Happy’s Story

Ocean was born at 29 weeks after a difficult pregnancy. At 5 months old, I was told to sign a DNR as there was no hope for her to recover or be a normal child.

She stayed in the hospital for five months. I was determined to give her the chance of life. My baby grabbed that chance with both hands. Every day she got stronger and stronger. Eventually, she was transferred to a children’s hospital. And then, a week after that, we were on our way home.

While we were delighted to be home, we’d both gone through a horrible ordeal. And while she was no longer at risk of dying, it was a terrifying time. I was alone with a very poorly baby. Depression and anxiety set in. My baby was so fragile, and it became impossible to find the strength and courage to walk out my front door.

I was put in touch with Home-Start Horizons, who told me about their weekly family group. They knew I struggled to leave the house, so Helen, the family coordinator, would come to my home and help me find the strength to step outside.

Helen quickly felt like family. Without fail, every Tuesday, she was there to help get us to the group. With each trip, my confidence grew. Attending the group was more effective for me than the therapy I’ve had in the past. Looking back, I now realize I needed two things – confidence and community – and with Home-Start, I got both.

When my daughter started school, I knew I wanted to pay back the help and support I received from Home-Start. So, I decided to become a Home-Start volunteer. It’s been an amazing experience.