When I first started planning for maternity leave, I assumed my company would offer at least a few weeks of paid time off. But as my due date grew closer, I discovered the harsh reality: there was no paid maternity leave available, and my savings wouldn’t cover the months I needed to recover and bond with my baby.
At first, I felt stuck — and ashamed. Asking for financial help isn’t easy, especially when it comes to something so personal. But with encouragement from friends, I decided to launch a GoFundMe campaign. I was honest about my situation: I wanted to take time to heal, care for my newborn, and adjust to motherhood without the fear of bills piling up.
To my surprise, the response was overwhelming. Friends, family, coworkers, and even strangers stepped in. Some gave small amounts, others more, but every contribution added up. What struck me most wasn’t just the financial support — it was the messages of solidarity from other parents who had been through the same struggle.
Still, it felt bittersweet. While I was grateful for the generosity of my community, I couldn’t ignore the deeper issue: why should any parent have to crowdfund basic parental leave? The United States is one of the only developed countries without guaranteed paid maternity leave, and my story is just one of thousands that highlight the gap in support for new families.
Using GoFundMe allowed me to take the time I desperately needed with my baby, and I’ll always be thankful for that. But it also lit a fire in me to advocate for change. Parents deserve financial security during one of the most vulnerable and important times of their lives.
If you’re in a similar position, know this: there’s no shame in asking for help. Parenthood is hard enough without financial stress, and sometimes leaning on your community is the only way to make it through.
I used GoFundMe to bridge the gap — but I hope future parents won’t have to. Paid maternity leave shouldn’t be a privilege you have to fight for, or fundraise for. It should be a right.
#MaternityLeave #WorkingMoms #ParentalRights #SupportParents #MotherhoodJourney