When Autumn Comes

For those of you who listened in on Season 5, I know you have been at the edge of your seats waiting for Season 6 to start! Season 5 sure was a nail biter, filled with exciting content. Can you sense the sarcasm? I had wonderful guests and lofty plans, but the weight of medical motherhood, running a nonprofit, and life in general certainly kept me from those plans. Don't lose hope though, the podcast is back and this time with backup! Last season, we met Katrina. This season, we bring her back as co-host. Today, we get to hear more about the woman behind the microphone: her family, her hobbies, what makes Katrina, Katrina. “It just made me feel less alone.” -Katrina Here's what you don't want to miss: Eliana Teenagers Relationships between children The diagnosis Just for fun What gives Katrina hope? Medical motherhood can feel so isolating. It is exciting to connect with another mom and share in this journey with you all. Do you have questions for Katrina? Let us know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send us a DM on Instagram! We would love to connect. Don't forget to check out Katrina's Season 5 episode. When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Apply for a Caregiver Package Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.  

Amanda and Suz are talking about the latest encounter they have had with their amazing girls from Heaven.  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Join the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/245467847367923  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project - a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for caregivers of medically complex and disabled children.    Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks!  

The internet is an interesting place. A place of connections, for both good and bad. A place for sharing knowledge, and a place for following people you have never met. Every now and again a creepy internet stalker turns out to be an actual really wonderful person. Every now and again, that really wonderful person turns into a friend. Enter Amanda.  This episode, we get to hear Amanda's story. Amanda is a fellow mito mom of a beautiful little girl who is now watching over her from heaven. She is also an expectant mother of a baby boy. Amanda shares with us her journey, from the grief of losing her daughter, to the celebration of learning she was having a son. We discuss how she manages the two opposing emotions and how she hopes to keep her daughter's memory alive.  “To live in celebration, that's unknown and foreign to me.” -Amanda Here are the details from Amanda and Susan's chat: Introducing Amanda Breaking all of the rules Telling the world Going in all directions Grief and joy together Impossible decisions Letting the legacy live on Medical motherhood is one filled with unique and challenging decisions, as well as unique and challenging emotions, sometimes in opposition and at the same time. Amanda has so graciously shared her story with us today, and I hope that it has been helpful for someone at home. Can you relate to Amanda's story? Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear about how this helped you.   When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Apply for a Caregiver Package   Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.   

When “they” say this journey is a rollercoaster, guys, whoever “they” are, they aren't kidding. These past few months have brought struggles and hardship, along with moments of joy, and glimpses, twinklings, little birdies of hope. Suz is back for an update on life these days and why she has been radio silent on the podcast.  In this episode, we hear about how Suz took selfies with the president. More importantly, we get an update on Benji, and the state of the Apricity Hope Project. Suz talks about priorities and five year plans. Spoiler alert, nothing ever goes as planned. Sometimes you are surprised with how things turn out differently. Sometimes, you need to let go, just a little, in order to grow.  “I am not the only medical momma who is a control freak.” --Suz Here is the what Suz gets into today:  Where are we now? White House Update on Benji Where does that leave Suz? For vs to What's going on with the podcast? Five year plan Medical motherhood is all consuming. How do we take care of ourselves in the process of caring for our children? Do you have tips to do “for” you, instead of “to” you? Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to re-connect.   When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Apply for a Caregiver Package Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  

You've heard it before…medical parenting is not for the faint of heart, medical parenting is a roller coaster. With hospitalizations come tests, and fear, and pain. After discharge, the family processes everything that just happened, the “new normal”. For some, this happens frequently. How do you manage the in-between hospital time, waiting for the next medical change? Today, we meet Katrina. Katrina is a mom of three children, one of whom has medical complexities. Katrina shares with us what it looks like to manage her youngest child's medical complexities, while also parenting two teenagers. We discuss the ups and downs of repeat hospitalizations. We talk about how we all manage the trauma that comes from watching your child experience medical changes, tests, and treatments differently. While some struggle during the hospitalization, others crash once they are home, or in the anxiety of waiting for the other shoe to drop.  “Every time you come home, you have to adapt again, and adapt again, and adapt again.” -Katrina Here are the details from Katrina and Susan's chat: Introducing Katrina Connecting Ellie Hospital Milestones Handling the re-admit The crash Recovery Advice Medical motherhood is often filled with hills and valleys, which are often unpredictable. I hope that Katrina has given you a glimmer of hope when you are deep in a valley. Do you have questions for Katrina or advice for navigating this journey?  Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear about how this helped you. Catch up with Suz: Instagram When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Apply for a Caregiver Package Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children. 

