26. Parenting a Child with Chronic Illness

Nearly half of American children live by the rules of their chronic illness. Their lives are impacted in a myriad of ways by the diagnoses as well as the very real experience of being in their bodies. And. The rates of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even death among the parents of these precious children leave the rates of said illnesses among parents of well-children in the dust. Just in the past few years, researchers are finally looking at the stunning effects on families that having a child with special health needs can have. Among the top recommendations are: building your family support system, building a supportive medical team, and being part of faith-based groups and support groups. Support groups for parents of children with chronic illnesses are very hard to find. Spoonie Sidekicks is a 12 week program for these parents and their families. I created this program as a mother of a chronically ill child, and the experiences that have come from leading this program are exactly what are needed for these amazing people! I invite you to listen to this episode, in which I frame the need for support groups and share how Spoonie Sidekicks can be that group for you. I do hope you find this episode to be encouraging and that you will share it with a loved one who needs it. Thank you for listening! To find information on the upcoming Spoonie Sidekicks program and to enroll, please visit https://www.laureltreewellnessllc.com/event-details/spoonie-sidekicks-1