Rebecca Adlington has strongly responded to a mum guilt shamer who criticized her for treating herself to a manicure after giving birth to her daughter, Thea Joy. The 37-year-old Olympic swimmer welcomed her third child, Thea, earlier this month following two devastating miscarriages over the past three years.
On Thursday, Rebecca shared her experience of going for a manicure while her newborn daughter was struggling with a crying fit. After trying to breastfeed one-handed, Rebecca posted on Instagram about the lovely woman in the salon who stepped in to help care for Thea, allowing her to enjoy some much-needed pampering.
Rebecca wrote: “Her kindness and taking time out of her day was so lovely. I know it seems small, but it’s the first thing I’ve done for me in a long time. A huge thank you to her.”
However, one follower’s comment focused more on the idea of “mum guilt,” accusing Rebecca of being selfish for putting herself first. The comment suggested that “kids should always come first,” and the user confessed they would feel guilty if they were in Rebecca’s position.
Rebecca shared the message on her Instagram, admitting that it made her sad. She voiced her frustration about the unfair narrative that mothers always need to put their children ahead of themselves, and in doing so, she challenged the concept of “mum guilt.”
She replied: “Yesterday I got this message after I posted about my nails. I wouldn’t normally share this, but it made me sad. I didn’t choose to have another child… WE chose to have another child. Why is it mums feel guilty and not ‘we feel guilty’? I relate to this lady so much as I’m sure many of you do, but I want to be better at looking after you, you will be a better parent.”
Rebecca’s post struck a chord with many of her followers who offered support, encouraging self-care for mothers and reminding them that looking after their own well-being is crucial to being the best parent possible.
Earlier this month, Rebecca revealed the bittersweet moment when she gave birth to her “rainbow baby,” Thea Joy, on the same day that her grandmother, Joyce, passed away. In an emotional tribute, Rebecca explained the full-circle moment, naming her daughter after her grandmother.
Rebecca already shares a two-year-old son, Albie, with her husband Andy Parsons, and a daughter, Summer, aged eight, from her previous marriage to ex-husband Harry Needs. She wrote on Instagram: “What a rollercoaster this whole experience has been. Three years, two miscarriages, 39 weeks carrying our magical rainbow girl, and 87 hours in hospital. Thea Joy Parsons arrived on 28th February, the very same day my nana, Joyce, passed away. A true full circle moment of life. Joy is a nod to her, and we know Thea will bring us all so much joy.”
Rebecca’s emotional post highlighted the challenges of motherhood, especially after multiple miscarriages, and the joy of finally welcoming her healthy daughter into the world. She shared her gratitude for the support she received from her family and fans during this difficult journey.
Rebecca’s experience of balancing her role as a mother with her need for self-care serves as an important reminder that it’s okay for parents, especially mothers, to take time for themselves. It’s clear that Rebecca is advocating for a healthier approach to motherhood—one that prioritizes mental and emotional well-being, which, in turn, helps parents be more present and loving for their children.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
