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There's nothing more terrifying for a new mom than not being able to feed her baby. This nightmare became a reality for an Ohio mother who, after running out of breast milk in the middle of the night, found herself unable to feed her one-week-old newborn.Desperate, she turned to the police for help. And one kind-hearted officer delivered — free of charge.
Luciana Grandi Lourenção was seconds away from one of the biggest triumphs of her life. The personal trainer was mere steps from claiming the top spot on the podium at the Presidente Prudente Half Marathon in Brazil. But before she could reach the finish line, her husband showed up on the sidelines and pushed their two daughters into her path, nearly ruining her big moment. However, instead of stopping, she deliberately sidestepped her kids and ran. She WON. And now? She's winning the hearts and praise of millions of people for putting herself first.
Everyone stumbles. But it’s not how hard we fall that counts: it’s how we pick ourselves up. Sometimes, things don’t go the way we plan, and we’re faced with incredibly difficult circumstances. But if you can push through the way this young mother did, something wonderful can happen.
Mother's Day is celebrated with flowers, heartfelt cards, and family gatherings. It's a day dedicated to honoring the women who raised us, yet for many, it's a day filled with mixed emotions. The bond between a mother and child is often seen as sacred, but not everyone has that idyllic relationship with their mom. If you find Mother's Day challenging, you're not alone.Cole Sprouse's Strained Relationship with His MotherMany people know Cole Sprouse from his work on the Disney Channel's The Suite Life of Zack & Cody and later on the hit show Riverdale. However, behind the scenes, his relationship with his mother, Melanie Wright, was far from perfect. Cole and his twin brother, Dylan Sprouse, became child stars at a young age when they starred in Adam Sandler's Big Daddy. But their early success came with challenges that shaped the rest of their lives.Cole's mother had aspirations for her sons' careers and saw their acting success as a way to find both artistic recognition and financial stability. In a 2023 interview on the Diary of a CEO podcast, Cole described his mother as "the tortured artist type" who struggled with mental health and addiction."This industry encourages the worst qualities of you as a person: selfishness, greed. A lot of these things that we have come to know as cardinal sins. It’s one of those things that encouraged a kind of selfishness that’s directly opposed to the fundamental idea of motherhood. And as I grew older, in my case, the court had to step in and send my brother and me towards my father." - Cole SprouseAs her erratic behavior became more severe, it affected the family's financial stability and eventually led to Melanie Wright losing custody of her children.Cole's father stepped in to provide a more stable environment, allowing the twins to continue their acting careers while regaining a sense of normalcy. However, the scars of his mother's struggles left a lasting impact on Cole. With time and distance, the now 31-year-old shared that he does not "blame" his mother, but though we may forgive, that doesn't mean we necessarily forget.So what do you do when you don't want to live in the past, but don't know how to move forward?Navigating Boundaries with "Mother Wounds" In Toxic RelationshipsNot every mother-child relationship is healthy, and sometimes setting boundaries is the best way to cope with toxic behavior. These toxic behaviors can be subtle and challenging to identify, especially when they come from someone who should offer love and support. If interactions with your mother leave you feeling drained, confused, or constantly judged, you might be experiencing what is often called a "mother wound."Common signs of toxic parents include manipulative behavior, controlling tendencies, constant criticism, or creating an environment where you feel like you're "walking on eggshells." If these traits sound familiar, it's essential to establish and enforce boundaries to protect your mental and emotional well-being. Although setting boundaries can feel uncomfortable, it's a crucial step in reclaiming your sense of self-worth and finding peace of mind.Remember, setting boundaries with a toxic parent isn't about blame or changing them; it's about taking control of your response to harmful behaviors. You can choose to limit contact, skip family gatherings, or even cut ties if that's what's best for you. These boundaries can be a lifeline, helping you heal from your "mother wound" and move forward without guilt or anxiety.Finding Support and Creating New TraditionsIf Mother's Day is difficult for you, know that seeking support is a healthy response. Just as Cole Sprouse found stability with his brother, father, and the acting community, you can find support through friends, family, or therapy. Organizations like Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families (ACA) provide a safe space to talk about your feelings and share your story with people who understand. Whether through therapy, support groups, or a circle of close friends, connecting with others can help you feel less isolated.Given the variety of reasons why Mother's Day can be painful, it's crucial to find your own way to navigate the day. Traditional celebrations might not resonate with you, and that's okay. Consider creating new traditions that bring you joy. This might include spending time with people who feel like family, engaging in activities that bring you peace, or even volunteering to help others in need. Mother's Day doesn't have to be about conventional celebrations. It's about honoring your journey and creating new memories that reflect your values and desires.Mother's Day is just one day on the calendar. It doesn't define you or your relationship with your mother. Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions arise, without judgment or pressure to conform to societal expectations. If you need to take a break from social media or avoid certain topics, give yourself permission to do so.You are not alone. Many people have complex relationships with their mothers. As you navigate Mother's Day in your unique way, remember that you have the power to shape your own future. Focus on what brings you joy and strength, and know that you can create a life that reflects your values and dreams. By doing so, you honor your journey and create a future that brings you comfort and strength.
