This is an adoption story....but not just any adoption story. Today's mama, Kelly, was born with spina bifida and she met her husband, who also has spina bifida, when they were ten years old! After coming in and out of each others lives multiple times as they grew up, they eventually married and decided to adopt. They felt especially pulled to an agency who specialized in placing children with disabilities, and this is where they heard about a set of birth parents who were about to have a little girl with spina bifida. Kelly and her husband knew it was the right match and they adopted their daughter, Hadley. It hasn't been easy, though,and Kelly shares some heartbreaking stories of discrimination they faced when adopting their daughter. She also shares specific examples of how having the same disability as her daughter will help Hadley both now and in the future. This family is AMAZING, and it was such an honor to hear their story.

You can find out more about Kelly and her family here:

People Magazine article: https://people.com/indiana-couple-proves-to-be-perfect-parents-for-adopting-child-with-spina-bifida-8762440

Good News Network article: https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/adoption-approved-for-couple-with-spina-bifida-who-lovingly-adopt-daughter-with-same-condition/?fbclid=IwY2xjawJYBJJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHZOE4DHy7vG2iO0VHFnV8M_j1yIWAw7BtjfcRGU874ZS74Q_teP89_9f3w_aem_04tH1mXRcc3g-O1Pcz9ZkQ

Jess Ronne was brave enough to ask the question: what happens when the cute little boy with profound disabilities ... grows up? I found Jess on her podcast, Coffee with Caregivers, when she and her husband were exploring this question in regards to their teenage son, Lucas, who has profound autism. As if that wasn't enough, they were also raising seven other kids. Through a lot of hard work and prayer, they were able to create Hope Farm, a group home for Lucas and three other young adults, where they have 24-hour care, but also the independence that they need. Jess shares honestly about how Lucas's disability was affecting her marriage, her home, and her other children and how they can now breathe a little easier and truly enjoy their time with Lucas. Jess is a visionary and a strong advocate for respite for caregivers. She is an author, a podcast host, founder of a non-profit, and has been involved in two documentaries - and remember, she has done all this while having eight children! I am so thankful she agreed to talk today about this very important topic that is so often avoided. I encourage you all to check out her amazing content and resources below!

IG @jessplusthemess, FB at Jessplusthemess

www.jessplusthemess.com (Click on "Books" to learn more and order all 4 books!)

www.thelucasproject.org

Coffee with Caregivers Podcast: https://anchor.fm/jess-ronneUnseen documentary: https://caregiverdoc.com/

Anita Coyle was living the chaotic motherhood life many of us understand, juggling four children and work as a physical therapist, when one day, her very healthy husband went for a swim, went into the locker room, and died. Anita, whose children ranged between 2 and 12 years old at the time, was left as the solo parent, thrust into navigating this new life while also moving through her own grief journey. She shares the raw and real moments and gives advice for others going through devastating times. She also opens up about how training for triathlons was what kept her going during that time and how she had to advocate for herself to get this time for herself each day. Beyond this, she also joins a friend to host a podcast, helping others who are traversing through widowhood. Anita is one AMAZING mama and athlete, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for her!

Find her podcast, Widow We Do Now, at https://widowwedonow.com/ and on Apple and Spotify!

Five years ago, Catherine suffered an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) during the delivery of her second daughter leading to ECMO, DIC, a stroke, and an ICU stay followed by a long recovery process that continues today. She beat terriflyingly low odds of survival and has used her journey to help others by creating her own podcast focusing on perinatal trauma where mothers can share their stories and trauma around childbirth can be openly discussed. Her story will have you on the edge of your seat as she tells how she battled each day to live.

You can find her website here: https://www.birthtraumastories.com

Check out her podcast here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/birth-trauma-stories-formerly-the-twinky-chronicles/id1616407391

You can find her on IG: @birthtraumastoriespodcast

Jennifer could never have expected how her life would change when her daugther, Allison, sprained her ankle. Doctors and physical therapists became alarmed when after 8 weeks, Allison had not improved and in fact, her foot was contracted and would no longer move. From here, Jennifer and Allison began a journey that eventually led to genetic testing and a diagnosis of dystonia, follwed by brain surgery that had a complication, leaving Allison's speech and movement more impaired. Not willing to collapse under the weight of all that had changed, both Jennifer and Allison dove in to every treatment and therapy they could find, and they have hope for improvement in the future. Jennifer shares honestly about the challenges of being disappointed in people she thought were her friends and how Allison has turned her situation around to educate and help others.

