Maternity at CMIN and Challenges in Daycares in Portugal
Brazilian Mother in Portugal: Challenges and Triumphs in Motherhood Without a Support Network
Date: April 3rd
In this special episode, we dive into the story of a Brazilian mother who has found her home and built her life in Gaia, Portugal. Amidst the beauty of her new home, she shares her sincere and real journey through motherhood – a path filled with challenges, joys, and the ultimate test of strength.
Facing the Challenge: A Difficult Pregnancy
The story begins with the narrative of her challenging pregnancy, culminating in a natural birth experience at the renowned Centro Materno Infantil do Norte (CMIN). Choosing to give birth without anesthesia, she reveals the incredible power of a mother’s will and the intensity of bringing a life into this world under such raw circumstances.
Navigating Motherhood Without a “Support Network”
In Portugal, the concept of a “support network” is crucial for new parents. She opens up about the difficulties of raising a child without this essential support system. With her husband, son, and loyal dog by her side, she discusses the innovative ways they’ve managed parenting responsibilities, especially on days when their work schedules don’t align with childcare availability.
Friendship: The Invisible Pillar of Support
Despite the absence of a traditional support network, she emphasizes the invaluable role of friends who have become like family. They step in to help care for her one-year-old, showcasing the beauty of chosen kinship and the unexpected forms of community that arise in expat life.
Adapting to New Beginnings: The Nutritional Journey
The episode delves into the adaptations the family has had to make, particularly regarding their child’s nutrition. She shares insightful details about the food adaptation process they underwent at the McRae Centre for Children, highlighting the complexities and triumphs of meeting the dietary needs of a growing child in a new country.
Why Watch?
The narrative is more than just a story of motherhood. It’s a testament to resilience, the power of community, and the universal quest for a healthy, happy family life, regardless of where in the world you might find yourself.
Her experiences, struggles, and victories offer invaluable insights, not only for expat families but for anyone navigating the unpredictable journey of parenthood. Join us as she lays bare the realities of her life in Portugal, the lessons learned, and the unbreakable spirit of a mother’s love.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on April 3rd. Discover the strength required to build a life in a foreign land, the importance of support in its various forms, and the joy that comes from overcoming life’s hurdles together as a family.
