Single Mom Carries Disabled Son on Her Back Traveling Around the World To FulFill Promises To Her Little Boy

Niki Antram lives with her son, Jimmy Antram, in Sunshine Coast, a peri-urban region in southeast Queensland, Australia. The story of this mother-son duo is unusual and heartwarming, depicting a single parent’s undying and unwavering commitment to her child.

As humans, having a growing sense of adventure and craving exciting experiences doesn’t sound unlikely; but in the case of the Antrams, it became the one thing that strengthened their connection and gave their lives a whole new meaning.

Niki was not yet 17 when she took Jimmy into her heart and home. It was only a matter of time before she realized her sweet boy was mentally and physically challenged and needed 24/7 intensive care and attention. Thanks to his mum’s support and help, Jimmy can even walk short distances. When Jimmy was two months old, Nicky discovered he was blind.

As a new mom and teen who knew little or nothing about motherhood, she didn’t fully understand the gravity of the situation and the long-term impact on her and Jimmy’s lives.

Nearly six months later, the Queensland woman discovered her beloved boy had epilepsy. But despite everything, she vowed not to give up in the face of difficulties and made a promise to herself and her son.

It was a promise she intended to keep, no matter what came her way. Not wanting her boy to miss out on anything, she promised to give him the best life she possibly could—a life filled with fun, adventures, and new experiences.

Niki and Jimmy have traveled to amazing places like Bali and Hawaii together, and are planning a trip to Canada as the coronavirus pandemic sweeps the globe, resulting in travel restrictions. Until international borders reopen, Nicki said she plans to explore Australia with Jimmy as her travel companion.

For several years, Nikki has traveled the world with her son on her back, sometimes through the wilderness and sometimes through the mountains. The Sunshine Coast family has a collection of photos and videos that perfectly sums up their unique travel diary.

Seeing the World through His Mom’s Eyes

Although Jimmy has a wheelchair he can use while accompanying his mom on their many adventures, Niki says she doesn’t like using it. She adds that she will keep carrying her boy until she is strong enough to support his weight. Jimmy can even travel short distances on foot thanks to his mother’s support and assistance.

Over time, Niki has mastered the art of piggybacking her son and pulling her luggage through the airport simultaneously until the staff provides them with a wheelchair so they can quickly board the flight.

Before they can make the most of their time together, Niki plans everything thoroughly, including an itinerary and schedule for their journey. The dedicated mom also ensures she has abundant clothes, diapers, pillow covers, and bed sheets for long trips.

While they are generally well received and warmly welcomed wherever they go, Niki also gives a heads-up to resorts, eateries, and hotels so they can make necessary arrangements to facilitate their stay, given Jimmy’s condition.

Looking back on their most memorable journey, the Queensland resident noted that she would never forget their time in Hawaii because everybody wanted Jimmy to join them and explore the place.

Niki and Jimmy make the best travel buddies because they share similar interests and preferences. According to Niki, her son is always in his element when he’s near the water or about to start a new adventure.

When she’s working, some carers look after Jimmy and ensure he’s well taken care of. Niki confesses that she often questions how she can feel sad after looking at her son, who has never known colors or seen clouds or rainbows and still finds a reason to smile.

The doting mom says that her beloved boy inspires her to be a better person with his big bright smile. “He doesn’t see me in a conventional way, but I’m sure he has a vision of what I look like in his mind,” she adds.