In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the untold journey of NICU parents, gaining insights and understanding into their unique experiences.

Uncover the challenges of medically complex pregnancies, and learn strategies for navigating this complex journey with support and resilience.

Explore the support systems available for medical motherhood, and find out how to build a network of understanding and empowerment.

Gain invaluable insights and practical tips for navigating the complexities of special needs parenting, empowering you to advocate for your child's unique needs.

Learn the art of accepting uncertainty in medical diagnoses, finding peace and strength in the face of the unknown.

Hannah Parsons is the guest on this week's episode of Child Life On Call. She shares her personal journey as a mother to a child with Vactrel Association. Hannah has a diverse background, starting out as an actor and comedian before transitioning into editing and stagecraft. Living in Los Angeles with her husband and two-year-old son, Obie, Hannah has faced numerous challenges and complexities throughout her son's medical journey. From navigating a unique pregnancy without insurance to experiencing the unexpected during childbirth, Hannah's story sheds light on the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood and medical motherhood. Her determination, resilience, and unwavering belief in her son's well-being are truly inspiring. Tune in to hear Hannah's incredible journey and gain insights into the realities of special needs parenting.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction

00:02:05 - Pregnancy and Diagnosis

00:06:14 - Birth and Initial Diagnosis

00:10:24 - Navigating the NICU

00:13:48 - Transitioning to Home

00:17:45 - Challenging Medical Conditions

00:19:20 - Unwanted Medical Procedure

00:23:37 - Feeling Unsafe and Disappointed

00:25:02 - Acts of Kindness and Support

00:26:33 - The Impact of NICU Nurses

00:34:54 - Gratitude for a Healthy Child

00:35:45 - Need for Resources and Support

00:36:50 - Navigating Post-Hospital Care

00:37:59 - Importance of Resources and Podcasts

00:45:12 - Diagnosis and Acceptance

 

Connect with Hannah here. 

 

Whether you are a parent or professional, we want you to join our community. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Parents, download our free parent starter kit.

When you download our starter kit, you’ll learn how to:

Give medicine to your child without it becoming a wrestling match

Prepare your child (and yourself) for a shot so they can feel less anxious

Create and use a coping plan for any medical appointment or procedure

The first sign of sniffles, or worse, shouldn’t send you into a tailspin. Feel confident in your role as a parent and advocate, no matter what medical situation you’re facing.

Child life specialists, get affordable PDUs on-demand here.

Shop for your CLOC gear here.

 

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the untold journey of NICU parents, gaining insights and understanding into their unique experiences.

Uncover the challenges of medically complex pregnancies, and learn strategies for navigating this complex journey with support and resilience.

Explore the support systems available for medical motherhood, and find out how to build a network of understanding and empowerment.

Gain invaluable insights and practical tips for navigating the complexities of special needs parenting, empowering you to advocate for your child's unique needs.

Learn the art of accepting uncertainty in medical diagnoses, finding peace and strength in the face of the unknown.

Hannah Parsons is the guest on this week's episode of Child Life On Call. She shares her personal journey as a mother to a child with Vactrel Association. Hannah has a diverse background, starting out as an actor and comedian before transitioning into editing and stagecraft. Living in Los Angeles with her husband and two-year-old son, Obie, Hannah has faced numerous challenges and complexities throughout her son's medical journey. From navigating a unique pregnancy without insurance to experiencing the unexpected during childbirth, Hannah's story sheds light on the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood and medical motherhood. Her determination, resilience, and unwavering belief in her son's well-being are truly inspiring. Tune in to hear Hannah's incredible journey and gain insights into the realities of special needs parenting.

The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:05 - Pregnancy and Diagnosis 00:06:14 - Birth and Initial Diagnosis 00:10:24 - Navigating the NICU 00:13:48 - Transitioning to Home 00:17:45 - Challenging Medical Conditions 00:19:20 - Unwanted Medical Procedure 00:23:37 - Feeling Unsafe and Disappointed 00:25:02 - Acts of Kindness and Support 00:26:33 - The Impact of NICU Nurses 00:34:54 - Gratitude for a Healthy Child 00:35:45 - Need for Resources and Support 00:36:50 - Navigating Post-Hospital Care 00:37:59 - Importance of Resources and Podcasts 00:45:12 - Diagnosis and Acceptance

 

Connect with Hannah here. 

 

Whether you are a parent or professional, we want you to join our community. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Parents, download our free parent starter kit.

When you download our starter kit, you’ll learn how to:

Give medicine to your child without it becoming a wrestling match

Prepare your child (and yourself) for a shot so they can feel less anxious

Create and use a coping plan for any medical appointment or procedure

The first sign of sniffles, or worse, shouldn’t send you into a tailspin. Feel confident in your role as a parent and advocate, no matter what medical situation you’re facing.

Child life specialists, get affordable PDUs on-demand here.

Shop for your CLOC gear here.