Michelle Simcox
I was diagnosed with premature ovarian syndrome at 25. My ex husband and I explored every avenue we could within our financial means and we could handle emotionally and psychologically. We divorced and here I was at 34 having to start over again.
I always thought I’d find someone, and maybe become a step mom anyway but at 59 I’m still single and no kids. Am I lucky? I’m lucky in that I have my health and job etc. But always felt like I’ve missed out on family life and playing Santa, Easter bunny and tooth fairy and watching my child milestones and grow. I miss not being called mom or celebrate Mother’s Day like many of my friends do. They are the lucky ones, that get to experience having a family, announcing a pregnancy, giving birth and the baby showers.
Most families have traditions I don’t have any and wish I did. I would trade places anyday to just be called mom and given that mom card.
There are days especially during the pandemic, I was kind of glad, seeing what parents were going through with virtual schools and lock downs and Covid. But in the end I’ll never have that memory with my kids. I’m now 59 and many of my friends are becoming grandparents, something else I’ll never experience and will never have those memories.
I think next time when someone says “Your lucky you don’t have kids“ I’m going to respond back with feel lucky you have them, you have a family and memories. Being on the other side is pretty lonely. People don’t know how lucky they are not to have to go through being alone and not having a family of their own.
