A Mother’s Love: Caring for a Child Living with Down Syndrome

This Women's Month, check out Yeye de los Santos' story, a Ka-Globe from Network Technical Group and a mother of 2, Rhiana Allyson and Raia Francesca.

Raia Francesca, or Raia as she fondly call her, is a special needs child living with Down Syndrome and diagnosed with Global Developmental Delay. Read how Yeye is able to be the mother Raia needs, while balancing life being a Ka-Globe.

Yeye, with her husband Ruel, and daughters Rhiana & Raia.

The experience of being a working mother at Globe while caring for my children, especially my child with special needs, has been both rewarding and challenging. It requires a constant balancing act, unwavering dedication, resilience, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities gracefully and efficiently.

Our family dynamic is built on a foundation of traditional values, where kindness and open communication are paramount. We strive to foster an environment where every family member feels supported, understood, and respected.  Raia's entrance into our lives has been nothing short of a divine revelation, unveiling the boundless extent of God's benevolence and steadfast love.

Raia with her favorite pose.

The challenges she faces, including Down Syndrome and a congenital heart condition necessitating surgery in her infancy, have not diminished our faith but rather served as a crucible, refining and strengthening our belief in God's unwavering presence.  Raia's life is a constant reminder that God's plans are not always our plans, but they are always good. Her presence in our lives has enriched us beyond measure, teaching us about love, patience, faith, and the true meaning of acceptance. We are eternally grateful for the gift of Raia, and we look forward to witnessing the incredible impact she will undoubtedly have on the world.

My sincerest appreciation to all Ka-Globe who helped during Raia’s heart surgery during her infancy – we owe her life to you. I may not know all of you but Raia and our whole family are forever grateful.

Yeye & Raia on a boat, safety first like our Ka-NTG in the field!

I derive immense satisfaction from pursuing a fulfilling career that allows me to contribute to my Ka-NTG (Network Technical Group) while also being present for my children's milestones and everyday moments. The flexibility and support provided by Globe have been invaluable in enabling me to balance my professional and personal life effectively.

At Globe, I've found a workplace that truly values family and understands the unique challenges of working mothers.

Yeye with her teammates in the People, Culture and Change Management team in the Network Technical Group.

The pressure to excel in both my professional and personal roles can be overwhelming at times, and I sometimes feel torn between my responsibilities. I feel guilty when I can't spend enough time with my children, especially with Raia. Not being able to converse with her as much as I'd like has impacted her speech development, which is one of the challenges I face.

Trick or Treat at The Globe Tower with Rhiana & Raia

At Globe, I've found a workplace that truly values family and understands the unique challenges of working mothers. The flexibility and support from my manager and team have been instrumental in achieving a work-life balance. The company's family-friendly policies have made a difference in managing my responsibilities as a mother. My sincerest appreciation to all Ka-Globe who helped during Raia’s heart surgery during her infancy – we owe her life to you. I may not know all of you but Raia and our whole family are forever grateful.

"Thank you Ka-Globe!"

To all the mothers out there, especially those juggling a career and raising a child with special needs, know that you are strong, capable, and amazing. It's not an easy journey, but it's one filled with immense love, growth, and fulfillment. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything.

Remember to be kind to yourself, celebrate your victories, and don't be afraid to ask for help. You are not alone, and you have the power to inspire others through your unwavering dedication and love.

Thanks for reading my story!

Like Yeye's story about motherhood this woman's month? Click the heart and comment below your own experiences of a mother's love!

Read more about Ka-Globe's Women's Month Stories.