The creation of urbanmoms.ca was motivated by a very significant and life changing event in my life. Madeleine, my cousin and friend, was 31 years old and mother to 3 year old Matthew and 1 year old Ella. Sadly, Maddy lost her courageous battle with cancer in November 2004. This site honours her memory as well as everything she was and gave to those who knew her.
When Madeleine passed away she gave me the gift of insight and perspective. Watching her say goodbye to her children compelled me to reflect on how sweet and remarkable every day with my family is and gave me permission to change the path I had set out for myself.
During this difficult time I was amazed and inspired by other amazing women. In planning a fund raising event for Madeleine’s children it was mainly other mothers, many of whom had never met me or Maddy, who offered to help. These moms were touched by Maddy’s story and motivated to act. They helped to raise money as well as to secure everything from the venue and food to incredible items for the silent auction. My goal was to raise $10,000 to put in trust for Maddy’s kids. Thanks to these amazing moms from across the country, we raised nearly $40,000.
It is this sense of connection and community shared among mothers regardless of our background or geography that is celebrated here. That is the driving force on urbanmoms.ca and that is how urbanmoms.ca came to be.
We also recognize here that when a woman has children she doesn't magically conform to a one-dimensional world of motherhood. Moms are individuals and the women we were before having children have not been left behind. Our worlds have expanded and the need for information and knowledge has increased. Each mother has a unique approach to parenting, to consumerism, and to life.
At urbanmoms.ca we commit to sharing our opinions and expertise by respecting our differences. There are many perspectives and views and we encourage you to contribute while keeping an open mind. Enjoy!
Jen Maier
Founder, urbanmoms.ca
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