Dinner an opportunity for support and advice
Mums with Special Angels (Cyprus) is holding its next meeting for mothers of children with special needs on Friday, with all welcome.
Until recently, the group would meet at the toy library with their children, but the format has now changed to a monthly dinner for the mothers only, so that they can enjoy a relaxed evening of conversation, support and the exchange of ideas without the distraction of supervising the children.
The group was set up by Elena Papadopoulos two years ago after she moved to Cyprus from the UK. As a HR Consultant and Life Coach, mother of 6 year-old twins and a 4 year-old daughter with Downs Syndrome, Elena recognised the need for a support group like those in the UK; one where others would know they are not alone in facing the challenges that come with raising children with special needs.
There are currently around 10 mums from all districts of the island that attend the dinners – held at a different restaurant each month. They are of all nationalities, and have children of all ages with a variety of special needs including Down's Syndrome, autism, Aspergers, and many without a diagnosis.
On the evening, Elena facilitates the event so that mums can converse comfortably: "I normally split the table so that the mums can speak freely in their preferred language. They talk about all sorts of topics from therapies and emotional support to finances and siblings. It's basically a place where mums can talk freely and leave feeling that they are not on their own."
The group is having a real impact on the mothers that attend, as it is a valuable opportunity to talk to people who understand the issues affecting parents of special needs children, and there is even sometimes a therapist at the dinner who offers free advice and support. Elena is keen to stress that it's about support and empowerment: "The mums are a bunch of positive ladies trying to do their best for their kids, we want to make a positive difference and help our kids have a better life here in Cyprus, or wherever they want to live."
One mum of a 6 year-old autistic boy says of the experience: "Other than a great meal, I got to meet other mums that understand exactly what it feels like to have a child like mine. We discussed similar traits and differences between our children; strategies that worked or that we have tried out. We had a good old laugh at the horror stories and swapped information on doctors/therapists and diagnosis. I always leave with a great feeling of not being alone in all this". Another says: "It's a lovely evening meeting people in a similar situation to yourself, and it so nice to be with people that know what you go through on a daily basis. You leave feeling you are not alone – it's a mums therapy session."
Aside from the monthly dinners, there is also a Facebook page -Mums with Special Angels (Cyprus) – where dads are also welcomed. The group offers information and exchanges between members, as well as posts from therapists and other professionals, with all languages welcome.
Elena is always looking for volunteers who can offer their time to help the group for a few hours a week, as anyone who can offer ideas and/or activities for the children or mums.
This month's dinner will take place at 7.30pm at The Balti House, Dhekelia Road, Oroklini and costs are split between the ladies, normally around €25 per person.
You can contact Elena on: 96767625 / elenavik@hotmail.com for more information, to attend the dinner, or offer your time and help.
