# @kelliegerardi on Instagram

- **Type:** Video
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DYj8zqquvpy
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/65624539-kelliegerardi-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/128640058c.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-05-20T13:31:46.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Kellie Gerardi (@kelliegerardi) — https://gondola.cc/kelliegerardi

## Caption

I want to keep reminding everyone (and myself) that this return to work timeline is and was my choosing and there’s no external pressure on me. And I also know what a privilege that is. 

The reality is that I already missed so much training during back-to-back IVF cycles, pregnancies, loss, medical complications etc. and I don’t want to miss our next campaign. I’m also PI for a study that’s very meaningful to me, so I’m extra motivated. I’m going to spend a week with the science team, operate some exciting research in microgravity, and then I’m going to be taking some more time off after that over the summer to escape to Vermont with my parents and really soak in the time with my girls.☀️⛰️

I just want to put this out there now because I have a lot of hormonal feelings about my readiness every day and while I’m steadfast in my decision, I sometimes feel extra pangs of guilt when I hear comments like “I could never fathom leaving my baby so early….”. I’m grateful to be in a position where I’m returning because I’m passionate about what I do, and not because I’m forced to. But that doesn’t mean the tradeoffs can’t still feel difficult. 

I also understand that there a number of women who would always choose very differently, and who might not be able to comprehend how I could fight so hard for motherhood and also be willing to travel for work so early. I assure you the motivation comes from a fiercely deepened love for my girls and the futures I want them to see possible for themselves. 🤍

#postpartum #returntowork #worklifebalance #workingmom

## Stats

- **Views:** 8,374
- **Likes:** 26,348
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 374

## Credits

| Name | Username | Profile | Role |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Kellie Gerardi | @kelliegerardi | https://gondola.cc/kelliegerardi | Influencer |

## Tags

returntowork, worklifebalance, workingmom, postpartum

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