The Abel Speaks Podcast

In this episode of the Able Speaks Podcast, we share a deeply personal journey of grief, hope, and faith. The Bahadourian's walk through the story of their son Isaiah, who was diagnosed with a life-limiting condition, and how they found strength in God during their darkest days. From the initial shock of the diagnosis to the profound peace they experienced after Isaiah's passing, their story is one of both heartbreak and beauty. Through this episode, we explore the raw emotions of anticipatory grief, the importance of community support, and the comfort that comes from knowing you're not alone. The Bahadourian's also reflect on how their faith was tested, how they chose to embrace their son's life, however brief, and how God's presence carried them through the most difficult time of their lives. This episode is a powerful reminder that even in the deepest sorrow, there is hope, and that God can use our pain for His purpose. If you're facing a similar journey or know someone who is, this episode offers a glimpse into the power of vulnerability, support, and trusting in God's goodness even when the answers aren't clear.

In our latest podcast episode, we engage with Dr. Kevin McGee to explore the emotional and spiritual terrain that we, as parents, must traverse when grappling with a life-limiting diagnosis for our children. We delve into how capturing the ephemeral moments of our children's lives, much like noting down whimsical quotes in a little black book, can offer comfort and deepen our bonds. If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We continue our conversation with Dr. Kevin McGee centering on the challenges faced by families and medical professionals when dealing with life-limiting diagnoses in children. Dr. McGee emphasizes the importance of clear, compassionate communication and respecting the unique decisions of each family, even when they differ from standard medical expectations. In the Able Speaks podcast episode titled "Navigating Life-Limiting Diagnoses for Children with Compassion and Wisdom," hosts Daniel and Kelly Crawford continue their conversation with Dr. Kevin McGee. The discussion centers on the challenges faced by families and medical professionals when dealing with life-limiting diagnoses in children. Dr. McGee emphasizes the importance of clear, compassionate communication and respecting the unique decisions of each family, even when they differ from standard medical expectations. If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

In our latest podcast episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Kevin McGee, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist whose warmth and empathy shine in his approach to life-limiting diagnoses in pregnancies. We share our personal encounter with Dr. McGee, highlighting the contrast between his compassionate care and our past clinical experiences. If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

Daniel and Kelly Crawford continue in a heartfelt dialogue with fellow caregivers Brandon and Amber, delving into the intricacies of raising a child with special needs. We openly discuss the profound impact this journey has on relationships, from the strain it places on marriages to the way it can either weaken or fortify bonds within a community.  We explore the art of seeking and accepting help, the importance of maintaining marital harmony amidst the chaos of caregiving, and the irreplaceable value of a supportive community. This episode offers practical tips for caregivers on how to navigate their relationships, manage emotional burdens, and stay connected with their partners through tools like relationship apps and thoughtful gestures. If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).  

Scuderis and the Mussers share their personal experiences caring for their children, Evelyn and Izzy, who live with life-limiting conditions. They discuss the significant emotional impact caregiving has on their relationships, socialization, and the mental load they carry daily. The families touch upon the challenges they face in maintaining friendships and family dynamics, the secondary suffering of those around them, and the importance of open communication. They also highlight the difficulty in articulating the relentless emotional labor of caregiving to those who haven't lived it, contributing to an empathy gap. The episode is an invitation to foster understanding of the caregiving experience, emphasizing the need for communities that comprehend the complexities involved and the importance of individual identity beyond caregiving roles. Through their stories, the Scuderis and Mussers shed light on the resilience, courage, and strength of caregiver families. If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

The Mussers and the Scuderis share their personal stories and insights on how the challenge of special needs children can strengthen empathy, resilience, and family bonds. The episode is divided into two chapters. The first chapter focuses on how the presence of a child with special needs can positively transform their siblings, fostering qualities like compassion and maturity as these siblings often take on advocacy roles and learn to care for their special needs brother or sister. The second chapter discusses the complexities of parenting in these situations, including the allocation of time between children and the guilt that may arise from attending more to the child with greater needs. If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

Let's continue with the Musser and Scuderi families as they share their personal experiences of caring for children with life-limiting diagnoses. They discuss how this role has become a sacred calling for them, transforming their view of everyday life and strengthening their faith. If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