This is a POWERFUL one with a lot of lessons for all of us as we move into 2025.

Check out these links!

Allison's GoFund me to help get a wheelchair-accessible van:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/Pallisons-journey?utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link

Allison's Etsy shop:

https://www.etsy.com/shop/pallisonscreations/?etsrc=sdt&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaam4MviL_eOyJfhRQNE2BA0KO8z1VtXx99dU2YE0DuKsY1AG-RSAB-FTgo_aem_XAMHRxu-6cn01oVIvSUhlQ

Allison's Amazon Wish List:

https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/10Y5WKJUO9LPV

Billy Footwear Link: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=PALLISONS_JOURNEY

Allison's merch!

https://www.bonfire.com/store/pallisons-journey/

Allison's IG:

@pallisons_journey

Karyn checked her 8-year-old daughter, Jordyn, in for a quick, 30-minute surgery: having her tonsils and adenoids removed. Little did they know there would be a complication, leading to Jordyn ending up on ECMO, a machine doing the work of her heart and lungs, in the ICU. What was supposed to be a simple procedure left Jordyn fighting for her life and Karyn fighting for Jordyn. This story is terrifying, engaging, inspirational ... and the ending will have you cheering for Jordyn and her amazing mama.

Today's story is one of strength and perseverence during one of the hardest situations I can imagine. Britt McCabe is here to share her pregnancy and postpartum journey. She became sick around 35 weeks pregnant, which progressed to becoming fully paralyzed due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome. Her son, Ollie, was delivered by c-section, and she was immediately taken to the ICU where she stayed for several weeks, unable to move on her own. Britt spent months in hospitals and rehab, all with the goal of learning to stand and walk again so she could care for her son. To say Britt's story is inspiring is an understatement, and I'm so excited to bring it to our listeners today!

Follow Britt's journey on IG @cidpwithbritt

I had the amazing opportunity to chat with Josie about her motherhood experience. Her daughter, Journey, is 8 years old and has a rare disease called Prader-Willi syndrome. Among other symptoms, this syndrome affects Journey in that she never feels full which has led her mom and family to have to make very specific rules around mealtimes and food. Josie shares about:

- Getting her daughter's diagnosis

- Modifications she has had to make as a mom around food

- The challenges of school and learning about IEP's/504's

- The importance of inclusion and how she and her husband have created a football and cheer program that focuses on including all kids who want to join, despite any special needs or financial status

Today is the much-anticipated part TWO of Angela Diven's story about her son Layton, and his journey with Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type 3. Today, she takes us through toddlerhood with a child prone to fractures, what it was like sending him to school for the first time, how he has overcome major injury, and how he has excelled in life, including in baseball and track/field.

Follow Angela and Layton on IG @superlaytondiven

Today's story is unbelievable, and I can't wait to share it with you all today. Angela Diven joins us for the first episode of this 2-part series about her journey raising her son, Layton, who has Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type 3. OI is a collagen disorder that affects his entire body, leading to bones that easily fracture. In Part 1, we chat about pregnancy, Layton's birth and his diagnosis afterward, and what it was like having a baby who could so easily fracture, even during a simple diaper change. She also bravely shares how this affected her mental health and how medication, the help of certain healthcare professionals, and finding an OI specialty center across the country helped her move through these dark times. Angela's bravery, openness, and incredible fight to advocate for her son will leave you on the edge of your seat, ready to for Part 2 which will come out one week from today.

Follow Angela and Layton on IG @superlaytondiven

I am so impressed by Paige Calendine and her mom, Heidi, who so kindly offered to share her story today. Heidi had a big surprise at the very end of her pregnancy when she was told her daughter would be born without lower extremities. She knew, though, that her daughter would live an incredible life...and that has become an understatement. Paige is an avid gymnast who is also active in cheer and archery, competing against able-bodied peers while also working to pave the way to bring gymnastics to the Paralympics...and hoping to compete in archery in the Paralympics herself.

