery date.

ADVICE FOR NEW MUMS:  IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT'S ONE PIECE OF WISDOM YOU'D GIVE YOURSELF AS A BRAND-NEW MUM

Feeling anxious is completely normal, and it’s important to remember that you’re not alone on this journey! 

CELEBRATING MOTHERHOOD:  IN THE WHIRLWIND OF DAILY LIFE, HOW DO YOU CARVE OUT MOMENTS TO CELEBRATE THE GIFT OF PARENTHOOD, BIG AND SMALL?

I cherish cuddle time with Lex, especially when he naps on my chest—it’s a small but deeply meaningful way to connect. Watching him grow from a 2kg preemie to a healthy 4.7kg baby fills me with a sense of accomplishment and relief. I give myself a little pat on the back for every milestone we reach together.