Hydro Heroes Unite

Send us Fan MailToday I share parts of my conversation with twin brothers, Josh and Jake. Josh has hydrocephalus and Jake doesn't. We talk about what can be challenging, what brings them joy and being brave. I also got the opportunity to speak with their mom, Emily, about things she's learned caring for a loved one with hydrocephalus. Resources connected to today's episode:Hydrocephalus Awareness MonthShunt SystemComplications of Shunt SystemsShunt Revision Surgery: What to Expect During Surgery and RecoveryShunt Malfunction: Frequently Asked Questions School and HydrocephalusNewly DiagnosedHydrocephalus Resource LibraryRAISE Resilience ProgramCommunity Networks (Support Groups)HydrocephalusCONNECT (Peer Support Program)WALK to End HydrocephalusLearn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailNot sure what an IEP or 504 plan is or if your child needs one? Today on Hydro Heroes Unite education law attorney Ashley VanCleef joins me to break down IEP's and 504 plans for adolescents living with hydrocephalus. We talk about what the plans are, how to start the process, and what to be mindful of along the way. Ashley also shares the legal steps to take when things aren’t working and how to help teens begin advocating for themselves during their own IEP meetings. HA Resource Links:Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show (If we're including again)School and HydrocephalusIEP Strategies and Dealing with the School System Session with Dr. Zabel and Ashley VanCleefDownloadable Teachers’ Guides Individualized Education Program (IEP): Communication Skills for ParentsLearning Disabilities in Children with HydrocephalusMiddle School with Hydrocephalus: Smart PreparationMastering the High School Transition with Hydrocephalus  COPAA National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource LibraryHydrocephalus ResourcesLearn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailPediatric psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae returns to the show after her Season 1 conversation on caregiver resilience and advocacy. Today I'll be sharing parts of our conversation about mental health in adolescents living with hydrocephalus. We explore how anxiety, depression, school stress, and chronic symptoms shape daily life for teens, and how families can support emotional well‑being and self‑advocacy. I'm grateful to have her back to share her knowledge and heart with the community. Start Here: Mental Health & Emotional Well-BeingEmotional Well-Beinghttps://www.hydroassoc.org/emotional-well-being/Understanding Anxiety, Depression, and Mental Health in Hydrocephalushttps://www.hydroassoc.org/understanding-anxiety-depression-and-mental-health-in-hydrocephalus/Overcoming Emotional Struggles and Building Resiliencehttps://www.hydroassoc.org/emotional-struggles-and-resilience/Mindfulness for Hydrocephalus: Tools to Manage Stresshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/mindfulness-for-hydrocephalus/For Teens and Young AdultsResources for Teens and Young Adultshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/teen-young-adult-hydrocephalus-resources/Helping Teens Navigate Social Dynamics and Build Confidencehttps://www.hydroassoc.org/teens-navigate-social-dynamics/How to Explain Hydrocephalus to Your Teachers and Friendshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/explaining-hydrocephalus-to-teachers-friends/Monthly Teen Online HangoutWhen: 1st Sunday of the monthhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/For Parents and CaregiversSelf-Care is Not a Luxury, it's a Responsibility: Advocacy & Resilience with Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae Resources for Parentshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/Empowering Your Child to Be Their Own Advocate: Navigating Healthcare with Confidencehttps://www.hydroassoc.org/empowering-your-child/Our Shared Journey: Parent Support GroupWhen: 2nd Monday, Quarterlyhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/Daily Life, Balance, and Self-CareWellness & Self-Carehttps://www.hydroassoc.org/wellness-self-care/Balancing Life with Hydrocephalus: Key Strategies for Successhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/balancing-life-with-hydrocephalus/Understanding Symptoms and Related Health ConditionsComplications of Shunt Systemshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/Headaches and Hydrocephalushttps://www.hydroassoc.org/headaches-and-hydrocephalus/Precocious Puberty and Hydrocephalus: Helpful Insightshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/precocious-puberty-and-hydrocephalus/Related Health Conditionshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/related-health-conditions/Community and ConnectionPeer Support Program: HydrocephalusCONNECThttps://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalusconnect-peer-support/19th National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT (July 23–25, Indianapolis, IN)https://hydrocephalusconference.org/WALK to End Hydrocephalushttps://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-walk-near-you/Explore All ResourcesHydrocephalus Resourceshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/resources/Hydrocephalus Resource Libraryhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-library/Support Tools for Younger AudiencesA Helpful Companion for Learning at Home: Order My Hydro Bearhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/my-hydro-bear/Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailToday I’ll be sharing parts of my conversation with Camille, a 15-year-old high schooler who loves musical