You can also find out more about Heidi and Paige on IG @heidi.calendine Check out Paige's documentary "Built Different" on Amazon Prime!

https://www.amazon.com/Built-Different-Paige-Calendine/dp/B0D8FLVNNK/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3P6KA2SNIK8X3&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.7Tv05Oqb9X3JFm_STPZ8DIZctRr_F3NhVuOAqYwXPw57mvWAmr4C7aevWW-VEgGSKM1OCQivUk4J1UEQ49bK3YN8eJk0FlyLERPNdw9aKT3rMAH9Q8ET50MXP0b4PCXrVwVuGREvEP6cMEVA1V9mttE5O2f-HJjxLOgKAxoIY3iXWH_OMyyqSk82917HLXaitIb_IpVWYEGAZ2__kh_a1-R0RgrdK8mjIaqEm9gbFao.XVNAuOEdBlKFr5vUersTmRAbefrFh3Q8SX_lENzEyAs&dib_tag=se&keywords=built+different+documentary&qid=1728170238&sprefix=built+different+doc%2Caps%2C131&sr=8-1

I am so thrilled to bring you today's interview with a true miracle mama, Ebony Ford. After suffering through devastating losses, Ebony became pregnant with her daughter, Reign, however a joyous time quickly turned scary when Reign had to be delivered early at 26 weeks while Ebony fought for her life, diagnosed with HELLP syndrome. Ebony has used her story to support others, and I am so honored she took time out of her busy life to chat with me today. You'll hear about:

- Moving through stillbirth and miscarriage

- HELLP syndrome and waking up in the ICU after delivering her daughter at 26 weeks

- Raising a micropreemie

- Choosing to become pregnant again after birth trauma

- All about her AMAZING community, Miracle Mamas

You can find Ebony at:

Website: www.miraclemamas.org

Miracle Mamas club: https://www.clubhouse.com/invite/dXNcg8pQrow58KnAn22K68e8oa1ph0k1y:-Guxvtj9ucUWEgi2QkAxMpdRRGHh4oUq99yvFS2hyBk Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-miracle-mama-podcast/id1605824286

When Christin was 32 weeks pregnant, she was planning to head to the airport with her toddler, 2 dogs, and 20 bags that were packed - she had been living in Japan for three years for her husband's military service and she was preparing to return to the US to get settled in before her second baby arrived. Suddenly, her plans changed and next thing she knew, she was being transferred to a different city in Japan where doctors and nurses did not speak her language, trying to understand the medical emergency that was happening as her infant daughter inside her was losing blood. Christin shares what it was like to be in a medical emergency in a different county being unable to understand the information while doctors had to work together to decide what to do to save her baby's life....and Christin's, too. In addition to being terrified about the rare medical condition, several cultural differences affected her delivery and recovery as well. This birth story is a wild ride, but hang in there until the very end to find out how it all turns out!

I am so excited to bring you today's episode! Renee Sellers in an AMAZING mama that I have gotten to know and she joins us today to share her journey with her two daughters, Opal and Lucy, who are both autistic. You wil hear about:

- How her two girls present entirely diffrerently in terms of their autism

- Myths about autism

- Potential signs of autism

- How to encouge our kids to interact with others who may have a disability

- (This one is my favorite!) Why her family celebrates diagnosis days

You can find Renee on Instagram at @rainbows__after__rain

Today is a solo episode! I wanted to share about Gavin's surgical journey for his CP. When he was 4, he had a surgery called Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy which is a 7-hour surgery where the surgeon finds the nerves leading to muscle spasticity - and severs them. Gavin then had to relearn how to sit, stand, walk, and more. A couple months later, he had a surgery to lengthen the muscles in both calves. In this episode, you'll hear about:

- What it's like to make such a terrifying medical decision

- The power of touch dogs

- When and how to advocate for your child

- Other lessons I learned along our surgical journey!

As usual, you can follow me on IG at

@mama.sisterhood

I am so happy to share this interview with you all! Today's guest is Laura Swanson who is the mom to an AMAZING girl named Harper. Harper had her first seizure the day of her 5th birthday party, and Laura shares their journey and how this has affected her as a mom. You will hear about:

- What it's like having a child with epilepsy

- How this has affected her mental health, particularly anxiety and OCD

- The importance of advocating for your child

- The need for self-care and expressing your needs as a mom (ALL moms, not just those of kids with medical needs)

Check out Laura's IG page at @lifewith.laurajessica

Today, I'm happy to share my interview with Ashley, whose 8-year-old daughter, Sadie, has been diagnosed with a rare disease called Sanfilippo Syndrome. Sanfilippo, as described by Ashley, is similar to dementia or Alzheimer's, but in children. In this episode, you will hear about: - What is Sanfilippo and how does it present in children - What has been Sadie's journey in terms of diagnosis, symptoms, and the involvement in a clinical trial - How Ashley makes sure that Sadie's life is full of travel and adventure This one is SO full of great lessons for all of us - the way Ashley approaches each day with Sadie is something we should all do! To learn more about Ashley and Sadie, you can find them on IG at @savingsadierae You can help at: https://curesanfilippofoundation.org/how-to-help/

