Title: Melissa Cohen - Navigating Early Motherhood With A Child Facing Congenital Heart Defects

Host: Katie Elise

Keywords

motherhood, congenital heart defects, parenting challenges, emotional trauma, support systems, advocacy, self-care, resilience, heart community, personal stories

Summary

In this episode of the Thriving While Surviving podcast, Katie Elise speaks with Melissa Cohen about her experiences navigating motherhood with a child who has congenital heart defects. They discuss the challenges of unexpected diagnoses, the emotional trauma of hospitalization, and the importance of advocacy and support systems. Melissa shares her journey of self-discovery, the impact of her daughter's health on her mental well-being, and the lessons learned about grace and resilience. The conversation highlights the need for community, understanding, and compassion in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

Every mom has expectations that may not be met.

The shock of a child's diagnosis can be overwhelming.

Advocacy is crucial in navigating medical challenges.

Trauma from medical experiences can reshape a parent.

Self-care is essential but often neglected during crises.

Community support can make a significant difference.

It's important to allow oneself grace during tough times.

Celebrating small milestones is vital for emotional health.

The journey of parenting a child with health issues is unique and challenging.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Motherhood with Congenital Heart Defects

02:42 Expectations vs. Reality in Motherhood

05:30 The Shock of Diagnosis

08:49 The Journey Begins: Michaela's Birth

11:41 Facing the Unknown: NICU Experience

14:23 Understanding Tetralogy of Fallot

17:37 Complications: Tracheal Condition Discovery

20:44 The Role of Advocacy in Healthcare

23:43 Finding Strength in the Journey

32:32 The Struggles of Holding a Newborn

34:53 The Reality of Newborn Needs

38:11 The Impact of Trauma on Parenting

40:57 Navigating Anxiety and Daily Life

44:10 Different Coping Mechanisms in Stress

46:27 Self-Care and Support Systems

49:33 The Protective Instinct of Motherhood

52:17 Isolation and Emotional Turmoil

54:59 The Journey of Healing and Understanding

59:56 Navigating Family Support During Crisis

01:04:08 The Importance of Self-Compassion

01:09:51 Celebrating Progress and Growth

01:19:00 Shifting Perspectives on Motherhood

01:21:22 Connecting and Sharing Stories

01:23:20 Podcast Outro Video.mp4

Links

Melissa’s Email: Melissagwen@gmail.com