theater, singing and writing and was diagnosed with hydrocephalus when she was ten years old. Camille is our first brave adolescent voice this season speaking out in her own words about her experience living with hydrocephalus. HA Resources:Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the showHydrocephalus in Infants and ChildrenHeadaches and HydrocephalusHeadaches and Hydrocephalus: Causes and Types ExplainedGuide to Managing Chronic Pain, Headaches, and HydrocephalusAdult Ask the Expert Series: Headaches and HydrocephalusI Can Relate Video Series: HeadachesI Can Relate Video Series: Types of HeadachesShunt SystemsWhat to Expect with Hydrocephalus Shunt SurgeryHigh School and HydrocephalusHydrocephalus in High School: Coping with Chronic PainHealth Challenges and SchoolI Can Relate Video Series: After Brain Surgery, Do You Hide or Show Off Your Scars?I Can Relate Video Series: Do You Share Your Scars?Body Image and Scars: Living with HydrocephalusI Can Relate Video Series: What Subjects do you Find Difficult in School?I Can Relate Video Series: Who do you tell that you have Hydrocephalus?I Can Relate Video Series: Who Do You Share Your Condition With?I Can Relate Video Series: How Do You Tell Your School About Your Condition?How to Explain Hydrocephalus to Your Teachers and FriendsI Can Relate Video Series: Do You Feel Your Parents Are Overprotective?I Can Relate Video Series: Are you Getting your Driver’s License?Driving and HydrocephalusStrategies for Coping with Memory Issues and ForgetfulnessCommunity Networks (Support Groups)Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailI sit down to talk with LaShonda, a mom of teen daughter Camille who was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at ten years old. We discuss their family's experience receiving the diagnosis, school experiences, advocacy and the challenges of supporting independence in a teenager living with a complex medical condition like hydrocephalus. National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the showHydrocephalus in Infants and ChildrenCongenital Hydrocephalus: Dandy-Walker syndromeHeadaches and HydrocephalusShunt SystemsSchool and HydrocephalusHealth Challenges and SchoolShunt Revision Surgery: What to Expect During Surgery and RecoveryExercise and Hydrocephalus: Stay Safe and ActiveStaying Active and Hydrocephalus: Consensus Statements on Physical ActivitiesTeachers' GuideHow to Explain Hydrocephalus to Your Teachers and FriendsMiddle School with Hydrocephalus: Smart PreparationIndividualized Education Program (IEP): Communication Skills for ParentsHelping Teens Navigate Social Dynamics and Build ConfidenceHigh School and Hydrocephalus Complications of a Shunt SystemUnderstanding a Shuntogram (Shunt Patency Study)Traveling with HydrocephalusSearch HA's Hydrocephalus Resource LibraryHydrocephalus ResourcesCommunity Networks (Support Groups)WALK to End HydrocephalusPeer Support, HydrocephalusCONNECTThe Hydrocephalus Association's RAISE Resilience ProgramLearn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailSeason 2 is all about the adolescent stage of hydrocephalus. To kick things off, Dr. Andy Zabel shares his insights as a neuropsychologist on brain development during this stage of life. We sat down to discuss executive functioning, when parents should consider a neuropsych evaluation, the impact of relationships and technology, and much more. For more resources connected to this conversation please see the links below: Practical Tips and Tools for Dealing with Memory and Executive Function ChallengesNeuropsychology 101: Understanding Cognitive Function in HydrocephalusHydrocephalus and it’s Impact on Cognitive Development and EducationEssential Guide: Developmental Milestones in Hydrocephalus Grey is the New White? Not in the brain!Signs and Symptoms of a Shunt ComplicationTypes and causes of hydrocephalus Learning Disabilities in Children with HydrocephalusPodcast: Helping Children with Hydrocephalus Thrive with Neuropsychologist Dr. Jennifer QueallyIEP Strategies and Dealing with the School System Session with Dr. Zabel and Ashley VanCleefSchool and HydrocephalusMiddle School with Hydrocephalus: Smart PreparationIndividualized Education Program (IEP): Communication Skills for ParentsDriving and HydrocephalusDoes hydrocephalus have an impact on one’s ability to drive?National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource LibraryHydrocephalus ResourcesHA's Medical Advisory BoardLearn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailJune 24th we kick off season 2 of Hydro Heroes Unite. This season is all about the adolescent stage of hydrocephalus. We'll discuss brain development, mental health, IEP & 504, and living an active life with medical experts and professionals who dedicate their careers to helping kids and families thrive. And the best part, we'll hear from kids and teens living with hydrocephalus about their unique lived experience. Follow the show on your listening app of choice so you never miss an episode.  Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailIn this final episode of Season One, I bring it home (literally) and share parts of my conversation with my husband Scott as he opens up about his perspective through Angelica’s hydrocephalus and Dandy-Walker diagnosis.Scott opens up about:The shock of receiving a diagnosis during pregnancyNavigating NICU life, Hurricane Maria and unexpected PICU transfersFinding humor in hard places Advocating as a caregiver and trusting your gut (and your partners)How resilience forms slowly, moment by momentThis episode is funny, heartfelt, and deeply hopeful. Sometimes, the most powerful form of resilience is learning to smile, laugh, and eventually dance in the rain.It's a tribute to caregivers, partners, and every family who has ever weathered a storm together.If this season moved you, please share the episode or leave a review to help more hydro families feel seen and supported.Resources: Hydrocephalus Association RAISE Resilience Program: https://www.hydroassoc.org/raise-resilience-program/Caring for the Caregiver: How to Recognize, Prevent, and Manage Burnout: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/Support Groups: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/Mindfulness for Hydrocephalus: Tools to Manage Stress: https://www.hydroassoc.org/mindfulness-for-hydrocephalus/Resource for Parents: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/Hydrocephalus CONNECT Peer Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalusconnect-peer-support/Congenital Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/congenital-hydrocephalus/Easily Explain Hydrocephalus to a Child with Confidence: https://www.hydroassoc.org/how-to-explain-hydrocephalus-to-a-child/Complications of a shunt system: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/Shunt Malfunction: Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/Your Healthcare Team: https://www.hydroassoc.org/your-healthcare-team-2/Hydrocephalus Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/WALK to End Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-walk-near-you/Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailToday I’ll share parts of my conversation with Dr. Elizabeth McRae, a pediatric psychologist at the University of Alabama, to talk about empowering children with complex medical conditions and supporting the families who care for them.We explore:The difference between pediatric psychologists and neuropsychologistsHow parents can help kids learn to advocate for themselvesThe RAISE program, which helps caregivers build resilience and find balanceWhy self-care and mental health are essential for families raising medically complex kidsResources & Links:Hydrocephalus Association RAISE Resilience Program: https://www.hydroassoc.org/raise-resilience-program/Caring for the Caregiver: How to Recognize, Prevent, and Manage Burnout: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/Mindfulness for Hydrocephalus: Tools to Manage Stress: https://www.hydroassoc.org/mindfulness-for-hydrocephalus/Neuropsychology 101: Understanding Cognitive Function in Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/understanding-cognitive-function-hydrocephalus/Support Groups: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/HydrocephalusCONNECT Peer Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalusconnect-peer-support/Easily Explain Hydrocephalus to a Child with Confidence: https://www.hydroassoc.org/how-to-explain-hydrocephalus-to-a-child/Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care: https://www.hydroassoc.org/transitioning-from-pediatric-to-adult-care/Timeline for a Successful Transition to Adult Care: https://www.hydroassoc.org/timeline-for-transitioning-to-adult-care/Toolkit for Transitioning Medical Care: https://www.hydroassoc.org/toolkit-transitioning-medical-care/Transitioning to Independence: https://www.hydroassoc.org/transitioning-to-independence/Prescription Management: Helping Your Teen Master It: https://www.hydroassoc.org/teen-prescription-management/Individualized Education Program (IEP): https://www.hydroassoc.org/individualized-education-program/Your Healthcare Team: https://www.hydroassoc.org/your-healthcare-team-2/Complications of a shunt system: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/Shunt Malfunction: Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/Resource for Parents: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/Hydrocephalus Resources: Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt and often funny episode of Hydro Heroes Unite, I sit down with Melissa, a fellow NICU mom and twin mom, whose daughter Abagail lives with hydrocephalus, hemiplegia, cortical visual impairment, and epilepsy.Melissa shares her heart and her humor as she reflects on their family’s journey — from the early NICU days to navigating the complexities of hydrocephalus, including challenges many parents don’t expect.We talk about the power of trusting your instincts as a parent, finding silver linings even in tough times, and the huge difference it makes when doctors show humility, empathy, and true partnership.Melissa has been a long-time advocate for the hydrocephalus community, serving for eight years as co-chair of the National Capital WALK to End Hydrocephalus and continuing to champion disability rights and inclusion.Whether you’re a newly diagnosed family or years into this journey, this conversation is a reminder that you’re not alone — and that there’s strength in community, advocacy, and a little bit of humor along the way.Resources:Hydrocephalus in infants and children: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-in-infants-and-children/Acquired Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/acquired-hydrocephalus/Shunt System: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/Complications of a Shunt System: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/Shunt Malfunction: Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/Epilepsy and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/epilepsy-and-hydrocephalus/Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/understanding-cvi-and-hydrocephalus/ETV and ETV with CPC: https://www.hydroassoc.org/etv-and-etv-with-cpc/Get Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/get-support/WALK to End Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-walk-near-you/Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH): https://www.hydroassoc.org/normal-pressure-hydrocephalus-2/Hydrocephalus Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/resources/Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailWhat every parent needs to know about helping kids with hydrocephalus thrive at home and school. Today’s conversation with neuropsychologist Dr. Jennifer Queally explores the impact of hydrocephalus on learning and development, how parents and schools can collaborate, and the challenges children face in self-advocacy. The conversation also dives into practical strategies for supporting independence, preparing for adulthood, and balancing the realities of parenting a child with a medical condition.Whether you’re new to this journey or years along, you’ll find encouragement, insights, and hope in this discussion.Episode 5 Resources:Breaking Myths About Hydrocephalus: What’s Fact and What’s Fiction?: https://www.hydroassoc.org/breaking-myths-about-hydrocephalus/Types and Causes of Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/types-and-causes/Grey is the new White? Not in the brain!: https://www.hydroassoc.org/grey-is-the-new-white-not-in-the-brain/As Your Child Grows: https://www.hydroassoc.org/as-your-child-grows/Essential Guide: Developmental Milestones in Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/developmental-milestones-in-hydrocephalus/Shunt Systems: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/ETV and ETV with CPC: https://www.hydroassoc.org/etv-and-etv-with-cpc/School and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/school/High School and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/high-school/College and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/college/Parent Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care: https://www.hydroassoc.org/transitioning-from-pediatric-to-adult-care/Transitioning to Independence: https://www.hydroassoc.org/transitioning-to-independence/Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailWhat is hydrocephalus? How is it most commonly treated? And what should families know about living with this complex neurological condition? In this episode we’ll hear from Dr. Ramin Eskandari, a leading neurosurgeon, about the realities of hydrocephalus care.We discuss:What hydrocephalus is and how it affects patientsThe most common treatment options, including shunts and ETVWarning signs of shunt malfunctionsNew research and advances in treatmentThe debate on activity restrictions for patients with hydrocephalusDevelopmental, psychological, and psychiatric concerns for patients and caregiversWhy improving quality of life matters just as much as quantity of lifeWhether you’re newly diagnosed, a longtime caregiver, or simply looking to better understand hydrocephalus, this episode offers clarity, guidance, and hope from one of the field’s most experienced voices.HA Resources:Hydrocephalus in Infants and Children: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-in-infants-and-children/Shunt Systems: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/Complications of Shunt Systems: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/Shunt Malfunctions FAQ: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV): https://www.hydroassoc.org/etv-and-etv-with-cpc/Emerging Technology: https://www.hydroassoc.org/emerging-technology/Newly Diagnosed - Next Steps: https://www.hydroassoc.org/whats-next-newly-diagnosed/Essential Guide: Developmental Milestones in Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/developmental-milestones-in-hydrocephalus/Individualized Education Program (IEP): https://www.hydroassoc.org/individualized-education-program/Consensus Statement on Physical Activities for Children with Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/staying-active/#:~:text=Statement on Physical-,Activities,-for Children withStaying Active: https://www.hydroassoc.org/staying-active/Emotional Well-being: https://www.hydroassoc.org/emotional-well-being/RAISE Resilience Program: https://www.hydroassoc.org/raise-resilience-program/Research HA Funds: https://www.hydroassoc.org/research-we-fund/Research Priorities: https://www.hydroassoc.org/research-priorities/Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailCrystal’s story is one of resilience, faith, and hope. After her daughter Natalie was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, additional challenges followed: cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism. In this episode, Crystal opens up about walking through the valley of the shadow of death, leaning on her faith, and finding strength as a parent in the most difficult circumstances. We discuss how she and her family faced the fear of having another child, the importance of hope, and what it means to step back and allow our children to struggle in order to discover what they are truly capable of. Relevant resources:Hydrocephalus in Pregnancy Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-in-pregnancy/Shunt Systems Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/What to Expect with Hydrocephalus Shunt Surgery Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-shunt-surgery/Shunt Malfunction FAQs Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/Complications of Shunt System Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/Epilepsy and Hydrocephalus Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/epilepsy-and-hydrocephalus/Easily Explain