Katrina Mullen's story is INCREDIBLE! Katrina was a mom of 5 boys, working as a NICU nurse, when she met her now-daughter, Shariya, who had just given birth at age 14 to micropreemie triplets. She bonded with the young mother and months later, when her daughter and the triplets were going to be moved to foster care, Katrina stepped in and said "yes" - to expanding her family and adopting Shariya. Katrina now has 5 boys, a daughter, and triplet grandchildren. In this unbelievable episode, you'll hear about:

- How Katrina and Shariya bonded in the hospital

- What it was like to say "yes" while being a single, working mother of five

- Shariya's amazing journey and what she is doing now

- How you can support others, such as a young mom

Happy 4th of July!

I'm so honored to have Ali DiIorio on today to share about motherhood with her husband in the Air Force. Ali is the mom of two boys, who are 3 years old and 6 months old. Her husband has been in the military for the last five years, and Ali shares how this has affected their family. You'll hear about:

- What it's like to move with kids every few years

- How she finds mom friends when she's frequently in a new place

- How being a military family has shaped her family values

- How you could help a military mom

Thank you to Ali's husband and to all other current and past members of the military for your service!

Today, I have TWO guests, Melissa and Elise, who is 6 years old. Elise is non-binary/gender fluid, and in the first part of the episode, Elise answers questions and shares thoughts while in the second half, Melissa shares experiences and advice from a parent's perspective. This episode includes:

- The importance of pronouns

- How our vocabulary is lacking necessary words and how words we commonly use can make others uncomfortable

- Advocating for your child

- Supporting your child while also giving yourself grace while you learn along with them

I am so honored to bring you my interview with Larissa Canestraight - she was one of our amazing NICU nurses and she is here today to share her own journey with her son, Blake. In this episode, Larissa shares about:

- Her journey with polyhydramnios

- A 3.5 month NICU stay and how being a NICU nurse affected her experience

- Making the hardest medical decision, infant loss, and making the most of the time you have

- Advocating for yourself and your loved ones

- The power of family and friends who go the extra mile

Thanks for listening!

Kaylee Hurt is BACK! To learn more about her journey with her daughter, Kaydee, check out Episodes 11 and 12, but today, she is here to talk about what it's like to raise her daughters on a farm! I learned so much about farm life (pros and cons), and Kaylee has SO much good advice that applies to motherhood, no matter where you live!

In this episode:

- What it's like living on her particular farm and all about calving

- What types of chores her daughters do on the farm

- The lessons her daughters have learned on the farm

- How her family makes memories in different ways than others

- How life on the farm can be incorporated into homeschool, including participation in 4H

Today, I had the opportunity to chat with Shannon Boggs, a mom of three kids 10 and under, one of whom was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes after a scary medical emergency that landed her in the ICU. Shannon also shares about her daughter's service dog, Spy!

This episode includes:

- The story of how her daughter, Raelynn, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes after landing in the ICU with severely high blood sugar

- How Raelynn and her family manage her diabetes, and how Raelynn and Shannon teach other kids not to let diabetes limit them

- How Raelynn came to have Spy, her service dog, and how Spy notices and alerts when her blood sugar is high or low

- How Shannon teaches her daughter to manage her diabetes and tips to avoid kids sneaking food/progressing to disordered eating

You can find Shannon, Raelynn, and their family here:

Tiktok, YouTube, and IG: @ouronederfulboggslife

FB: The Boggs Family

I had been looking for a mama to a child with Tourette Sydrome for a while, and I was so excited to find Katie Reall who is a mom to four kids, TWO of whom have TS. She shares about her journey with her oldest son, Sam, who is now a young adult, and then her second journey with her daughter, Annie, who has some similarities to Sam in her Tourette journey, but who also presents very differently. Katie and her family first educated themselves, then others locally such as teachers and classmates, and they now advocate for individuals with TS throughout their state and even the nation, working at camps and educating others. I learned so much from this interview not just about Tourette Syndrome, but also about how this family bonded together to fill their lives with support, laughter, and purpose.

