Nothing like a mother instinct
Did anyone catch Lauren’s story in eastenders this week, including tonight’s episode on 25th May 2025? If not, you can always catch it on BBC iPlayer. But I want to share her story here, because it’s a powerful reminder of something many parents know all too well — the importance of trusting your gut.
Now, I should clarify: Lauren is a fictional character created for this story. But her experience is inspired by countless real stories shared by parents around the world. Her journey highlights the struggles, doubts, and ultimate validation that come when a mother’s instincts are ignored for too long.
I wont ruin it, for those that havnt tuned in but the story resinates with me and my journey with finn (my youngest of 4). From the moment he was born, i sensed that something wasn’t quite right. Despite my love and concern, everyone — including professionals — dismissed my worries. "He’s just autistic traits," they’d say, brushing off her concerns. But i knew better. I've watched as Finn’s development lagged further behind, and our parentsl instincts told us there was more to the story.
We pointed out behaviors we believed were significant — things that others dismissed as quirks or stims. The frustration of feeling unheard grew daily. It was heartbreaking to feel dismissed, to feel like my voice didn’t matter when i knew deep down that something was wrong.
It wasn’t until Finn was suppose to be preparing for y2 but technically isnt capable to move from reception for a second running year. Thankfully his amazing mainstream are providing a mini provision between y2 and y1 which means he can access specialised provision eith his 2 year group class friends. It wasn't until last month that things finally started to change. He is finally undergoing testing for epilepsy — a step that should have happened years earlier. And now, the pieces are slowly coming together. The delays, the behaviors, the stimming — they might not just be “autistic traits” after all. There could be more underneath. Although not formally diagnosed yet we undergo the second part of his testing at the end of the month.
Listening to Lauren’s story, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own experiences. I’ve had moments where I knew something wasn’t right with my children, only for my concerns to be dismissed time and again. The sleepless nights, the endless questioning, the feeling of being ignored — it all hits close to home.
Her story reminds us of a vital truth: our instincts as parents are valid. Our observations, our worries — they are part of the puzzle that can lead to early intervention and better outcomes. We shouldn’t have to fight so hard just to be heard.
Many parents feel they need to advocate fiercely just to get the help their children deserve. We shouldn’t have to justify our feelings or wait years for answers that could make a difference.
Lauren’s story is a call to action: We need to listen more, trust more, and stand up for our children. Because behind every delay or “quirk” could be a story that needs to be uncovered — one that might change everything.
To all parents out there feeling unheard: You are not alone. Your intuition is powerful. Keep fighting, keep pushing, and never let anyone dismiss your voice. Because sometimes, trusting yourself is the first step toward giving your child the help they need.
Brown Minimalist Daily Vlog Video by Chantelle Evans