Hydrocephalus to a Child with Confidence Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/how-to-explain-hydrocephalus-to-a-child/Caring for the Caregiver Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource Library: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-library/Parent Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/Get Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/get-support/WALK to End Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-walk-near-you/Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Hydro Heroes Unite, we head into the NICU with neonatologist Dr. Hallie Morris, who brings both her medical expertise and deep compassion to the conversation.We explore what it really means when a baby is admitted to the NICU - and how, in many ways, the whole family is admitted too. Dr. Morris shares how hydrocephalus is often diagnosed in newborns, how care teams come together, and why supporting caregivers is just as important as supporting the patient.From managing expectations and grieving what you hoped for, to embracing optimism in the unknown, Dr. Morris gives us a clear and heartfelt look into NICU life and the quiet hope it holds.Whether you’re a parent in the NICU now or someone wanting to better understand this part of the journey, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and community.Relevant Resources:Newly Diagnosed Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/whats-next-newly-diagnosed/Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource Library: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-library/Parent Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/Understanding Hydrocephalus Articles: https://www.hydroassoc.org/understanding-hydrocephalus/ About Hydrocephalus Video: https://www.hydroassoc.org/about-hydrocephalus-video/Your Healthcare Team Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/your-healthcare-team-2/Coping with Hospital Stays Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/coping-with-hospital-stays/Caring for the Caregiver Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/Stories from Parents: https://www.hydroassoc.org/people/i-am-a-parent/ Get Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/get-support/Hydrocephalus FAQ: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-frequently-asked-questions/Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailIn this first episode of Hydro Heroes Unite, I sit down with Miya — a mother of three whose youngest daughter Mila lives with hydrocephalus and cerebral palsy. Miya opens up about navigating a four-month NICU stay with newborn twins during the pandemic, while also parenting a toddler at home.We explore what survival mode really looks like, what comes after crisis, and how Miya stays grounded in the long game of raising a child with special medical needs. This conversation is raw, real, and incredibly powerful. Topics we cover include:  - NICU life with preemie twins - Balancing home and hospital during COVID - Processing trauma after survival - Self-care, grief, and advocacy - The strength of doing “just one day” at a timeResources: - Hydro Hero Shout-Out Form Resources relevant to today’s conversation curtesy of the Hydrocephalus Association:Shunt Systems Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/Shunt Malfunction FAQs Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/Complications of Shunt System Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/Developing an Emergency Plan for Hydrocephalus Complications Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/emergency-plan-for-hydrocephalus-complications/Ask the Expert Video: Barometric Pressure https://www.hydroassoc.org/ask-the-expert-video-series-barometric-pressure-and-hydrocephalus/Find a Doctor - HA Physicians' Directory: https://www.hydroassoc.org/physicians-directory/Traveling and Hydrocephalus Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/traveling-with-hydrocephalus/Download HydroAssist® Mobile Application - https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydroassist/Essential Guide: Developmental Milestones in Hydrocephalus Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/developmental-milestones-in-hydrocephalus/Your Healthcare Team Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/your-healthcare-team-2/Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource Library: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-library/Parent Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/Get Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/get-support/Caring for the Caregiver Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/Follow + Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts – and don’t forget to leave a review if this story moved youJoin us on social media:Taisha: @taishaycameronHA: @hydroassocLearn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Hydro Heroes Unite, a new bi-weekly podcast for parents and caregivers raising children with hydrocephalus. I'm your host, Taisha Cameron a fellow hydro hero mama, and in this season, we’re shining a light on the pediatric hydrocephalus journey.Each episode brings you real conversations with other parents and insights from medical professionals who understand the daily challenges and quiet victories of life with hydrocephalus.Our first full episode drops Wednesday, July 23. Subscribe now and join us every other Wednesday as we build a community rooted in stories, support, and solidarity.Created in partnership with the Hydrocephalus Association. Learn more at hydroassoc.org. Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc