We bring you a series of short reads from women just like you.
Source Mamas raising their kids with disabilities. The tears, the triumphs, the raw and the real.
What’s your name and where do you live in Australia?
I’m Jules and I’m from Melbourne, Vic.
What’s your story, who are you and how did you arrive at this point in life?
I’m a mum to two beautiful boys, wife and business owner of William Ready.
When my eldest son was diagnosed autistic in 2015, my husband and I made it our mission to supporting all families to live their best life, and help others see the unique abilities in our neurodivergent loved ones. We do that through our products, care and support. Little did I know that our lives would be forever changed after that diagnosis.
Some days are harder than others, but day by day and year by year… we grow stronger and prouder of all we have achieved.
How has being a special needs mama changed you or your lifestyle?
It’s changed in every way possible!
Since my son’s diagnosis, I’ve tried my absolute best to make sure both my boys, diagnosis or not, would be given every chance to live happy, fun, inclusive and successful lives.
My autistic son has truly changed my world for the better. I’ve had to be patient, supportive and care for him in a way that has shown me a strength like no other. It’s also made me appreciate the small things in life, and really acknowledge that we are all beautiful, unique and 100% deserving of what life has to offer.
What’s your biggest challenge right now?
Not so much a challenge, but my son’s future is something that I think about often. At only 10 years old, there are so many wonderful years ahead for him, but I find the vulnerability of caring for a child with a disability hit you so much harder. The challenge for me will be backing myself and not doubting the decisions I make for him as the years go on.
What do you do for you time?
Exercise has always been something that I enjoy and helps my mental health so much. I love running, high intensity workouts and the feeling afterwards!
I feel like as the years have gone on, finding time for myself is less and less. There is simply not enough time in the day, but finding pockets of time for self-care is so important because it helps me be a better mum, wife and all-round happier person!
What do you need?
That’s an interesting question, and one I haven’t really thought about recently! I don’t really need anything to be honest. In fact, I’m so blessed with who I have in my life and where it’s heading. I probably would just like more time during the day to get everything done!
What brings a smile to your face?
I love making people happy, and the feeling of knowing I am making a small difference in the lives of others is something that truly brings me joy.
Being a mum, without a doubt is my biggest achievement and my boys bring a smile to my face every day 😊
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope for a world where everybody is truly accepted for exactly who they are. Where everyone is treated equal and where people with disabilities don’t have to work a thousand times harder to fit in.
I hope for more inclusion, acceptance and kindness always. As a society, we have come a long way, but we still have far to go, and its up to everyone to start being open to learning from lived experience and true diversity.
