Navigating Medical Parenthood: A conversation with Amanda Griffith Atkins on Parenting a Child with a disability
In this insightful podcast, we have the privilege of delving into a conversation with Amanda Griffith Atkins, a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist, a mother of a child with a disability, and a passionate advocate for parents. Amanda's valuable insights, shared through her Instagram platform, offer a supportive space for parents of children with disabilities to connect and navigate the unique challenges they face.
A Journey of Resilience and Love
Amanda graciously shares her personal journey into parenthood, shining a light on her experiences raising her first child, Asher. Asher's journey is marked by Prader-Willi syndrome, a rare genetic condition encompassing physical complexities, learning difficulties, and behavioral challenges. Amanda offers a candid account of her time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a raw conversation about raising a child with complex medical needs.
Navigating Emotional Terrain
The emotional landscape of parenting a child with special medical requirements is profound, and Amanda offers a window into this realm. She discusses the impact on work-life balance, relationships, and personal well-being. Through her insights, Amanda addresses the intricate emotions that can arise, including feelings of jealousy, grief, and the struggle for control.
Coping with Uncertainty
Amanda sheds light on one of the most often asked questions within the medical community, “how do I cope with the uncertainty?”, we discuss some tools that Amanda has personally used and ones that she uses with her clients. She shares strategies for managing the perpetual "survival mode" and finding ways to navigate the unpredictability of the future.
Quotes that Resonate
Throughout our conversation with Amanda, several quotes capture the essence of her experiences and insights:
"A way friends can support us is just by sitting with us and giving us permission to slow down"
"on social media youre seeing this window into parenthood of what you thought it was going to look like"
"You will find your normal again"
"were trying to predict the future with what we have right now, we are trying to connect the dots when we have no dots"
"I had to convince myself that everything would be OK"
"some days it feels unbearable, that doesnt make you a bad parent, or that you dont love your child, youre in a dark place right now"
"Im losing the life I had, or thought I would have with my baby"
Connect with Amanda
Amanda Griffith Atkins continues to inspire and support parents through her Instagram presence and website. To learn more about her journey, insights, and advocacy, you can connect with Amanda on Instagram: @amanda.griffith.atkins or visit her website: www.amandagriffithatkins.com.
Join the Conversation
We invite you to join us in this important conversation by tagging @miraclemoonuk when you engage with Amanda's story. Your feedback and insights are invaluable. Additionally, if you've been touched by the topics discussed or have questions, we encourage you to reach out to us on Instagram or via email at hello@miraclemoon.co.uk or visit www.miraclemoon.co.uk.
Amanda Griffith Atkins' journey through parenthood offers a poignant look into the world of raising a child with disability. Her honesty, compassion, and commitment to advocacy shine through, providing a source of community for parents facing similar challenges. Through her experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the emotional complexities, coping strategies, and unwavering commitment that come into play when parenting a child with disabilities.