Moms Find Rest, Renewal and Connection

Every mother needs time to relax and recharge. To help support mothers of special needs children, Friendship Circle created a unique and inspiring Mom’s Shabbaton weekend, filled with pampering and meaningful opportunities to connect.

“Moms absolutely need this time to themselves,” said Donna Shoengold, whose 45-year-old son Jeffrey has attended Friendship Circle programs for the past six years. “It’s a wonderful respite for us to talk to other mothers who are going through something similar.”

On Friday, November 14, the festivities kicked off with a Spa Lunch, complete with manicures, massages, hair styling, and a DIY body scrub station. Forty Friendship Circle mothers arrived at LifeTown for the event, eager for a chance to unwind and enjoy some well-deserved self-care.

“It’s really a wonderful feeling for the attention to be centered on me,” said Barbara Young. “It’s very different from what’s normal in my life. I think it’s great that Friendship Circle focuses on caregivers and moms. I had my nails done and it’s so nice to take a break.”

A break from routine is imperative for mothers of children with special needs. That much-needed time gives them the opportunity to replenish their own well, both physically and emotionally.

“I loved meeting other moms today and hearing their stories about their children, knowing I’m not alone in this journey,” said Sharon Leshetz. “Friendship Circle means the world to me. Within five minutes of walking through the doors, I feel at home.”

Sandie Fine, whose 20-year-old son Derek has been participating in Friendship Circle programs since he was little, added, “It means everything to be able to have a mom’s spa day because I would never get it otherwise. I would never go for a massage or do any of this for myself. I just don’t have the time.”

After a delicious lunch of salmon, salad, soup and a sweet dessert, the women settled into their seats for an inspiring talk led by Rebbetzin Goldie Plotkin. A renowned speaker, marriage coach and Chabad emissary from Toronto, Plotkin is also the proud mother of Zalmy, a special child with a truly special soul. She spoke to the women about the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with special needs.

“I want to give the mothers the message that they should not only have hope, but that they should be very proud,” said Plotkin. “When you have a child with special needs, it is so clear that we are here to raise a gem, one that sometimes the world doesn’t take at face value. G-d chose you to be the parent of these special children. Embrace it, cherish it and be proud.”

The Spa Lunch was just the beginning of a weekend filled with fun and meaningful experiences. The women created beautiful flower arrangements and then prepared for Shabbat at the home of Friendship Circle Director Toba Grossbaum. Plotkin and a group of women enjoyed an intimate evening enhanced by a homemade Shabbat dinner. Laughter and tears were shared as the women empathized with one another’s experiences and journeys.

On Shabbat day, the women gathered once again for a special Shabbat lunch, graciously hosted by Esty Grossbaum, Friendship Circle’s program coordinator. The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere allowed the mothers to continue bonding, sharing reflections and drawing strength from one another in a calm and uplifting setting.

“I can tell you as a mother who needed the break, this respite is essential. In order to be able to give, you need the ability to nurture yourself,” said Plotkin. “That’s what this Shabbat was about. It was nurturing moms who are constantly giving, 24/7. This Shabbat gave them a chance to be replenished and to laugh, cry and come together with like-minded people.”

The weekend concluded on an uplifting note with a musical Havdalah ceremony, filling the room with melody, emotion and a sense of renewed strength as the mothers transitioned back into their daily roles refreshed and inspired.

“It was incredible and a wonderful opportunity to share,” said Lori Saunders. “Goldie was a dynamic and inspiring speaker. She was a joy to converse with and listen to. Friendship Circle impacts so many people’s lives. I am eternally indebted.”