In this week's episode, we are joined by Chrissy and Naomi from Courageous Parents Network (CPN), a nonprofit with a mission to orient and empower parents and others caring for children with serious illness by providing resources and tools that reflect the experience and perspective of families and clinicians. Together, we dive into the realities and misconceptions of pediatric palliative care.

Chrissy, a pediatric psychologist and Director of Clinician Engagement at CPN, clarifies the holistic role of palliative care, debunking myths that often equate it to hospice. She explains how palliative care can begin at diagnosis and supports the whole family emotionally and practically throughout the medical journey. Naomi, a life doula and grief coach, shares her personal journey with her son, Noah, who has faced significant medical challenges since birth. She discusses the invaluable support she received from CPN and how palliative care helped her reclaim her role as a mother, not just a caregiver.

This conversation offers a wealth of insights for NICU parents, covering topics like decision-making, self-advocacy, and the importance of family-centered support. We hope that this episode empowers you to seek out resources like palliative care and other support tools that can provide the guidance and compassion every NICU family deserves!

To connect with Courageous Parents’ Network resources:

Facebook | Instagram | Website

To learn more from Naomi:
Videos | Blogs | Website

To get connected with DNM:

Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram

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