Find out more about the camps Katie mentions here:

https://www.camptwitchandshout.org/

https://www.tourettecampusa.com/

Resources:

Tourette Association: https://tourette.org/https://www.instagram.com/touretteassociation/

Find Katie on IG https://www.instagram.com/gigispetals/

Donate here:https://secure.everyaction.com/_UenJReuik-CA5GrR0zqIg2

I can't think of a better motherhood story to begin Season 3 than Ina's story today. Ina shares with us what it was like having a daughter, Kirstin, who had a chronic kidney disease, including what it was like to donate her own kidney to her daughter when Kirstin was 5 years old. This episode includes:

- Mom to daughter kidney transplant

- Caring for a child with a chronic illness, attempting to make appointments fun, and including her other children in medical life

- The importance of family and taking care of each other

- Laughter, knitting, finding one's passions, and the importance of being kind and being a friend to those who need it most

It's the Season 2 Finale!

I can't think of a better way to end Season 2 than with the interview I did with Amanda Gurman. You might know Amanda from her podcast Honest as a Mother or from her Honest as a Mother books, where she is the lead author and each chapter is written by a different mom. Amanda shares with us about her struggles as a new mom, including her diagnosis of post-partum rage after the birth of her second child. When Amanda realized there wasn't really a safe place to discuss her real motherhood experience, she created that space with her books, podcast, and community. This interview will have you nodding along and will help you realize that you are not alone.

Amanda's Podcast: Honest as a Mother

Books:

- Honest as a Mother: Personal Essays That Will Make You Feel Like You're Not Alone in Motherhood

- Honest as a Mother - Book 2: Personal Essays That Will Make You Feel Like You're Not Alone in Motherhood Paperback

Today, I have the honor of talking with Heather Avis (author, podcaster, and speaker) about her unique and heart-warming family journey. Heather and her husband have adopted three children, two of which have Down Syndrome. Heather shares honestly about what it was like to have a plan and then to bravely say yes to a path that was definitely not part of this plan. She shares about open heart surgeries, birth family relationships, having a family with people of different races and cultures, and what makes each of her children unique and special.

Heather's books:

- The Lucky Few: Finding God's Best in the Most Unlikely Places

- Scoot Over and Make Some Room: Creating a Space Where Everyone Belongs

- Everyone Belongs (children's book)

- Different - A Great Thing to Be (children's book)

Heather's podcast: www.theluckyfewpodcast.com

Today, I am so excited to bring you my interview with Trina Shockey. Trina had her first son ten years ago, prematurely and through a dramatic delivery. Following her first birth and learning more about what brought on her pre-term delivery, Trina and her husband chose to grow their family further through adoption. Four years into her adoption journey, Trina was able to welcome baby Oscar into her family. She shares all about their adoption process - the good, the challenging, and the surprising. Trina's story demonstrates the uniqueness of each mother's journey and once again, that there are so many ways to make a family.

To learn more about the non-profit company Trina used for her adoption, check out: www.ccnks.org

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today, I had the honor to chat with Sarah Hartenberger, IBCLC. Sarah was working in the corporate world in marketing when she had her first child, Calvin, and struggled with breast feeding. After her journey with lactation, Sarah felt called to learn more, pursue her IBCLC certification, leave the corporate world, and start her own business so she could help other moms feed their babies. Since then, her company (Nurture Lactation) has grown exponentially, and Sarah and her clinicians help moms in-person and virtually. During this interview, Sarah tells us what it was like to pursue her passion, how she balances owning a business and having kids, and also some tips/myths about lactation!

Find Sarah online at www.nurturelactationkc.com

IG @nurturelactationkc

FB - Nurture Lactation

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today's guest is Annie Highwater: Author, Recovery Writer, Podcast Host, Speaker, Family Advocate and Recovery Enthusiast. Her story began with extreme challenges during childhood, ending in pregnancy at age 17. Despite her young age, Annie was mature enough to realize that she wanted a better life for her son. Through hard work, she was able to create a better path for herself and her son however challenges continued to follow her family. When her son was in high school, he was prescribed pain medication for a football injury, and within six weeks, he was battling an addiction which would last for many years. Annie has done so much research and self-work to heal herself, help support her son, and now work to help others in the recovery world. She is currently writing her 3rd book and running a podcast, while working full-time helping families support their loved ones on the recovery journey. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time - Annie's story has inspired me to make changes in my own life, and I'm excited for you to hear it!

