#MoreThanAMutha is all about celebrating the things that women are, as well as being amazing mothers. In a world where many women feel like they lose their identity when they become a mum, it is important to celebrate and shout that we might be mums, but we are not only that and we are still a force to be reckoned with.
What makes you more than a mother?
I have always been very passionate about surrogacy since I was a teenager. This year I am embarking on my first journey as a surrogate. I am currently starting medication to prepare me for the fertility treatment; I am hoping that by the end of the year I will have helped to create a family.
Are people surprised when they realise you are more than a mum? Does that bother you?
Most definitely! I always get mixed responses, both positive and negative. I don’t let any of the negativity bother me anymore; surrogacy is not like The Handmaid’s Tale and I don’t have to sleep with anyone to get pregnant. I do appreciate the positive comments though, especially as surrogacy is now becoming more common place.
What challenges do you face when you’re juggling motherhood and being more than a mum?
Luckily I have yet to face any major challenges aside from the daily injections. I am a real needle phobe and can’t do them myself. I can imagine that if I do become pregnant then some days will be hard if I am ill and having to still look after my own children or sorting childcare for appointments and the labour as my husband will also be there incase anything happens.
How long did it take you to realise what you were considering made you more than a mother?
I think it was when I started to receive positive comments from people regarding the surrogacy. I still don’t think what I am doing is anything special, I am just a mum who is helping another woman become a mum too.
Who, or what, helps you to make time for yourself? What do you do to escape the stresses of motherhood?
My husband works away in the week so I very rarely get any time for myself. When I do, I like to have a hot bath and catch up on Netflix.
What advice would you offer a mum who might not be feeling like they are more than someones mum right now?
You are amazing. You may not feel like it right now but you are. You are raising little humans and to them you are the world.
Any advice for someone who is going through the same things as you are right now in their quest to be #MoreThanAMutha?
As a surrogate, please do not listen to the negativity; you are helping to create a family. This is not an off the cuff commitment – this is life changing for everyone involved and is an amazing thing to be a part of.
Who would you like to see featured next in the #MoreThanAMutha series?
Follow Jenna
Are you #MoreThanAMutha? Get in touch to share your story.