MMD - Special Guest, Hannah Doerstling

Summary

In this episode of the Medical Mama Drama Podcast, Jen interviews Hannah Doerstling, the National Program Director for Abilities Workshop. They discuss Hannah's journey into the world of special needs advocacy, the mission of Abilities Workshop, and the importance of supporting caregivers. Hannah shares insights on the resources available for families, including Bright Feets, a free special needs resource directory. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support, self-care for caregivers, and planning for the future of children with special needs. In this conversation, Hannah Doerstling shares insights on navigating the challenges of caregiving, particularly for parents of children with special needs. She emphasizes the importance of emotional support, community connections, and accessible resources. The discussion highlights the upcoming Autism Health and Abilities Conference, aimed at providing valuable information and support for families. Hannah also addresses the significance of asking caregivers how they are doing, rather than just focusing on the child, and the need for innovative resources to assist families in their journey.

Takeaways

• Hannah Doerstling emphasizes the importance of educating parents about available resources.
• Abilities Workshop focuses on supporting caregivers and helping them navigate their journey.
• Creating a game plan is essential for families with special needs children.
• Community engagement is crucial for the success of special needs advocacy.
• Churches are increasingly welcoming special needs families and creating inclusive programs.
• Bright Feets provides a free resource directory for families in need.
• Many families are unaware of the med waiver and other government resources.
• Respite care is a vital service that many caregivers do not know about.
• Self-care is essential for caregivers to maintain their well-being.
• Planning for the future of special needs children is a critical concern for families. Your journey is already hard enough; don't make it harder.
• It's important to have a binder for medical records.
• Emotional support is crucial for caregivers.
• Asking parents how they are doing can be impactful.
• Accessibility is key for new families.
• Community connections can alleviate feelings of isolation.
• Innovative resources can help families navigate challenges.
• The Autism Health and Abilities Conference is an exciting opportunity.
• Caregivers need affordable access to information and support.
• It's okay to take a moment and reflect on the positives.