Welcome back everyone! We are so excited for Season FIVE of When Autumn Comes! It has been a summer and we have a lot to catch up on. Today, Susan fesses up about what happened at the end of season four. Season four ended? Why yes it did, but not in the way we intended. You see, Susan has been a busy bee outside of When Autumn Comes, working on some really exciting projects for medical moms. The podcast took a bit of a back seat, but for a really really good reason.  This episode, Susan introduces us to the most amazing, pink, water-front house where medical moms can escape and refresh. Moms-you are going to need to see this place, it is AMAZING! You also meet her wing-woman Christen, the one who reminds her to drink water and edits the podcast… But that is far less exciting than the house. For real, you gotta see the house.   “It's literally on top of the water.” -Susan Here are the details from this episode: Katrina, we are so sorry Apricity Hideaway Where is Diane? Team of two What is going on this season? Is it a gala or a gayla? An EPIC party Benji update We are so excited to launch another season of When Autumn Comes. More than that, we are so excited about the amazing things that the Apricity Hope Project is doing for medical mothers. What are we doing that is the most meaningful to you? Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear about how these projects have helped you. Here at the Apricity Hope Project, we appreciate any size donation. Your donation will help fund our many projects such as hospital go-bags for medical moms, Take five meet-ups, Retreats for medical moms, and the When Autumn Comes Podcast. Donate HERE!     Catch up with Suz: Instagram   When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project   Join Us! Apply for a Caregiver Package Apply for a Retreat Thank you so much for joining us on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.   

You and your child have what probably feels like a million appointments scheduled. Medical specialists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists. All of these people are members of your team. Your child's team. They are supposed to work with you and your child toward a common goal. But who decides what that goal is? And who decides when you've reached it, or how to get there, or when it's time to take a break? Today, we have a chat with Kim. Kim is a physical therapist and owner of a therapy company that specifically works with young children in Early Intervention and outpatient. We talk about the importance of establishing goals that are meaningful for your everyday life. She tells us what to do when the activities in the therapy session don't feel like they match what makes sense for your family, or when personalities clash. Kim gives us insight on knowing when to step back, take a break, and focus on living life rather than making it to appointments; and how to navigate coming back to therapy after a break, when the time is right. Most importantly, she drives home the important point that communication is key with your team.  “No one knows what they don't know if somebody doesn't speak up.” -Kim Here are the details from Kim and Susan's chat: Getting to know Kim Early Intervention  Using what you have  What should parents know? What if it's not working?  Taking a break  Realistic expectations  Finding Kim  What gives Kim hope?  Medical motherhood is often filled with so many appointments. I hope that Kim has shown you that your child's therapist is on your team. Do you have questions for Kim?  Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear about how this helped you.   This episode was sponsored by Children's Therapy Concepts, LLC. You can learn more about their pediatric therapy services that are offered across the state of Virginia at childrenstherapyconcepts.com   Catch up with Suz: Instagram   When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Apply for a Caregiver Package   Connect with Kim: Instagram Facebook Children's Therapy Concepts Email: admin@childrenstherapyconcepts.com Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.  Top 3 tips from this episode: Communicate with your team Identify goals that are meaningful to your family Its ok to change course if that is what your child needs

With a heavy, yet resilient, heart Suz shares a letter on behalf of the Apricity Hope Project. She is explaining a recent “pivot” they are being forced to make. You can read the entire letter on our website: https://apricityhope.org/apricity-place-update/   Catch up with Suz: Instagram   When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project   Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4 am moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.   

I know what you are doing as a caregiver is hard. So let's take five minutes alone, in a quiet place, to just sit. Feel free to cry. Feel free to smile. Do whatever feels right for the next five minutes.  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project - a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for caregivers of medically complex and disabled children.  Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours.  