Marla Branyan is a mom from Indiana who knows the relentless cycle of parenting. It's early mornings, hectic breakfasts, and laundry that's piled up like a mountain. With a 3-year-old daughter and a 5-year-old son, she's no stranger to stained clothes. But after years of feeling pressured to keep her kids looking spotless, she decided it was time to break the cycle. "Why should I stress about a little mess?" she asked. And with that, her TikTok video about sending her kids to school in stained clothing went viral, sparking a heated debate among parents.
Brittany Cole (@brittmcole), a mother of two from Shawnee, Kansas, faced a challenging moment when her 4-year-old daughter Norah came home from school excited about her new friend, describing her as "the fat girl with pink glasses."
When Jaclyn Fieberg and her husband Greg Fieberg tied the knot in 2018, they eagerly anticipated starting a family. Fieberg, an elementary school teacher, and Greg, a firefighter and sergeant in the Air National Guard, dreamed of the warmth and laughter of children filling their home after long days at work. However, their hopes were dashed when Jaclyn Fieberg received devastating diagnoses of endometriosis and a chromosomal condition, casting a shadow over their dreams of parenthood.As an elementary school teacher, Fieberg poured her heart into nurturing her students, but deep down, she yearned for a child of her own to love and cherish. Each day, as she watched her students laugh and learn, the ache in her heart grew stronger, a silent longing for the pitter-patter of little feet and the joy of holding her own baby close. As the years passed and hope seemed lost, each day served as a poignant reminder of the life she longed to have but feared may never come to fruition — the dream of holding her own child in her arms.They Hit "Every Single Roadblock"Jaclyn FiebergJaclyn Fieberg and her husband Greg embarked on their journey to parenthood filled with hope and anticipation. However, their path was fraught with challenges from the very beginning. Despite their unwavering determination, they faced countless obstacles, enduring seven rounds of IVF and three heartbreaking miscarriages. "Every single roadblock that I felt like we could hit, we were hitting."Yet each setback had a silver lining. These obstacles only helped their bond more as a couple, testing their resilience and resolve. However, in the midst of their struggles, Fieberg found hope in her sisters, McIntyre and Corritori. Their constant support and selfless acts of love played a crucial role in making Jaclyn's dreams of motherhood a reality. In the best plot twist ever, her family helped her start one.God “Blessed” Her in the Most Unexpected WayTODAY ShowWhen her doctor, Matthew Lederman of RMA of New York - Westchester, suggested the possibility of using an egg donor, her younger sister, Meredith McIntyre, immediately stepped forward. Led by love, McIntyre selflessly volunteered to donate her eggs, offering Fieberg a ray of hope in her darkest hour.“I don’t know how she went through the journey that she’s been through," McIntyre, a mother of twins, said. "It’s been years and it was so hard for her family to see her struggle. It was just blow after blow.”"I just knew it was something I had to do for her," McIntyre said. For the first time in a long time, Fieberg had a renewed hope — but it wouldn't last long. The family was devastated when they discovered their initial attempt was unsuccessful. McIntyre experienced complications and was not able to carry Fieberg's baby-to-be.That's when her sister Stephanie Corritori courageously volunteered to carry the baby. It was the sisterhood of the traveling womb!These three sisters joined forces, showing incredible determination and the strength of family bonds. With their unwavering support, Fieberg found herself blessed in a way she never imagined — surrounded by the love of her sisters and the joy of having a child with their help.Their Prayers Were Finally AnsweredJaclyn FiebergAs Fieberg and her sisters stood united in their unwavering support, their prayers were finally answered in the most miraculous of ways. After enduring countless trials and setbacks on their journey to parenthood, she received the long-awaited news that would change their lives forever.On Feb. 1, 2024 their baby girl, Emersyn Clare Fieberg was born. And she was perfect.A mother at last, Fieberg said of Emersyn, "She’s going to know her story, and she’s going to know how wanted she was, and that her aunts did the most selfless, incredible thing."She Listened to an Uplifting Playlist EverydayEvery day, Stephanie Corritori found inspiration in a meticulously curated playlist. These songs were a source of strength throughout their unique journey to parenthood. A month before Corritori underwent IVF, the playlist became a comforting companion during these unsure time. With each melody, Corritori found a renewed sense of hope and determination. One song, My Wish by Rascal Flatts, held a special significance, reflecting