Annie's book Unhooked:

https://www.amazon.com/Unhooked-Mothers-Unhitching-Coaster-Addiction/dp/1942497210

Annie's book Unbroken:

https://www.amazon.com/Unbroken-Navigating-Dysfunction-Addiction-Alcoholism/dp/1939844525/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_2/157-0550715-2961527?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1939844525&pd_rd_r=a8000c37-3636-11e9-baf7-ef6914df907a&pd_rd_w=UJMFw&pd_rd_wg=JI64s&pf_rd_p=6725dbd6-9917-451d-beba-16af7874e407&pf_rd_r=JK78ZM7HDS5SZX5KVF5C&psc=1&refRID=JK78ZM7HDS5SZX5KVF5C

Find Annie on Facebook at Annie Highwater - Recovery Writer, Author of Unhooked and Unbroken

"The Unhooked Podcast:" https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/annie-highwater

On today's interview, I had the privilege to talk with Andi Almond about her family's incredible 13-month world schooling adventure. Andi and her family prepared for 5 years for this epic trip which took them through 27 different countries and 7 continents. She also tells about the details of world schooling her two kids, incorporating their lessons into where they were traveling. You'll love her stories about Morocco, Greece, Argentina, Nepal, Antarctica, and more!

You can check out Andi's adventures on IG @4almondsabroad

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today's guest is just an incredible human being, and I am so in awe of what she has been doing to help so many children. Sarah Yates shares her story with foster care and adoption, including foster care and then adoption of children with medical needs. I learned so much from Sarah about the foster care system, what is needed, and how to help. Her story is heart breaking at times and hopeful in others. I'm so grateful she agreed to join us today to share her beautiful story.

You can find Sarah on IG @adoptive.foster.medical.mama

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

I'm so happy to bring you the finale to our first ever 3-part series! Today, Whitney and I talk about the remaining months of Pepper's hospital stay, what it was like to have all four kids back together again, a cross country move, and what the family is up to today. If you're like me, you're going to be cheering by the end of this one! It has been such an honor to have Whitney as a guest to tell this incredible story. Enjoy! Whitney's IG and blog can be found at @copelandbuslife

Welcome to Part 2 of Whitney's story! Today's episode begins when Kyle, Pepper, and Krew arrive in Las Vegas. Whitney takes us along their recovery journey, covering the first 3 months in the hospital. During this time, her family members undergo multiple surgeries and countless procedures to heal from their burns. Kyle and Krew are able to leave the hospital, and Pepper works hard to progress to standing up from her bed. Whitney shares openly about all of the challenges of burn recovery, but also about some happy memories they were able to make along the way.

Whitney's Instagram and blog @copelandbuslife

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

It was such a pleasure chatting with Abbey Benjamin today. Abby is mama to two children and her daughter, Avery, has a rare genetic disease that led to their family life being different than anticipated. Notice I said different, though, and not one bit less because Abbey makes sure that Avery has the opportunity to go out and live an amazing life filled with trips, adventures, and very importantly, dance class. Abbey shares about how she learned about the importance of inclusion from adults with disabilities and how this changed how she advocated for her daughter. So many good lessons in this one and you just can't help but feel happy when you see Avery's big smile on social media. It was such an honor to learn about this amazing family!

Follow Abbey and Avery on IG: @abbeybenj

Abbey's books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=abbey+luckett+benjamin&crid=3LI6ZVXVCXDA3&sprefix=abbey+benjami%2Caps%2C150&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_13

This episode is one I have looked forward to recording and sharing for so long because Whitney Copeland's journey is nothing short of incredible. Because of the depth involved in the story, we are going to break this into (at least!) two episodes. A few years ago, Whitney and her family decided to sell their home and renovate a city bus where they could travel the US and home school their children. After four wonderful months filled with happy memories, their family met with disaster when the bus went up in flames... with three of their four children inside. Whitney's husband, Kyle, raced into the fire and pulled out their 11-year-old daughter, Pepper, and 3-year-old son, Krew, while another son, Kade, escaped out a window. Less than a minute later, the bus exploded with another explosion following soon later. Part 1 takes us through the event itself, the move to the local hospital, and the transport to the burn unit in Las Vegas. Kyle and both children sustained severe burns and were placed into comas, were on ventilators, and underwent what would be the first of many surgeries. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat and bring you to tears at the strength and bravery of these two parents and their four young children. I am so excited to bring you the first part of this inspiring story today!