Merriam-Webster defines grief as “deep and poignant distress caused by or as if by bereavement” or “trouble, annoyance”. The American Psychological Association goes further to include, “Grief often includes physiological distress, separation anxiety, confusion, yearning, obsessive dwelling on the past, and apprehension about the future. Intense grief can become life-threatening through disruption of the immune system, self-neglect, and suicidal thoughts”. Some of us have studied the stages of grief, denial,anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. We are no grief experts; but, with all of these definitions of grief, it is safe to say that everyone's grief experience is uniquely their own.  Today, Jessica and Susan have a chat about their personal experiences with grief. They discuss ambiguous grief, which is grief without closure. We hear about anticipatory grief, or grief before a loss. Jessica gives us insight into secondary losses which flow from the primary loss that is grieved.  This episode is not all doom and gloom. Yes, grief is hard. Grief is painful. Grief is not something that we sign up for. But, in grief, there is hope. And we might just finally get the answer to the question Jessica evaded last week-what gives Jessica hope.  “When we are able to name something, it becomes a little bit less scary.” -Jessica Here's what Jessica and Suz chatted about that you do not want to miss: Grief  Ambiguous grief vs anticipatory grief  Secondary loss  Help in grief  Unexpected grief triggers What gives Jessica hope  Grief is nonlinear and everyone's grief story is unique. Do you have a story you'd like to share?  Come visit us in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear from you. Be sure to get your name on the list for our upcoming retreats for medical mamas and check out our BRING HOPE HOME campaign as The Apricity Hope Project moves forward with a headquarters and retreat house!    Catch up with Suz: Instagram Catch up with Jessica:  Jessica's website Facebook  I Don't Know How You Do It Psychology Today article on secondary losses   When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project   Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4 am moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.   

Every family with medically complex children is impacted in some way by advances in medicine and therapy. Some have the benefit of recent developments. Others hope for cures and treatments on the horizon, yet just out of reach when they are needed most. At some point, do we all believe we will be the ones to finally beat the diagnosis?  In this episode, Susan sits down with Jessica. Jessica is a fellow mito mama. Jessica is also a fellow bereaved mama. She shares the story of her beautiful daughter Dahlia, who was diagnosed with MERRF syndrome. They chat about the steps that led to diagnosis, navigating care for her daughter's medical needs while providing normalcy for her other children, and the opportunity to participate in research towards treatments for this disease.  Jessica shares that the journey toward participating in research was not a smooth one, and not one that led to a fairytale ending. Even with this, she has a beautiful perspective on the benefit of contributing to medical developments. “Because some of the words were too scary, I pushed them to outside of my head altogether.” -Jessica Here's what Jessica and Suz chatted about that you do not want to miss: Introducing Jessica Validation (8:11) The ones to find the cure (13:50) Accepted (17:06) The shift (19:46) Getting in again (20:31) Driving force ( 24:24) What gives Jessica hope (29:56) Every special needs family has been impacted by research, though not all have the opportunity to participate in the research directly. Do you have a story to share? Come visit us in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear from you.   Catch up with Jessica:  Jessica's website Facebook  I Don't Know How You Do It   Catch up with Suz: Instagram   When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4 am moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children. 

Who knew that the moment you became a mother, your whole world would change? I suppose we all did. “They” tell you about the sleepless nights, the infinite love you will have for this new human that you are in charge of. What “they” don't warn you about is the change in your identity. Of course, the day to day routine looks different. You have a new title. But you are changed deeply to your core. Or are you? Is the same girl who was in there before kids still there, just waiting it out until she is no longer a caregiver? This is something that is universal amongst all mothers, medical or not. But in some ways, it will still look different for medical moms. Today, Susan and Diane come together again to discuss identity. They talk through ways in which medical motherhood has changed them, either because of the company they keep, the joys they have experienced, or the trauma they have endured. We hear about what parts of them remain from before they were mothers and their hopes for the future of their identities.  “I didn't lose myself. She just had to be a little dormant for a while.” -Diane Here's what Susan and Diane discuss this time: What is our identity? Identity of our children Who we associate with Season of life  A gift for Susan  What about Diane? A gift from the beginning  Priorities What gives Susan hope?  Motherhood is so rewarding and so very challenging. Medical motherhood means that your season of mothering will be uniquely challenging. Becoming a mother, whether to a typically developing child, or one with medical needs will forever change you to your core. How do you find yourself, or keep yourself, while dedicating all of yourself to caring for someone else?  Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear your take on this.  Catch up with Suz: Instagram When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project   Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.  

