Ep. 55: Talking with Kids About Chronic Illness / Ashley (ALS)

In this powerful two-part series of SpoonFull of Strength, we explore the heart of communication, resilience, and perspective through the lens of chronic illness.

Part 1 features Rachel and Tina as we dive into the often challenging—but incredibly important—topic of talking to children about chronic illness. We break down communication tips based on age, share helpful books that can support these conversations, and discuss how to gently involve kids in your chronic illness journey while still preserving their sense of security and understanding.

Part 2 introduces you to Ashley, a remarkable woman living with ALS. She opens up about her earliest symptoms, the emotional weight of receiving a diagnosis with no cure, and the ways her perspective on life has transformed since. Ashley shares the deep gratitude she feels for her support system—including her beloved service dog, Revna Jean—and how she's finding strength and beauty even in the hardest moments.

This is a deeply moving and inspiring episode that reminds us of the power of honesty, support, and grace through life’s most difficult challenges.

Follow Ashley on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/athena_ash_/

Read her poetry here: https://www.spilledpoems.com/

Buy her book here: Spilling the Tea volume 2 https://a.co/d/8LSrVbd

Here are some links for books to discuss chronic illness with children:

Why Does Mommy Hurt?: Helping Children Cope with the Challenges of Having a Caregiver with Chronic Pain, Fibromyalgia, or Autoimmune Diseasehttps://a.co/d/hg1E5Lo

My Mama Has Chronic Pain: A simple explanation of chronic pain from a child's point of view (The My Mama Series)https://a.co/d/h0CN2aD

What Happens When Someone I Love Doesn't Feel Good: A Book About Chronic or Terminal Illness That Won't Go Awayhttps://a.co/d/1PtRZuc

This episode is sponsored by Spicey — the universal heat patch for fast, targeted relief. Check them out at getspicey.com and follow along on Instagram @getspicey.