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

I have wanted to have April Helfery on the podcast since I started recording and what better episode to have a member of my family here than the first annual holiday episode! April's daughter, Addy, is 9 years old and has spina bifida. I have had the honor of watching Addy grow up, and it was so fun to chat about the whole journey. Addy is one tough little girl who has overcome many surgeries and hospitalizations, all with a smile on her face, progressing to now riding horses, swimming, and cheerleading. April tells us what it's like managing medical motherhood, including the importance of advocating for your child, advice for how to help your kids learn about people with different abilities...and there is even a special appearance from Addy, herself, along with her brother, Cale - and a holiday surprise at the end. Happy Holidays, everyone!

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today's guest is a running hero of mine! I met Kim Reed over ten years ago, before she was a mom. I am in awe of her running accomplishments including placing 7th in the Boston Marathon and competing in two Olympic trials for the marathon distance. Kim is now a mother of a 2-year-old and a 6-week old. She shares with us about running during pregnancy and about her difficult post-partum journey, even as an elite athlete. She also gives tips to moms who are trying to figure out how to get started with exercise and how to fit it into their busy lives.

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today's guest is Jacqueline Greenlee, a teacher and mom of two girls. Jacqueline tells us about what it's like raising children of mixed race. She shares resources, such as books and movies, that she has used to talk with her girls and teach them about what matters. The phrase she shares that her family uses about loving someone for who they are really spoke to me and is something we can ALL use in our families to help make the world a kinder and more inclusive place.

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today's guest is just incredible, and it was such an honor to hear her story. Emily Webster is here to tell her motherhood story which began when she delivered her boy/girl twins prematurely at 26 weeks, 3 days. Emily lost her precious son, Benjamin, to necrotizing enterocolitis after over 30 days in the NICU, and she shares with us how it felt at the time to not be able to grieve her son because she had to go right back to the NICU to care for her daughter. Emily tells about the challenges her daughter has overcome and how well she is doing today, 10 years later. She also shares about her fertility struggles and pregnancy complications, including when she decided with her husband to further grow their family after the twins' birth. This episode brings EVERY emotion and you'll find yourself cheering for Emily and Caroline while also feeling sad, but touched at the ways Emily describes Benjamin and how her family honors him today.

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Amanda Fisher is back! Today, for Part 2, she shares her journey with her middle son's food allergies. Landon began showing signs of a food allergy at 5 weeks, and he is now 8 years old. He is allergic to legumes which includes peanuts, beans, peas, and honey. I learned SO much from this episode, and it really opened my eyes to how much work goes into parenting a little one with food allergies. This is a must-listen to any parent, educator, or person who spends any time around kids. Please listen and share so we can do our best to support these children and their families.

To learn more about Amanda, go to www.empoweryourpelvis.com

You can also find her on IG at @empower.your.pelvis and FB at Dr. Amanda Fisher, Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Every mama needs to know about pelvic health! There are so many symptoms (peeing when sneezing, pain with sex, low back pain with pregnancy - and more!) that mamas don't talk about, but these things are COMMON and can be fixed! Amanda Fisher is a pelvic health physical therapist and owner of Empower Your Pelvis and it's associated online community, her Pelvic Posse. Amanda does all this while raising three very active boys. Listen in to learn some tips for some common pelvic health conditions and to learn how she juggles it all!

Find Amanda and join her Pelvic Posse at www.empoweryourpelvis.com

Follow her on IG at @empower.your.pelvis and FB at Dr. Amanda Fisher, Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today's story is one of STRENGTH, both of 4-year-old Birdie and her incredible mother, Erika. Birdie was born with an omphalocele, a birth defect where several organs were on the outside of her body. Erika shares about Birdie's 6-month NICU stay, which also included getting a trach and having open heart surgery, and then the unexpected path their journey took when Birdie went into liver failure and needed a transplant. Erika's story is one of strength, bravery, and speaking out when something feels wrong. I can't wait to share this inspiring story with you all!

To hear more from Erika and other moms, check out her podcast, Story Sanctuary

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today, I had the opportunity to talk with CC Davis who shares her story of her children who have been diagnosed with PANS, a sudden onset of neurological symptoms. She shares about the multiple years, incorrect suggestions, and many doctors it took to find the correct diagnosis and from there, the proper treatment for her children. This conversation was SO eye-opening because it's a diagnosis with which I was only mildly familiar, and it's so important for us to know about this as moms. As a bonus, CC is a certified mindset coach, and she shares so many pieces of advice, mantras, and ideas that we can all use every day.