Welcome back. Sorry I missed you the last couple of weeks. Things got a bit hectic and I know y'all get it. So today… let's take a mental vacation and getaway for a five minute mental break.  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project - a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for caregivers of medically complex and disabled children.  Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours.  

Do you ever have that feeling deep in your gut that you need to check on your kid, and then they are doing something they shouldn't be doing? Have you ever thought of someone and then the phone rang? Is this just intuition or something more? Today, we sit down with Jen. Jen shares with us her daughter Teal, and the magic within her. We discuss their unique way of communicating with one another, and how Teal's magic has captured those who have been fortunate enough to meet her.  Jen gives us insight into different ways to support our children, other than traditional medicine and therapy. We discuss creating balance between conventional treatments and those that are not always talked about in western medicine. She gives us a variety of resources to explore as we navigate our own journeys with our children, and so importantly, as mothers ourselves. “Why do I have to follow the same path? I don't have the same kid as everyone else.”-Jen Here's what Jen and Suz discuss. You don't want to miss this. Welcome Jen  Meeting Teal  Teal's travels  The magic of Teal  Visiting hours are over Just “mom's intuition”?  Mom magic Different intuitive options Caring for yourself  Preparing the world  What gives Jen hope  Rare disease can be a place of fear, sorrow, and anxiety. But on the other side of that is hope, light, and joy in the small moments. I hope Jen has shown you that it is ok to create your own path, and find support that works for you and your family. Have you explored any non-traditional therapies? What was your experience? Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear about how this helped you.   Connect with Jen: www.ForOurSpecialKids.com  Email: Jen@forourspecialkids.com @ForOurSpecialKids on instagram @ForOurSpecialKids on Facebook Catch up with Suz: Instagram www.suzgeoghegan.com When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4AM Moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.  

With Valentine's Day tomorrow, let's take 5 minutes together to reflect on how amazing YOU are. As parents and caregivers of medically complex and disabled children, we are often forgotten. We spend our days telling our little loves how much they mean to us - but often no one says it back. So today, let's focus on how loved you are and how incredible your mind, body and spirit is that makes you YOU!  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project - a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for caregivers of medically complex and disabled children.  Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks! 

As caregivers we are facing waves all the time. Waves of hope. Waves of grief. Waves of joy. Waves of sadness. Today we are taking five minutes of calm together to ride the waves.  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project - a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for caregivers of medically complex and disabled children.  Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks!   

We can all agree that medicine has come a long way in recent decades. Parents can now receive some diagnoses before their child is even born and receive treatments that didn't exist prior.  Within our society, though there is still a lot of work to do, there have been changes as well. In 1975, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act was signed into law (now known as the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act). This guaranteed access to a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment to every child with a disability. 1975 y'all…1975. That was less than 50 years ago. So, with that in mind, what was it like for families of children with special needs in the 1950's?  Rita, along with her daughter Lou, join us to share Bobby's story. Bobby was diagnosed with Down Syndrome after he was born, and after the doctors gave a less than glowing prognosis for what his life would look like. We hear about his birth, the reaction of the community, and the experience of sending him away to school. We hear the story of a full and fulfilling life that continues to impact those that he touched.  In this episode, we hear stories of physicians using language that is not used today. We hear nicknames that would now cause us to shudder. This was considered normal and generally accepted at the time. Rita discusses how this began to change during Bobby's life. By sharing his story, and what life was like when he was younger, we can see that advocacy, love, and passion of his family and others like them have laid the groundwork for improvements that we see today.  “Out of Bobby being born, I can relate to so many instances where things have evolved.” -Rita Here's what Rita and Lou shared that you do not want to miss: Introducing Rita and Lou (4:05) Bobby is born (5:36) Taking Bobby into the world (8:47) No school resources (12:05) Fun memories (15:49) Changes in acceptance (18:36) Getting a diagnosis (19:58) Leaving Bobby (22:05) Sticking up for Bobby (32:48) Advice from Rita (40:53) What gives Rita hope (41:39) Special needs parenting has its challenges and its joys, no matter what decade you lived or are living through. I hope Rita has shown you that when looking back, you will have fun memories, right alongside the raw tear-filled ones. There is always love and there is always hope. Come visit us in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear from you.   Catch up with Suz: Instagram When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page Links and resources: WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Lou's first When Autumn Comes visit Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4 am moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.

