Listen to this Article
The Special Needs Mama Bear Spirit
Have you ever watched a mama bear—whether in a nature documentary, on social media or even in person? You’ve likely noticed her fierce determination to protect, nurture, and guide her cubs as they navigate life. She stands strong in the face of threats, tirelessly searching for what they need and adapting to every challenge to ensure they survive and thrive.
As special needs mamas, our fierce love and determination become second nature. Facing our child’s diagnosis with strength and focus transforms us into formidable advocates and the most dedicated supporters and cheerleaders. Along the way, we take on what typically requires a team of multidisciplinary specialists—mastering medical terminologies, therapy techniques, and specialized care strategies—all to meet our child’s unique needs. Even when it doesn’t feel like it, we are doing an incredible job because whichever role we step into, our mission remains the same—empowering our children to thrive and reach their full potential.
From overwhelmed to empowered Mama
I still remember when my son was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. He was only nine months old, and though I was already a mother to three young children, the diagnosis stripped me of everything I thought I knew about parenting. Suddenly, I was insecure, afraid, and second-guessing myself. That was twenty years ago, and today, my son is an amazing young man, disability and all. He is the life of the party, with a million-dollar smile that infuses warmth into everyone’s lives.
The Mama Bear determination
But my journey to this point didn’t come easy. At the time of his birth, we lived in Jamaica, where services for children with disabilities were limited. Like the mama bear, I grew into the advocate I am today, stepping up to speak for him. It wasn’t easy, but my love for my child and my desire to see him receive the support he needed was compelling. I founded the Nathan Ebanks Foundation, where, for fifteen years, I became the voice and face of the disability inclusion movement in Jamaica.
Later, we moved to the United States for his high school years. While services were more extensive, they were often challenging to access. I had to learn how to be my son’s voice, fighting for the individualized services he needed to ensure his educational experience was meaningful. I also found many mothers were experiencing challenges, so I founded Raising Special Needs Inc. To provide parenting education and coaching services.
Today, I have truly leaned into the special needs mama bear title. But that was not always the case. I still remember the first time I was called that—Nathan was two years old. At first, I didn’t think much of it. It wasn’t a role I consciously chose but rather one I grew into out of necessity. However, looking back on our journey—Nathan graduating high school to a standing ovation in 2018, his transition into a well-adjusted and confident young man, his debut speaking engagement at a middle school, and the systems that have improved because of him—I realize what an honor that title truly is. It has also inspired me to use the systems I have created in our lives and through my practice to support other mothers in finding their roar.
This is why I developed the Special Needs Mama Bear Principle and System, which I will introduce in my upcoming book, The Special Needs Mama Bear Playbook: Empowering Families One Special Journey at a Time. I have found that the power of choice empowers us rather than obligates us; it transforms the journey, growing our confidence and enabling us to thrive, find joy, and discover purpose in raising and supporting our children with disabilities. While we may not have chosen for our child to have a disability, we have the power to choose acceptance—to embrace them as they are and create a fulfilling life for ourselves, our child, and our family. And I am eager to share this with you, our readers.
Empowering our Special Needs Mama community
As special needs mamas, fierce love and determination become second nature. When faced with our child’s diagnosis, we tap into strengths we never knew we had, transforming into formidable advocates and dedicated supporters. We take on what usually requires a team of specialists—mastering medical terms, therapy techniques, and specialized care strategies—to meet our child’s unique needs. Even on the toughest days, we rise to the challenge, proving that our love knows no limits. No matter the role we step into, our mission is empowering our children to thrive.
Today, over 1.3 billion people worldwide live with disabilities, and behind many of them are families, figuring things out one step at a time. No two journeys are the same, even with identical diagnoses. The availability of healthcare, education, and support systems can make all the difference, yet these resources are not always within reach. The services we see today didn’t originate from governments or organizations—they began with parents and individuals who spoke up, demanded change, and paved the way for progress. When we don’t share our voices, those who create policies and programs may never truly understand how to support us and our children. That’s why our voices matter.
The Special Needs Mama Bear principle is built on this belief. When parents feel empowered, they move beyond simply surviving to truly thriving—and that is the ultimate goal. This segment is dedicated to sharing our journeys, learning from one another, and building a supportive, confident community of mama bears who inspire and uplift each other every step of the way.
Join the Special Needs Mama Bear community
We invite you to join the Special Needs Mama Bear community of empowered special needs parents. In this segment, we will share inspiring stories, practical strategies, and expert insights to help you navigate your journey with confidence.
Share your story for an opportunity to be featured.
Join our community on social media by following us:
Facebook @cstapleebanks | Instagram @cstapleebanks | LinkedIn: christinestapleebanks
And tag a friend or five, whoever can benefit from joining our movement. Your voice is vital in building a stronger, more connected network of Mama Bears.
Like bears in the wild, we are stronger together. Let’s celebrate our victories and advocate for a more inclusive world for our children.
Email me at: contact@thespecialneedsmamabear.com
Your journey may inspire and uplift others in our community.