Entry Level Mom Episode 32: Medical Needs & Neurodivergence with Katie Elise

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Katie Elise (a mom of twin boys, and a military wife) joins me to share her journey of motherhood and how she has learned to thrive while surviving challenging circumstances. She challenges the notion that we can only thrive when all conditions are perfect, that is not her experience (nor mine!) Katie discusses her experience with one of her sons' congenital heart defect and  subsequent open-heart surgeries (and all that comes with that). Katie also shares the importance of advocating for children, especially after an autism diagnosis for her boys. She discusses the model of neurodiversity where a range of differences is viewed as part of the natural human variation. Katie also talks about the goals of her podcast Thriving While Surviving, which is to create a community for moms with medical needs and neurodivergent children.She emphasizes the significance of community support, and self-care practices for staying grounded in the present moment.TakeawaysMotherhood can be challenging, but it is possible to thrive while surviving tough circumstances.Advocacy is crucial for children with medical and special needs.Understanding and embracing neurodivergence can help celebrate and affirm the unique traits of individuals.Building a supportive community and practicing self-care are essential for mothers.Chapters00:00Becoming a Mother and Pregnancy03:09Congenital Heart Defect05:42Thriving While Surviving07:43Goals of the Podcast10:56Neurodivergence14:25Understanding Neurodivergence18:20Advocacy and Listening to Adult Voices21:43Lessons from Motherhood22:07Support and Self-Care23:54The Importance of Community25:03Advice to Younger Self28:34Practices for Grounding in the Present Moment32:29Where to Find KatieSupport the showWebsite: booksbybonnielippincott.comInstagram: @books_by_bonnie_lippincottTikTok: @entrylevelmomEmail: [email protected]: Baby2Baby is a national non-profit organization that provides children living in poverty with diapers, clothing and all the basic necessities that every child deserves. To learn more and get involved, visit www.baby2baby.org