Let's take five calming minutes together this monday. You are exactly who your child needs. But it's also okay to take five minutes for you.   Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project - a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for caregivers of medically complex and disabled children.  Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours.  

Claire is making a 4AM appearance this week. Suz asks about farming - since Claire proclaimed in the last episode that she knows very little about it and wants to do it the rest of her life… Then things get awkward when she informs us that she not only works a farm, runs a nonprofit where she sends care packages to people with chronic medical conditions, but she also sells monuments and tombstones… Yep. We go there. Welcome to the 4AM Mom Club. Connect with Claire: Instagram Facebook Chronically Beautiful Email: info.chronicallybeautiful@gmail.com Apply for a care package February 11! Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Join the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/245467847367923  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project - a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for caregivers of medically complex and disabled children.  Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks! 

Hey there friend! I have a question. What would it mean to you to know that there is someone out there who understands firsthand what it means to live with a chronic illness? Not only understands, but has created a project with the sole purpose of spreading joy and hope to others living with similar life long illnesses. That would be pretty awesome, wouldn't it? Now, what if that person also just happens to be really kind and open about her health and how her illness has changed her family's life.  Today, we meet Claire. Claire shares with us her experience of caring for her mother. Not only caring for her mother, but then becoming the patient herself. We discuss the struggles and the joys, the ups and downs, and the connection she has forged with her family throughout the challenges. We chat about the day-to-day and how they manage to get through the rough times together. “More than anything else, it's the people in your life that matter.” -Claire Here's the play-by-play of Suz and Claire's chat: Getting to know Claire (3:21) Becoming dependent (7:15) The people matter the most (12:50) Making the choice to stay (15:45) Family bonds (17:32) Reality (22:04) Chronically Claire (25:02) What gives Claire hope (34:10) Chronic illness is a journey that is filled with ups and downs. It's a difficult and painful journey, but it's also one of hope. I hope that Claire has shown you that there are people rooting for you, who want to step up and lighten the load, with joy. Have you had the opportunity to share joy recently?  Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear about how this helped you.   Catch up with Suz: Instagram When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Apply for a Caregiver Package Connect with Claire: Instagram Facebook Chronically Beautiful Email: info.chronicallybeautiful@gmail.com Apply for a care package February 11! Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.  Top 3 tips from this episode: No matter what, the people who love you are the most important Staying is a choice Reality can often be harsh, but there will always be hope

To kick off Apricity Hope Project's Take Five program, we are bringing it to the When Autumn Comes Podcast. Our goal is to give you five minutes, once a week, where you can just “be”. Whether you are hiding in your bathroom, listening in the car, or laying in bed pretending to be asleep… try to take five minutes for yourself this week.  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project - a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for caregivers of medically complex and disabled children.  Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks!

Diane joins Suz for the kick off 4AM of Season FOUR! And it's as random as usual. Sidenote: Do you wash your new clothes before wearing them?  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Join the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/245467847367923  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project - a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for caregivers of medically complex and disabled children.  Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks!

We've heard the rumors…Susan and Diane had a massive fight. Diane secretly quit the podcast. They aren't speaking and blocked each other on social media. Are the rumors true? Have Susan and Diane had a massive breakup? Surely there is some tea to be spilled here. So what's the deal?  Today, Diane is back. It is time to dispel some rumors and catch up. Where has Diane been all this time? What's going on in her life? What has changed with Suz since they last spoke on the podcast? Are they speaking in real life? What is going on with the Apricity Hope Project? That was a lot of questions…The girls have a lot of answers.  Get ready to take a deep dive into what Diane has been up to. We get to hear updates on Selah and whether they are any closer to a diagnosis. We hear about Benji and how Susan is doing in therapy. The girls discuss the direction of the podcast in the future. Buckle up, it's going to be a ride. Here's what Diane and Suz discuss. You don't want to miss this. Welcome back Diane (5:44) What's new? (8:02) Stuck in limbo (15:37) Benji (20:06) EMDR therapy (21:44) Grounding techniques (29:29) Apricity Hope (31:49) You should be better by now (42:33) Medical motherhood is a journey. A journey that sometimes feels like a rollercoaster. Sometimes a good roller coaster, with great views and a best friend by your side. Other times, the stomach in your throat, just lost your cell phone  on a loop-de-loop roller coaster. You never know how the day will go, but we hope we are building a community of friends who are riding alongside you, ready to help fix your hair and dig your phone out of the bushes after a bad roller coaster day.  Join our community over at When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to have you join us for the ride.   **Care(Giver) Package Application opens 1/20! Watch AHP on social for the link!**  Catch up with Suz: Instagram www.suzgeoghegan.com When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project   Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4AM Moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children. 

As we wrap up a year, one of my favorite guests is back for a visit. Daniel Defabio is back on the show to catch up and tell us about his newest project - a “late night style” show for those who are part of our medically complex, disabled community.  Additionally, I realized that I did not explain the changed that When Autumn Comes has faced - so I dish a bit about that a couple times today.  “What makes us angry? What do we need people to know? We're not complaining, we're just explaining and we emphasize there's plenty of good stuff in our lives too, but we don't need to fix the good stuff.” -Daniel   Connect with Daniel: On instagram @disorderrarediseasefilms https://www.thedisordercollection.com/   Catch up with Suz: Instagram www.suzgeoghegan.com   When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4AM Moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.

We are not sponsored by Starbucks but we would be thrilled if they were interested in partnering with two exhausted medical, rare disease mamas who trive on peppermint mochas and survive on caffiene. Suz and Brittany bond over coffee during this 4AM bonus content. Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan @evie.thing.setd5 on instagram Join the conversation: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks!

Every one of us is special. Every one of us needs connection. When we connect with people who are “like us,” how do we find connection in rarity? Where do we go for support when we are one of a very few who share a similar story? Today, I have the pleasure of introducing you to Brittany. Brittany's daughter Everleigh has a rare disease called SetD5. At age 3, she is one of approximately 300 others worldwide with this diagnosis. In fact, she is the only one with her specific subtype. Because of how rare her disease is, there is a lot of unknown about her future. But her present is filled with love.  Brittany shares with us the importance of advocacy, providing a voice for your child when even the doctors don't fully understand what is going on medically. She shares her tips for finding and building a community even when there are so few who share exactly what you are going through. She shares the joy and light that is Everleigh. What I especially loved is how open she was about the process. This is a journey. We all are doing our best to move through this journey one step at a time. “I start small. I'm starting small and I will work my way up, as I can, but I'm learning.” -Brittany Here's what Brittany discussed that you do not want to miss:  Introducing Brittany (2:24) All about Everleigh (4:16) Competing diagnoses (6:43) Spreadsheets and planning (10:11) Asking for help (14:49) Carrying the mental load (18:44) Connection in the community (22:56) Raising Rare (25:13) What gives Brittany hope (29:19) Rare disease can be a place of fear, sorrow, and anxiety. But on the other side of that is hope, light, and joy in the small moments. I hope Brittany has shown you that there is a community out there, with others who understand what you are going through, even when you are rare. How do you find community?Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear about how this helped you.   Connect with Brittany: @evie.thing.setd5 on instagram RaisingRare.fm WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Catch up with Suz: Instagram www.suzgeoghegan.com When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page   Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4AM Moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.