To find CC on Instagram, go to @soulshinemom

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Amanda has been my friend for 36 years - and what I didn't realize when we were playing Barbies and jamming to NKOTB was that she was struggling. Amanda herself admits she did not even know at the time that she was struggling. However, her mother was battling multiple sclerosis, and Amanda was having to grow up faster than her peers. She began to provide more and more care for her mother until she passed when Amanda was 14 and her mother was 39. Fast forward to now and Amanda has two children of her own, ages 15 and 10. She shares a raw and honest account of how growing up while her mom was sick has affected how she parents her own kids today.

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Welcome to Season 4! I'm so excited to bring you today's episode which is one I've wanted to do for a long time. Kelley is with us today to talk about balancing being a firefighter while also being a mom. She shares about how she got into this career, how things changed when she became pregnant, what it was like returning to such a physically demanding job post-partum, and how she juggles parenthood with the demands of 24 hour shifts and occasional 2 week strike teams to combat wildfires. Basically, Kelley is freaking AWESOME, I learned so much, and I am so thankful that there are mamas like her in the world who protect our families.

Not all NICU babies are preemies! Today, I had the honor of chatting with Sara Bedwell who had a healthy pregnancy that she carried until 40 weeks. Then, in a matter of a few hours, her life turned upside down when her daughter went from a healthy, full-term baby inside of her to a very sick baby born with meconium aspiration and pulmonary hypertension. Sara's daughter, Claire, was born unable to breathe and her journey in the NICU began, complete with being on a higher-powered ventilator and with Sara being told Claire was hovering dangerously between life and death. Sara shares what it was like having a full-term, very sick baby in the NICU as well as how this experience led her to decide that her family was complete, as it would be too anxiety-provoking and traumatic to go through another pregnancy and delivery. This is the story of one tough little girl...and her very strong mama!

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today's interview took me back in time to our micropreemie journey, but in Alisha's story, her daughter was born even earlier and smaller (!!). Hazel was born five years ago at just 1 pound 2 ounces and 23+0 weeks - this means she was born the very first day of Alisha's 23rd week of pregnancy. Despite being born on the edge of viability, Hazel has a miraculous story that reminds us just how strong and resilient children can be. As a licensed mental health therapist, Alisha also shares about how her background helped her recognize and deal with the trauma that is associated with a NICU stay. She also shares about her anxiety during her second pregnancy following her traumatic first birth. This one just made my heart happy, and I can't wait for you all to listen!

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today, I have the absolute privilege of speaking with Kay Rader. Kay shares her journey with motherhood which includes her grown twin daughters and her 14-year-old, Bella, who came into her home via foster to adoption. Kay was a special education teacher who was willing to care for Bella, one of her students, when her parents could not for 1-2 weeks...and this turned into Bella being adopted into her forever family. Kay tells about Bella's medical struggles and how her family has had to make many changes in their path, but they have never given up. Kay's obvious love for her daughter and her commitment to being her advocate are inspiring, to say the least.

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather

Today's episode made me laugh, cry, and really think about how I live life every day. I had the absolute honor of interviewing Kacy Wolff who shared her story about losing her husband, Matt, after 21 years of marriage to brain cancer- all while raising five children who at the time ranged in age from preschool to high school. Kacy's story is heart-breaking, of course, and yet inspiring at the same time. Her rawness and vulnerability lead to an episode that is FULL of advice that can help others going through challenging times. I left this interview with a whole new perspective on how I was living my day-to-day. I am so excited for you all to listen to this one, and I can't wait to hear you it changes YOUR lives.

Also, Kacy has been so very kind to say that if anyone needs someone to talk to about a dying spouse or grieving, she would be happy to meet with you. Please feel free to reach out to me if this is you.

Another resource she wanted to share with listeners is https://soaringspirits.org. This is also who hosted the widow's camp/conference mentioned in the episode.

You can find my book, Learning to Breathe, at:

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Breathe-story-micropreemies-defied-ebook/dp/B083S6R3CN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RUDD8XIP3YUT&keywords=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans&qid=1675870004&sprefix=learning+to+breathe+heather+evans%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1

You can find my book, The NICU Mama Survival Guide, at:

https://www.amazon.com/NICU-Mama-Survival-Guide-Post-Partum/dp/B09MGJ7RSX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24Q2C9CKTALJ2&keywords=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide&qid=1675870037&sprefix=the+nicu+mama+survival+guide%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1

Have a great week!

Heather