This story and the accompanying video were originally published by The New Bedford Light on May 10, 2023. We are republishing it today as a tribute to all moms on Mother’s Day weekend.
Motherhood is a universally transformative experience that brings boundless joy, love, and sacrifice. However, there is no road map to follow. Mothers find their way and experience this journey by dealing with fears and changes.
The Light celebrates Mother’s Day by sharing the stories of Carina Marshall, Audra Andrade, Claire Martin, Lisa Guillemette, and Mariangelis Baez Rivera — five mothers from New Bedford who have experienced motherhood in their unique way.
They open up about everything from unconditional love for their children, how they dealt with the weight of others’ opinions, the challenges of being single parents, and a feeling of apprehension that will never end.