Hey mama. Motherhood is really really hard. Medical motherhood, foster motherhood, adoptive motherhood…motherhood in all of its many forms is hard.  Regardless, every journey to motherhood is unique, and yet so very similar. What do medical motherhood and foster/adoptive motherhood have in common? We're so glad you asked.  This week's guest, Tracy shares her unique journey into motherhood. From foster mom, to no kids at home, to adoptive mom. She opens up about the challenges she has faced navigating mental health needs for her children and leaves us with a very important takeaway, and glimmer of hope.  Tracy has five children, who came into her family in different ways. She has one stepson and four adoptive children who joined her family initially through foster care. Additionally, her family has touched the lives of several other foster children throughout the years. We bonded over our shared understanding of trauma and the importance of finding support with mental health.   “Trauma is real early. Childhood trauma is real and you can't love that away, you just can't. The older children…when they come into care, the more trauma they've actually seen and experienced. ” – Tracy In this episode, Tracy shares her story from fostering to adoption and her family's navigation through trauma and mental health. Here's what Tracy shared, be sure not to miss: Welcoming Tracy (2:38) How does fostering work? (4:43) Fostering children with different needs (7:08) The journey from fostering to adoption (8:45) Grief in the journey (14:56) Reaching out through Facebook (17:02) Childhood trauma (18:41) Judgements from others (21:18) Navigating mental health (28:41) A glimmer of hope (37:27) Advice for new moms (39:57) What gives Tracy hope (42:33)  How to find a community (43:52) Foster parenthood and adoptive motherhood are emotional journeys as you strive to love your children and help them navigate trauma and change. This journey is challenging and messy at times, but also filled with joy and hope. I hope that Tracy has helped to show that even throughout the challenge, the messy, the scary, there is support, there is hope for the future. Do you have experience with fostering or adoption? Do you have experiences you would like to share with other mothers? Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear about how this helped you.   Catch up with Suz: Instagram When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4AM Moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.  Top 3 tips from this episode: Find your squad Make it ok to talk about mental health Accept the love

We know that it is scary to learn that your child(ren) may need extra pieces of medical equipment to survive. Medical technology should never be positioned to us as a “last resort” when in reality it is often life saving game changers for our kids.  Tia is here, sharing her family's story. I met Tia and Hendrix when Benji and I were in the NICU and then we continued to cross paths frequently when Lorelei and I were in the PICU.  Tia talks about what it was like when they began to discuss a tracheostomy for her son, how it made them feel, the fears they faced and where they are now.   “I think that when we think of medical devices or medical equipment with kids, it's like, ‘Dang, what quality of life are they gonna have?' Well, they're gonna have the quality of life that you provide for them!” - Tia I hope today's episode with Tia helped you see that even in the midst of big life decisions for your children, you have other families who see you and know how you feel. What big decisions have you had to make for your children? How has it made you feel? Let's talk about it in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram!   Catch up with Suz: Instagram When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page Links and resources: WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4 am moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.

Hey mama. A NICU hospital stay is like stepping into another world – one where there are a whole lot of questions. What do these medical terms mean? What are these numbers? How do you advocate for yourself and your baby? In the midst of worrying about your child's health and wellbeing, you're wondering about all of this. It's a lot. That's why this episode is for you… I planned to share my experience and the experiences of others during NICU Awareness Month, but September came and went and content didn't get out (if anyone understands that, it's y'all!). Now we're back and our guest, Meredith, returns for a third time for season three's special episode celebrating NICU awareness. Meredith has four children, including two with disabilities, one with cerebral palsy, and another with down syndrome. We bonded over things like medical trauma and PTSD, and being two-time NICU moms. “You've been thrown into a situation where you need to celebrate the fact that your baby's life has been saved. Yet, you're so sad because you didn't get the cute pictures of your baby after they were born, you know? So you have to be able to share that with somebody. And there are other people who get it.” – Meredith In this episode, Meredith discusses what emotions she felt during her second NICU stay and why it was so different from her first one. Here's what Meredith discussed that you do not want to miss: Welcoming Meredith (4:17) A quick recap (5:55) First NICU stay for a military family (9:48) Hospitals in the US vs hospitals abroad (17:59) Atypical vs. typical births (27:15) Entering a special needs lifestyle in a foreign country (33:10) The medical system in the US and abroad (35:05) Two-time Nicu moms share their advice (38:58) Advice for those who know someone in the NICU (41:53) What gives Meredith hope (45:12) The NICU is an emotional valley where all you want is to hold your baby and go home without monitors or numbers. It's a difficult and painful journey, but it's also one of hope. And I hope today's episode with Meredith helped you see that even in the midst of something like this, you have other NICU moms to support you. What was your experience like or what advice would you give to other NICU moms? Let me know in the When Autumn Comes Society or send me a DM on Instagram! I'd love to hear about how this helped you.   Catch up with Suz: Instagram When Autumn Comes: WAC Instagram WAC Facebook Page WAC Society Facebook Page Links and resources: Meredith: Part One – God's Puzzle Pieces Meredith: Part Two – The Feast WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project Thank you so much for joining me on this journey. Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review so we can reach more 4 am moms with medically complicated, rare, beautiful children.  Top 3 tips from this episode: Learn how to navigate the NICU Discover why community is so important Find out what to say – and what not to say – to NICU moms

If you need a good chuckle, you will love today's 4AM with my guest Olivia. We talk about a legit 4AM boob graze, strategies for wearing a bra while in the hospital, and a new nonprofit she is starting one day.  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Join the conversation: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks! 

