A Maternal Fetal Care Coordinator's Guide to Advocating while Pregnant

Empowered by Hope

This is a rerun of a past episode that Ashlyn & Emily want more people to listen to because it is loaded with invaluable knowledge and support for parents expecting a child with medical needs. We will be back with new episodes after Thanksgiving!
Navigating the complexities of parenthood is a challenge in itself, but what happens when you add the hurdles of medical needs into the mix? Emily had the privilege of having a heart-to-heart talk with our guest, Elaine Bishop, a seasoned care coordinator and certified nurse midwife, who has been our guiding light through the fog of the shock from the anomalies found in Charlotte at 20 weeks pregnant. Elaine's story of resilience and hope gives comfort and inspiration to all parents paddling through the same waters.
Healthcare for children is a labyrinth, especially when they can't voice their needs. Elaine has turned this challenge into her life's work, advocating for children's health from the womb to the world. Our conversation delves into the tough realities of medical treatments, the heartache of seeing your child in pain, and the triumph of standing as their voice. We also unpack the power of parental instinct - it's the unquestionable partner in your child's care team. Make no mistake, you have the right to question, understand and insist on informed consent with any medical treatment.
As the saying goes, joy and sorrow are inseparable. Elaine's wisdom shows us that the silver lining in this clouded journey is the ability to trust your instincts, adjust your expectations, and continue finding joy amidst the heartache. How do we steer through unexpected pregnancy challenges? How do we set goals for our children's healthcare? How do we advocate with trust? Tune in for this inspiring conversation, and let's navigate parenthood with hope and resilience, together.

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.
To get more personal support, connect with us directly at: CharlottesHopeFoundation.org
Email: [e-mail]
Facebook: Charlotte's Hope Foundation
Instagram: CharlottesHopeFoundationInc
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon

Chapters

1. Navigating Parenthood With Empowered Hope (00:00:00)

2. Advocating for Children's Health (00:11:04)

3. Advocating for Your Child's Healthcare (00:16:45)

4. Advocate for Your Child With Trust (00:29:12)

5. Navigating Unexpected Challenges in Pregnancy (00:36:16)

6. Hospital Systems and Goal-Setting for Children's Healthcare (00:42:04)