Fieberg's struggles and the heartfelt desire for a brighter future, not only for her but now for little Emersyn. This playlist, carefully crafted with love and intention, became a symbol of resilience and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.Corritori's playlist included a diverse selection of uplifting tunes, each carrying its own message of hope and perseverance. From Luke Bryan's Most People are Good, a reminder of the inherent goodness in the world, to the timeless classics like Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey's When You Believe and I Will Always Love You, each song served as a beacon of light during their darkest days. Other songs included Elton John's I'm Still Standing and MercyMe's I Can Only Imagine — a powerful song which sparked dreams of a future filled with endless possibilities. As Corritori listened to these melodies day after day, she found herself filled with hope and determination. Each song became a prayer, a reminder that even in the midst of uncertainty, miracles were possible. And when baby Emersyn finally arrived, these songs echoed the joy and gratitude that filled their hearts, a testament to the power of love, faith, and the unwavering support of family.“Blessings” Come in All Shapes and SizesThough Fieberg may not have been blessed with a baby in the traditional sense, she discovered a different kind of blessing in the form of her family. With unwavering love and support, her sisters, Meredith McIntyre and Stephanie Corritori, stepped forward to fulfill her dreams of motherhood. More from Goalcast:Woman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight – Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn BabyWoman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight – Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn BabyAngry Customer Throws a Drink at Pregnant McDonald’s Worker – But One Stranger Witnesses Everything
After tragically losing her mother in a car crash, no one would blame Staci Green if she never forgave the person responsible. After all, her mother was gone; the victim of someone else's reckless driving. And anger and bitterness can be easier pills to swallow than forgiveness. And for a long time, this was the case. Green fell into a deep depression. Unable to focus, she lost her job. Consumed by rage and grief, she was happy to watch Nikia Cherry suffer. But what started with heartache and soul-crushing loss incredibly evolved into a masterclass in forgiveness. And we can all learn something from it.The Car CrashPhoto by PixabayOn January 20, 2020, Cherry was doing 73 miles per hour in a 45-mph zone when she collided with 76-year-old Rosie Minor, a mother of four and a grandmother of nine. Rosie died in hospital a few hours later.Police charged Cherry with speeding and vehicular homicide. After pleading guilty, she was sentenced to 24 months probation, 240 hours of community service, and a $2500 fine, according to CBS News. On top of the criminal proceedings, there was also a civil trial. One that would result in Rosie's family receiving a $10 million settlement with Allstate Insurance. For three years, Green was FURIOUS with Cherry. Fueled by resentment and pain, she stood by and watched her mother's killer's life unravel. She was determined to see her to pay. But as she found out, seeing your enemy suffer doesn't actually make you happy. At least, not for long. Nearly four years after the accident, something inside of Green changed. She says it was a miracle. Maybe it was.In October 2023, in a courthouse in Atlanta, Georgia, Green walked up to Cherry and said three simple words, "I forgive you.""And when I forgave her, it was like I was reborn again."Staci Green - CBS NewsBecause as it turns out, forgiveness isn't for the other person, it's for ourselves. Taking Forgiveness to a Whole Other LevelAfter the accident, Cherry, a mother of four, lost everything. Her home, her job, her car, her life. And while this may seem like righteous retribution to some, to Green it was a call to action. Forgiving Cherry was just the beginning. Green made a vow that she would do whatever she could to make Cherry's life better. And she's kept that promise and then some."So I am committed to her life getting better," Green told CBS News. "So, I've helped her with money for food...rent. I was her daughter's secret Santa."She even booked Cherry a trip to Miami for her 40th birthday."She's like a God-mama to me," Cherry said of her relationship with Green, holding back tears. "I talk to her every day."The Power of ForgivenessAccording to Green, she was just doing what she knew her mama, an ordained minister, would have wanted her to do. And she believes that if she hadn't forgiven Cherry, she never would have been able to forgive herself.