There are emotional complexities and practical considerations of caring for children with disabilities or special needs during emergencies. In this episode, we discuss our conversations with our kids about emergencies, how we prepare for these inevitabilities, and how to recognize our personal needs to find emotional support during these crises. This episode will empower you to have a plan but prioritize your well-being while caring for all your children in these challenging times.

Key Moments:

[4:34] Censoring medical history for son, balancing information
[11:49] Mom's emotions and the need to express them
[18:00] Emergencies caused by behavior should be discussed after it happens
[39:50] Anxious about an upcoming trip because of past trip traumas
[43:25] What calms you? How to avoid a meltdown

Resources:
Sara's Emergency Checklist: 6 Manageable Steps to Prepare Your Backup Caregiver

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special?
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/ or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

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Carrie sat down with Kristin and Todd Evans to discuss their newly released book, How to Build a Thriving Marriage As You Care for Children with Disabilities. They talk about communication strategies for couples, how they manage stress, and the ongoing grief we experience as special needs parents. This episode offers practical advice and emotional support for couples facing similar challenges.

Ep. 166; May 21, 2024
Key Moments:
[4:49] Lots of shame that we can feel as parents
[11:14] Marriage struggles: we had hurt each other a lot
[16:19] Deliberate moments and mindfulness relieve stress and bond each other together
[24:08] Ignoring our emotions led to unhealthy coping strategies
[34:42] Family/Friends offer helpful, specific things they can do

Resources:
How To Build a Thriving Marriage As You Care For Children With DisabilitiesKristin & Todd’s Website
Kristin & Todd’s Previous Interview on Take Heart

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special?
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/ or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Support the Show.

Join hosts Carrie, Sara, and Amy as we take a deep dive into the grief we face as mothers of children with disabilities. In this episode, we talk about how grief can feel like fear or anger, the need to be honest with ourselves, and the transformative nature of lament. This topic is something you may not know that you need until you allow yourself the space.

Eps. 165: May 7, 2024

Key Moments:
[4:23] Guilt says “I didn’t do enough.”
[7:29] My anger is actually grief
[11:04} Why doesn’t God stop the pain
[17:58] “Everything is not going to be ok, but we’re gonna get through it”

Resources:
Extraordinary Kids: Nurturing & Championing Your Child With Special Needs
How To Build A Thriving Marriage
Dark Clouds Deep Mercy

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special?
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/ or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Support the Show.