Jessica Patay

In 2017, Jessica Patay founded We Are Brave Together, a nonprofit organization that supports almost 4,000 caregiving moms around the world who are caring for children with any diagnosis, disability or neurodivergence. Jessica and her team offer support including group meetings, educational workshops, retreats and social activities, as well as podcasts, newsletters and social media platforms. Recently she released the book Becoming Brave Together to raise awareness about parent caregivers.

Share a pivotal moment that inspired you to start your business.

In 2003, my son Ryan’s diagnosis with Prader-Willi syndrome launched me into an unfamiliar world of disability and rare disease. I discovered the power of community, surrounded by fellow caregiving mothers who became mentors and offered resources and support that would prove essential to our journey. I wanted the powerful commodity for every mom like me experiencing altered motherhood, which led to my creating We Are Brave Together.

Tell us about a time when you felt like giving up. what motivated you to keep going?

During the 2020–2021 pandemic, my family faced an avalanche of crises that pushed me to my limits—personally and professionally. Looking back, I realize I was running on empty and probably should have stepped away to recover. But I knew that other caregiving mothers in our community, already struggling with isolation, were now drowning in loneliness. School shutdowns. Forced homeschooling. There, I shifted. With an unconditional focus to be there for them, virtual services became our saving embrace.

What belief about yourself did you have to let go so you could become the woman you are today?

Being a good mother doesn’t require martyrdom. I had to release unrealistic expectations and perfectionism, or I would suffer and my family would suffer. Once I took this important step, I made it a central part of who I am today—an unconditional “permission-giver” to fellow mothers. I urge them to forsake martyr-motherhood and engage in true self-care, carving out sacred time for life-giving relationships and community.  

Photographed by Anita V Studio