Leah Hernandez-Collymore, a former journalist, embarked on her journey into motherhood with the birth of her son, Gabriel Collymore, on December 19, 2021.
Leah, her son, Gabriel, and her husband Nigel
As she reflects on her experiences, Leah shares the joys and challenges of being a new mother.
THE BEGINNING OF A NEW CHAPTER
After finding out I was pregnant, I think the hardest part of my journey is the morning sickness and giving birth because there’s nothing harder than going through pain, especially for an induction process in my experience. I consider the moment I met my son to be my happiest. From then on to this day, regardless of his tantrums, I’m blessed I get to experience mommyhood because of him.
A MOTHER’S INSTINCT AND CHANGING PRIORITIES
Now a teacher, Leah relayed to ThingsGuyana that her overprotective instinct kicked in early and remained strong.
It’s still on because, for some reason, I see everything as a threat to my child. I’m always thinking about the many ways certain things can hurt him, even if it’s just harmless. Another change I experienced is the way I think for context when I wasn’t a mommy, it was all about me, but now it’s all about him I can walk into a store filled with women’s apparel and would be looking for something for my son. I think it’s the need to provide and take care of him, making sure he has enough.
CHERISHED MEMORIES AND FUTURE ASPIRATIONS
This educator’s most cherished memories revolve around the simple joys of motherhood, particularly the first time she held Gabriel in her arms.
Leah, and her son, Gabriel
From then on, every memory I’ve cherished, especially since he’s growing so fast.
Her goal is to instil in him an appreciation for hard work and its rewards.
It’s my goal to have my son be appreciative of hard work, and the fruits it produces. I did not grow up with certain privileges he has now, and while me and his father are going to give it to him, he has got to understand that not everyone is fortunate enough to be treated this way.
BALANCING WORK AND MOTHERHOOD
As a teacher, Leah juggles the demands of her profession with the responsibilities of motherhood. She dedicates her afternoons to Gabriel, especially when she doesn’t have classes.
It’s easy to be overwhelmed with work, as there’s just so much to do. Sometimes, it is hard to manage, but I try my best to prioritise since he’s not going to be little forever.
She acknowledged the importance of spending quality time with her son, even if it meant simply watching a movie together.
TRADITIONS AND SPECIAL MOMENTS
Leah’s most treasured tradition is having Gabriel gift his grandmothers cards and presents.
It’s a special way to show them love and appreciation. Other than that, I think most of the tradition is to spend the day at church.
WORDS OF WISDOM
Leah’s advice to new mothers is to be patient.
Leah, and her son, Gabriel
No amount of books and videos prepares you for the real moment. Being a Mom, I believe, is an instinct that’s waiting to be released. Regardless of how you feel clueless, I promise that you’ll go from not knowing to knowing everything in a click. Just be patient.
A GRATEFUL HEART
Leah expresses gratitude for the support and guidance she has received from her own mother and mother-in-law.
They have been instrumental in helping me grow as a mom. Whether it was advice or just some useful information, I appreciate them both for being Gabriel’s community of grandmas.
As Leah continues to navigate the beautiful complexities of motherhood, she finds joy in the small moments and the profound impact she has on her son’s life.
