How do you balance being a mom of two with your pharmaceutical sales career?
Stephanie: Balancing work and being a mom of two can be challenging at times. There are so many things that come along with both obligations. But I manage the responsibilities as carefully as I can. Sometimes, work can interfere with my schedule; however, I do everything possible to put the girls first and work second. If I stick to that motto, everything falls into place.
How did you encourage your daughters Mary Olive and Millie to pursue their passions with tennis, equestrian, softball, and volleyball?
Stephanie: I was an athlete growing up, and it was important to my husband and me that they get involved in team activities. Sports teach many life lessons that they will carry with them throughout life. All the sports keep us busy, but we love it, and our girls love it, too.
Your daughter Millie was diagnosed with Down syndrome. What advice would you give other moms who struggle with some of the challenges of being a caretaker?
Stephanie: My advice would be to take one day at a time. When you start to feel overwhelmed, stop and take a breath. It’s okay to slow down and refocus yourself when you feel anxious or defeated. It’s normal, so give yourself grace for being human. Motherhood comes with a lot of responsibilities, and having a child with Down syndrome, there are adjustments that I make. I would also encourage moms to take time for themselves. When I am healthy physically and mentally, I feel like I can give my children my best self.
How has serving with the River Region Down Syndrome support group and being a board member with MANE impacted your life?
Stephanie: When Millie was younger, we were very involved with the Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Support Group. As she got older, she got involved with riding horses at MANE. I started getting more involved there and serving on the Board of Directors. MANE has been a big part of our lives for the last few years and is one of the best programs within the River Region.
How did having a daughter with special needs give you a different perspective on life?
Stephanie: When Millie was born, we were scared and unsure of what to expect. I worried so much about her health and what her future would be like. She has taught us so much. Honestly, we all became closer as a family and feel so blessed to have her. She is pure sunshine and spreads so much love.
What do you do for self-care as you navigate motherhood?
Stephanie Self-care is valuable to me. It can improve your physical and mental health, and that’s also important to me. I try to incorporate it into my life as often as I can. Not only does it help me physically, but mentally as well. I love to read, and it gives me a mental break from the business of daily life. I also like to walk. Walking seems to put me at peace and gives me mental clarity.
How do you manage your daughters attending separate schools?
Stephanie: My husband and I are a team. We divide and conquer when it comes to getting the girls to school and picking them up from activities. Two different schools can be challenging to manage, but it has worked well for our family, and the girls have thrived in their separate environments.
What is the best motherhood advice that you’ve ever received?
Stephanie: Probably the best advice I ever received was always to tell my kids I love them. It helps them feel safe, secure, and comforted, as well as helps them build self-esteem and healthy relationships and connections with others. I sometimes laugh at myself at how often I say that, but they will always know they have my heart. I want them to know that I will always love them unconditionally.
Rapid Fire Questions
Favorite family activity? Being together at Lake Martin.
One thing that makes you feel like yourself?
When I can take time to be with my friends and laugh.
Favorite holiday? Christmas
Favorite meal? I love fresh veggies, cornbread, and fried chicken.
Favorite phrase? Spread love everywhere you go.
Stephanie Maddox has been married to David Maddox for 19 years. They have two daughters: Mary Olive (16) and Millie (14). The family resides in Pike Road.
