Suburban Mom Relocates Family to N.Y.C. to Pursue Passion Despite Postpartum Struggles: 'Believe in Yourself' (Exclusive)

Grace Morgan, an actress and mother of two from Fishers, Indiana, never imagined leaving New York City after her initial move in 2012. I never planned on leaving, she says. However, in 2019, Grace and her husband, Daniel Berryman, decided to return to her hometown to provide stability for their growing family.

Grace recalls her early years in New York: When I moved at 22, my husband and I were both actors, enjoying some success. I played Christine Daae in The Phantom of the Opera National Tour, and Daniel was performing in Les Misrables.

After the birth of their first son in 2018, Grace prioritized being closer to family and having more space. The family relocated approximately 700 miles to Fishers, Indiana. Living in the suburbs was incredibly challenging, especially during COVID. I felt isolated and missed my friends and the energy of New York, she admits.

The arrival of their second son less than a year later brought additional struggles. Initially thinking she faced postpartum depression, Grace later discovered she had undiagnosed ADHD. The quiet of the suburbs made me feel scattered, and the repetitive nature of motherhood was tough for me with ADHD, she explains.

Recognizing that New York City provided the stimulation and focus she thrived on, Grace and Daniel decided to move their family back to Manhattans Upper West Side in March 2022. Adjusting to the citys costs has been a challenge, but morning walks in Central Park and spontaneous Broadway shows more than make up for it, she says.

Though she initially worried her children would miss the large home and backyard, they adapted quickly. Once we settled into our apartment, I knew wed thrive here. The citys energy gives me a sense of calm and possibility. It attracts dreamers, and that community is incredible, Grace shares.

With her children now in elementary school, Grace has been able to focus on auditions, networking, and her creative passions. Being surrounded by talented peers and immersing herself in the citys opportunities has significantly improved her mental well-being. Where you parent matters because my mood directly affects my kids. When I feel joy, so do they, she says.

Since returning, Grace has performed in Titanic at New York City Center, collaborated with Broadway stars in cabaret venues, toured nationally with symphonies, recorded vocals for major films, booked her first commercial, and co-founded The Upper West Side Childrens Choir with her husband.

I want to show my children that following your dreams is possible and that no mom should feel she has to give up her passion because of motherhood. It might require creative planning, but it can be done, Grace emphasizes.

Author: Gavin Porter