Hi, I’m Shelly Lucas, founder of Daisy Perinatal. When I had my first baby, my husband was building a successful business, and life seemed to be falling into place. But inside, I was overwhelmed. My baby wanted to be held constantly. I’d spend hours in the living room with her, stuck in my head and feeling so alone.

I’d go days without showering. Making a meal or carrying on a conversation felt impossible. Night after night, I sat in the rocking chair with her, too tired to move but too scared to let go. I was afraid of dropping her, afraid of saying the wrong thing, afraid of admitting I needed help.

To make things harder, I had a traumatic birth experience that left me with lingering physical and emotional wounds. I carried shame, exhaustion, and guilt because I wanted this baby so badly. And yet, I felt lost.

Looking back, I wish I had known how to ask for support: someone to process my feelings with, someone who could see me and remind me that my needs mattered, too.

If you were sitting across the table from me, I’d slide you a warm mug of coffee and squeeze your hand. I’d remind you: You’re not failing. You’re adjusting. And you’re not alone.