Busy Mom's & Special Needs Children

Summary: In this episode, host Carole interviews Diala Hillberg, a busy mom and educator, about her journey as a caretaker. Diala shares her experiences raising three children, including her special needs son Luca. She discusses the challenges and joys of parenting a child with a genetic syndrome called DYRK1A. Diala also talks about the importance of finding a supportive community of parents facing similar challenges. She shares how she and her husband co-parent their children and navigate the demands of their busy lives. Diala reflects on the shifting roles between teaching and parenting and the process of re-evaluating her career and life. In this conversation, Carole and Diala discuss the challenges of managing multiple responsibilities and finding balance in life. Diala shares her unique schedule and the difficulties of juggling various roles, including being an adjunct professor and running a tutoring business. They also talk about the importance of accepting limitations and embracing change. Diala introduces her ministry, Balancing Grace, which aims to support women who are losing themselves in their various roles. They discuss the yearning for more and the deeper connection to God that comes with it. The conversation concludes with a focus on self-care and the importance of defining oneself in Him. Takeaways: Raising a child with special needs can be both challenging and rewarding. Finding a supportive community of parents facing similar challenges can provide comfort and valuable insights. Effective co-parenting requires open communication and understanding of each other's needs. Balancing the demands of teaching and parenting can be difficult, but taking it one day at a time and prioritizing self-care can help. Managing multiple responsibilities can be challenging, but it's important to find a balance that works for you. Accepting limitations and embracing change is necessary for personal growth and finding your path. Losing oneself in various roles is common for women, and it's important to prioritize self-care and find support in community. Faith and a strong connection to God can provide guidance and strength in navigating life's challenges. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:35 Diala's Three Kids 07:12 Accepting the Challenge 09:48 Connecting with Others with the Same Syndrome 12:41 Co-Parenting and Balancing Responsibilities 18:13 Re-evaluating Career and Life 18:34 Managing Multiple Responsibilities 19:11 Finding the Best Path 20:03 Teaching College Students 20:48 Accepting Limitations and Embracing Change 21:16 The Caretakers Journey Ministry 22:09 Balancing Grace 23:06 Yearning for More 23:34 Grief and Loss 24:32 The Importance of Balance 25:20 Losing Ourselves in Roles 26:18 Reevaluating Professional Career 27:14 Discipling Children 28:10 Doing Too Much 29:23 Realizing God's Purpose 30:22 Defining Ourselves in Him 31:28 Growing Stronger in Faith3 2:24 Kids' Testimonies 33:20 Self-Care and Acupuncture 34:18 Taking Care of Oneself3 5:23 Encouragement to Keep Going Connect with Diala: Social Media - @Diala.hill Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Social Media -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book