I was at my breaking point, feeling hopeless and overwhelmed, trying to secure full Medicaid coverage for my son, Collin. He had a $1,000 monthly cost-share (like a deductible) with Medicaid, which felt impossible. That’s when John Langan with Advocates for Adult Children with Intellectual Disabilities (AACID) suggested I reach out to Peg O’Malley for help. Peg, much like my friends with Advancing Families & Individuals Needing Services (AFINS), really understands Florida’s agencies and processes. She listened to me, guided me, and helped me regain some hope.

At one point, I asked Peg, “How many other families are struggling like this and will continue to struggle in the future? Let’s start a group.” Peg agreed, and that’s how Mom2Mom began.

We began spreading the word through friends in Special Friends Bowling and Dancing Friends. We had two meetings before COVID hit, but we didn’t let that stop us. We kept meeting outdoor in parks and continue meeting once a month. 

Today, our group has grown to nearly 80 supportive women, and we’re always happy to welcome new members.

MOM2MOM is a support group for mothers with special needs children. They meet once a month at different restaurants and on a different days to vary the schedule to try to accommodate moms attending. All Villages and non-Villages moms are invited. For more information, contact Jean Gallagher or Peg O’Malley.

Story by Jean Gallagher