Amber and Brandon Scuderi share the deeply personal and moving story of their daughter Evelyn's life with Trisomy 18. They discuss the initial shock and challenges of her diagnosis, the complexity of her medical needs, and the difficult decisions they had to make regarding her care. Throughout their narrative, the Skidaris emphasize the importance of embracing every moment with Evelyn, cherishing her life despite the uncertainties, and relying on their faith to guide them through the toughest times. The Scuderi's approach to caregiving is one of intentional joy and celebration of life, regardless of the fear and potential for loss. They advocate for not letting fear dominate their choices and for sharing Evelyn's story with others to inspire and demonstrate the power of love and faith in adversity. The episode also includes an announcement of an upcoming caregiving series that will further explore the experiences of families like the Scuderi. If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

In this episode of the Abel Speaks podcast, hosts Daniel and Kelly Crawford sit down with David and Katie Musser to delve into their journey as parents of Izzy, their daughter living with full trisomy 18. The Mussers share the ups and downs of their experience, starting with the initial lack of a definitive diagnosis to facing severe medical crises such as seizures and a life-threatening pulmonary hemorrhage. They discuss the profound impact Izzy has had on their lives, reshaping their perspectives on joy, sorrow, and family bonds.  

An impromptu bonus recording to address a current event that relates to the core of our mission.

Ever wondered what makes Abel Speaks unique? We unravel the threads of our ministry and lay bare how we cater to the very specific needs of families who have received a life-limiting diagnosis during pregnancy. Our mission, unlike other organizations, is deeply rooted in relationships and personalized support; we believe that this gives us an edge in the profoundly impactful work we do. We also delve into the cornerstone of our work - the importance of relationships in providing support to these families. Our organization, Abel Speaks, offers a unique level of support, and we can't emphasize enough how crucial it is for those in this circumstance to reach out to us for help. The essence of our approach lies in investing time and energy into one family at a time, offering the intangible support that makes the largest impact for those in the valley of suffering. Come join us, as we endeavour to serve and uplift these families and provide an insight into our unique mission.

What if we told you that the secret to making a profound impact within our ministry lies in the relational dynamics we foster? How does the power of shared experiences shape not just the families we serve, but the mentors guiding them on their journey? As hosts and founders of Abel Speaks, Daniel and Kelly Crawford delve into these questions and more. Walking you through the potent bond between our mentors and the families we serve, we illuminate how these relationships are at the core of our ministry's success, built on the principle of 'support changes stories'.  

Today we focus on the options between full intervention and no intervention. There are myriad choices available to parents, so it is important to have a network of relationships to help navigate these decisions.  

In this podcast episode, Daniel and Kelly Crawford, the founders of Abel Speaks, share their personal journey from the loss of their son Abel in 2016 to establishing a non-profit organization in 2018 that provides hope and guidance for families facing similar situations. The Crawfords openly discuss how their own experience of grief and the desire to help others led them to leave their jobs and dedicate themselves fully to Abel Speaks. The episode delves into the growth of Abel Speaks, from serving a few families to reaching out to families across the US and abroad, and the evolution of their vision, mission, and approach towards providing quality care and support. The Crawfords share how they filled the gaps in care and support for parents dealing with a life-limiting diagnosis for their child, and the transformative power of saying yes to helping others. They also discuss the importance of holding the mission loosely, emphasizing that the mission is ultimately about God's story and the stories he impacts, and that they have the privilege of being a part of. The episode ends with an encouragement for listeners to reach out to Abel Speaks if they are parents in similar circumstances.

Lets talk about who we serve. We support families who have chosen to carry a child with a life-limiting diagnosis. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the diagnoses we work with, including Trisomy 18, Trisomy 13, and Inencephaly, and the comprehensive emotional and physical support we provide to the families.  We will also shed light on the timing and geographical scope of our services. We assure you that it's never 'too late' to approach us; whether you've just received the diagnosis, you're currently caring for your child, or you're grieving a loss, we stand with you. Initially based in Dallas-Fort Worth, we have now extended our reach to all U.S. states and eight different countries. Through this episode, our goal is to convey our message of hope and support to families across the globe. Our mission, our vision, and our unwavering commitment to serve you at any juncture of your journey will be laid bare in this enlightening episode.