“My mom is already dead,” she said, “and I was walking around dead. In order to get my life back, I had to forgive her. It doesn’t make sense to have two dead people.”Forgiving Cherry didn't mean condoning her actions that led to the accident. And it wasn't about forgetting what had happened.Rather, forgiveness was about freeing herself. From the burden of anger and bitterness that threatened to consume her. Because carrying all of that weight, the hatred and vitriol, it comes with a heavy price. And in her forgiveness, she has discovered something else. Healing, not only for herself, but for Cherry as well. Forgiveness is not about forgetting, it's about choosing to move forward with love and compassion, even in the face of unimaginable pain. Not for the sake of others. But for your own. More from Goalcast:From Debt Collectors to Debt Forgivers—What Happened When Two Men Decided They’d Had EnoughDad Witnesses 10-Year-Old Daughter Being Hit By A Car- Immediately Decides To Forgive HimWhy John Legend Had To Forgive His Mother To Become a Better Man
*Featured image contains photo by Keira BurtonDining out with small children can be a stressful experience. While it's important to teach kids how to act in public (not to mention parents need to get out of the house and live life too), the reality is that it often comes with its fair share of chaos and unpredictability. Not only do you worry about how your kids are going to behave, but you also stress about how other restaurant-goers are going to react to your children. For one frazzled mom in Australia, a fellow diner's response to her two young kids left her on the verge of tears...but for all the RIGHT reasons. Stressed-Out Mom Apologizes for Kids Making NoiseMom Tyne, her husband, and their two sons, aged three and 18 months, were on a weekend getaway to the Sunshine Coast. It was a chance to relax, have fun, and spend quality time together. But for Tyne, grabbing breakfast at a cafe before heading to the Sea Life Aquarium felt anything but relaxing. As any parent of toddlers can relate, you hope for the best but prepare yourself for the worst. As the family waited for their meals, she noticed a woman sitting at a nearby table reading a book. Tyne's alarm bells immediately started ringing. Worried that her boys would disturb the woman by being anything BUT peaceful and quiet (because, kids) Tyne decided to try to diffuse the situation before it reached catastrophic levels. "I immediately apologized to the lovely lady sitting near us as she had a book and [I] was afraid the boys wouldn't be too peaceful." Tyne via the Facebook group, "The Kindness Pandemic""We were chatting for a little and then she left after her breakfast,” the mom added. Little did she know it wasn't the last she would hear from the stranger. Stranger Leaves a Heartwarming NoteWhen the family got up to pay their bill, they were shocked to learn it had already been covered. Not only was it paid for, but in its place was a handwritten note. It read:"It was such a pleasure sharing my brekkie space with you. Please keep doing what you’re doing. You’ve got a beautiful family. Hopefully, you can splurge a little more at Sea Life today. Love Em.”It was from the stranger Tyne had felt compelled to apologize to. Instead of being upset with Tyne for having children being just that, children, she encouraged the mom to keep up the great parenting. Having the tab covered was nice, but it was the note that really meant the most to Tyne. While the message was simple, it packed a powerful punch. "I almost cried. She paid for us... And her kind words were what I needed to hear.”Tyne via FacebookTyne was so grateful for the heartwarming gesture that she decided to share about it on social media in the hopes of tracking Em down.“If you are Em staying in Mooloolaba for work and went to a quirky local that’s your favourite — you are an amazing soul.” she wrote.“Thank you, thank you. We will pay it forward,” she added. The Difference a Kind Word Can MakeBeing a parent isn't easy, especially when kids are young. It takes a lot of hard work, perseverance, and teaching them how to function in the real world. If we want children to grow up into responsible, self-sufficient caring adults that positively contribute to society, they can't be raised in a vacuum. So yup, that means they do have to go out in public. Unfortunately, however, when parents do venture out with their kids they often feel judged rather than supported. This is why Tyne was so apprehensive about her fellow diner's response in the restaurant.The fact that the stranger reacted the way that she did is heartening. It didn't just make a positive impact in Tyne's life, it's also a great reminder for us as well. Because sometimes? Parents just need some encouragement. So the next time you're out and about and you see a parent trying their best, take a moment to let them know that you see them and they're doing a great job. Chances are, they really need to hear it. More from Goalcast:Shocked Mom Finds Dozens of Notes In Her Daughter’s Drawers – Realizes Her Husband Has Given ThemWoman Finds a Note Left by a Stranger on a Train – And It May Have Saved Her LifeProud Military Mom Leaves Work for the Day – Finds a Note From a Stranger That Brings Her to Tears
