Motherhood On Trial: A Story of Trauma, Resilience, and the Power of Connection
- Chelsea Myers
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
When Motherhood Begins with Trauma
For Jeaneen Tang, becoming a mom wasn’t part of some long-held dream. As a happy auntie and speech-language pathologist, she was content. But when her son Che was born via emergency C-section, her life changed in ways she couldn’t have imagined.
From the start, her experience with motherhood was marked by medical complications, a lack of postpartum support, and the emotional toll of parenting mostly alone.
“You get so far—almost to the finish line—and then they say you have to stop. That’s what the C-section felt like.” — Jeaneen Tang
A Fall, a Brain Injury, and a Life Turned Upside Down
At just 13 months old, Che fell from a low bed. The fall caused a traumatic brain injury that resulted in a craniotomy, a stroke, and vision loss. Doctors warned that Che might never walk or talk. But the nightmare didn't stop there.
“Not only was my child fighting for his life, but I was fighting to be his mother.”
A social worker accused Jeaneen of being “a cold-hearted mother” when she asked for space to process what was happening. That moment triggered a 20-month custody battle, where Jeaneen was not allowed to be alone with her child.
Motherhood on Trial—Literally
Wrongly accused and navigating a confusing legal system, Jeaneen had to prove her worthiness as a mother. She went to therapy, parenting classes, and endured months of surveillance—all while showing up for Che’s healing. Her support system? A few trusted friends, a compassionate social worker, and her unwavering maternal instinct.
“I always say that was the darkest part of my life. If I can get through that, I can get through anything.”
Rebuilding Connection Through Routine and Love
Despite legal limitations, Jeaneen never let go of her connection to Che. She maintained daily routines, breastfed when allowed, and made sure he woke up and went to bed seeing her face.
Now 12, Che is walking, talking, and thriving—thanks to years of therapies, inclusive education, and the fierce advocacy of his mother.
“He still sleeps in my bed. And you know what? He sleeps better. That’s what matters to me.”
What Her Story Teaches Us About Motherhood
Jeaneen’s story is a powerful reminder that motherhood is rarely simple. It’s shaped by love, grief, injustice, and resilience. And sometimes, it’s literally put on trial.
Be sure to check out Jeaneen's episode here.
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