Additional Coverage:
- I’m 41 and a mom to triplets. I did the math and would need 6 figures just to cover the day care fees. (businessinsider.com)
Triplet Mom Battles Guilt While Navigating the Chaos of Parenthood
For Leila Green, 41, the news that she was expecting triplets was initially met with shock. Following two previous miscarriages, the joy of hearing three heartbeats during an ultrasound quickly turned to apprehension about the challenges ahead.
The birth involved a large medical team and a planned C-section. Although prepared for the triplets’ immediate transfer to the NICU, the separation proved more traumatic than anticipated. The situation worsened when two of the babies had to be moved to a different hospital, leaving Leila feeling heartbroken and overwhelmed.
Five weeks later, two babies came home, while the third remained hospitalized, triggering Leila’s first wave of mom guilt. Juggling the needs of multiple infants in different locations felt impossible, and she constantly felt like she was letting one of them down.
Finally reunited at home, Leila and her husband faced the daunting task of caring for three newborns simultaneously. A strict feeding and sleeping schedule, implemented with the help of a maternity nurse, became essential for maintaining some semblance of sanity. Despite their efforts, the exhaustion and relentless demands of triplet parenthood pushed Leila to her limits.
To alleviate the pressure, the couple hired a part-time nanny, providing Leila with precious moments to catch up on sleep. When the triplets turned one, Leila contemplated returning to her co-founded company.
However, the exorbitant cost of childcare, exceeding $109,000 annually, made it financially unfeasible. Grieving the loss of her career, Leila eventually accepted that it was a sacrifice she had to make for her family.
Now, with the triplets enrolled in part-time childcare (though frequent illnesses often disrupt their attendance), Leila is focusing on her own well-being and building a new brand, “F*** Mum Guilt,” aimed at supporting other mothers struggling with similar challenges. She’s also navigating the joys and trials of toddlerhood, from cookie heists orchestrated by her trio to the constant cycle of childhood illnesses. Despite the daily firefighting, Leila acknowledges the incredible feat of raising three children simultaneously and finds strength in her accomplishments.