Discover how to effectively provide love and support for friends and family members who are going through tough times in this heartwarming Friends and Family edition of the Able Speaks podcast. We'll share our personal experiences and practical tips on how to make your presence felt, from giving a simple hug to sitting in silence and holding space for your loved one's grief.  Learn the art of showing grace and offering tangible help as we discuss the significant role of the body of Christ in caring for those around us. We'll also reflect on the importance of having a one-sided relationship during these difficult seasons and share our own stories of loss and growth. This episode is filled with valuable insights into using your unique gifts and interests to bless and serve your loved ones, as well as how to remember milestones, holidays, and special memories to make them feel valued even from a distance. Listen in and be inspired to be a better friend, family member, and listener during life's most challenging moments.

Are you ready to become the most empathetic and understanding friend or family member during a challenging time? Join us as we share five key principles to help you support loved ones experiencing a pregnancy with a life-limiting diagnosis. We discuss common assumptions and provide guidance on how to avoid them, ultimately allowing you to be a compassionate presence for your loved ones during their difficult journey. Listen in as we explore essential aspects such as not waiting for the perfect words to say, not assuming that others are checking in, and not expecting the parents to reach out for help. We also emphasize the significance of using the child's name and understanding that subsequent children do not replace the one who has been lost. By the end of the episode, you will gain invaluable insights and practical tips to be the rock that your loved ones need during this trying time. Don't miss out on this special opportunity to learn how to be there for your friends and family when they need you the most.

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What Should I Expect If I'm Pregnant Again?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: Am I Ready To Try Again?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

Welcome to the channel! We are glad you are here!  We hope to encourage you and come alongside of you to help in any way we can. 

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What is the biggest obstacle to families receiving great support?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

This is a re-post of Episode #13, which has been the most downloaded and distributed episode.   We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What if I'm uncomfortable accepting help?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: Should I consider having an abortion?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

On this special bonus episode of the Abel Speaks podcast, we're are joined by Todd Wagner to discuss the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade after nearly 50 years. While this mission & ministry has never been contingent on the legality of abortion, it's a topic that frequently intersects with our mission and our families, so we felt compelled to share some initial thoughts with this audience.   What does this ruling mean, and what does it not mean? Does a woman have a right to choose? Should we legislate morality? How has language impacted this topic? Is this truly a complicated and nuanced conversation? How can we maintain clarity and conviction? And what can YOU do to stay engaged and solution-oriented in the present and future?   Abel Speaks exists to support families who have chosen to carry a child with a life-limiting diagnosis. If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What are some practical ways for dads to stay engaged?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: How do dads struggle in this season?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What is the truth about prenatal testing?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: How do I prepare for the death of my child?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: When should I deliver?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What if someone close to me is also pregnant?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: How do I plan a celebration of life?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: Should I make a nursery?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What will my baby look like?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What keepsake items does Abel Speaks provide to the families we serve?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: Should I have a baby shower?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: How and when should I talk to the NICU?   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What do we mean when we say 'support changes stories?'   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: How and when should we process the mode of delivery?   Note on this episode: we are not medical providers, and this topic is intentionally addressed broadly to help give parents categories to consider. Please consult with your medical provider before making any final decisions.   If we can serve your family during this season, please email us support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What if I'm uncomfortable accepting help?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: How did you create meaningful memories on Abel's actual birthday?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: How did you prepare for the hospital experience?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: How do I handle unhelpful people?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What bible passage did you find most helpful during your journey with Abel?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: Did you pray for healing?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What do I say to strangers who comment on my pregnancy?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).  

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: What if I cope differently than my significant other?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child.   This episode's question: How should I keep people updated throughout the pregnancy?   If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child. This episode's question: When and how do I tell others about our diagnosis? If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).    

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child. Today's question: What if my spouse and I are not on the same page as we make decisions about our child? If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).    

We speak to commonly asked questions by parents who have received a life-limiting diagnosis for their child. Today's question: How do you process medical interventions? If we can serve your family during this season, please send us an email: support@abelspeaks.org or visit our website (www.abelspeaks.org).