Aims. The aim of the study was to explore the essence of the lived experiences of parents of special-needs children in Pakistan. The study aimed to investigate the perspectives and real-life situations that parents of differently abled children encounter. Methods. A qualitative phenomenological methodology was employed to examine the real-world challenges parents face while trying to access and make use of resources such as healthcare, education, and other necessities. The sample included 7 parents of differently abled children. The in-depth interviews were conducted individually to explore each parent’s experiences, and purposive sampling was done. Results. The following main themes emerged from a thematic analysis of the data: discrimination in society, financial stress, lack of guidance, balancing daily responsibilities, sources of support, and parents' views. Conclusions. This study has broad implications that will help develop better policies, educational plans, and healthcare delivery methods that are adapted to the requirements of families with children who have special needs. The results can help community organizations develop more effective support systems, increase public awareness and support, and create an empathetic environment in society. Furthermore, by confirming their experiences, the study gives parents more power and establishes the foundation for future studies aimed at continuously enhancing support systems.