Meet Olivia and her beautiful family. Her youngest son, Archer, was born with a slew of medical complications and was later diagnosed with not one, but two rare diseases: Kabuki Syndrome and RYR1. This family has had to make some logistical decisions, including career and geographic moves, to make sure their entire family is balancing the best way they can. Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: Two rare genetic syndromes that do not play well together The Teeter Totter: spouses handling tough news Born at the start of the pandemic… plus career shifts, and postpartum depression The language of trauma The lady in the grocery store  Links and resources: Learn more about Archer and Kabuki Syndrome WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project: apricityhope.org  Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You! 

We are kicking off season three just as everyone is kicking off a brand new school year! With that, our first guest is Beth Liesenfeld from the Parent IEP Lab. She is an incredible resource for parents who are navigating the school system for our medical and special needs kids. Today she breaks down a lot of information but she also invites you to her FREE Parent IEP Advocacy Summit with over 15 speakers and a TON of information. Link below to sign up for the summit!  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: What is an IEP and how does the process work?  IFSP vs IEP What goes into an IEP Priorities - including safety, communication and behaviors It's an emotional but legal process.  Vision statements and learning standards What to do when things are not going well  Links and resources: Parent IEP Advocacy Summit: https://courses.theieplab.com/a/2147518470/d83e8M6W The Parent IEP Lab Podcast: https://pod.link/1584271582 WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project: apricityhope.org  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!

Thank you all so much for your patience as Suz navigated life without a computer for weeks and weeks. We are BACK and we are thrilled to be here for our third season! We have amazing, exciting, semi-terrifiying (if you're Suz) BIG NEWS to share in this preview episode so give it a listen. Lastly we are sharing details about the upcoming (free) Parent IEP Advocacy Summit that is happening this week where Suz will be one of 15+ speakers!  Links and resources: Parent IEP Advocacy Summit: https://courses.theieplab.com/a/2147518470/d83e8M6W WAC is a program of the Apricity Hope Project: apricityhope.org  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!  

We know that traveling can be overstimulating for neurotypical individuals, but how does it affect our children who are already sensory sensitive? Amy, from Floyo Travel, is talking with Suz today about tips for traveling with the right mindset for special needs families who may struggle with sensory processing disorders.  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: The importance of practicing before your trip Sensory travel tips, including locating the “safe + quiet spot” when you arrive Sensory support: TSA Cares Expectations in the moment Links and resources: Mentioned in this episode: Grief in Progress Shirt Connect with Amy: www.floyotravel.com  Do you love WAC? We are independently produced and would appreciate your support. Join the HOPE FULL Community on patreon and help us keep the lights on while connecting with more families!! www.patreon.com/suzgeoghegan Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You! 

Amy from Floyo Travel is opening up and sharing all of her tips and tricks when it comes to communication while on vacation. We talk about communication for our nonverbal children, but also communication roles as parents and caregivers.   Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: What does it look like to work with a travel agent?  Communication devices and options while traveling  Medical travel card and why you should have one Communicating your family's needs Links and resources: Connect with Amy: www.floyotravel.com  Do you love WAC? We are independently produced and would appreciate your support. Join the HOPE FULL Community on patreon and help us keep the lights on while connecting with more families!! www.patreon.com/suzgeoghegan Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You! 

This week Amy from Floyo Travel is sharing tips and tricks for cruise ship travel. She is also talking about traveling as a family with special dietary needs. Join her and Suz as they continue the When Summer Comes Series. We are keeping these episodes short and sweet, and packed full of travel tips for medically complex, disabled families.  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: Dietary needs and feeding supplies Secret cruise ship tips Trip insurance for medically complex families  Travel precautions and resources Links and resources: Connect with Amy: www.floyotravel.com  Do you love WAC? We are independently produced and would appreciate your support. Join the HOPE FULL Community on patreon and help us keep the lights on while connecting with more families!! www.patreon.com/suzgeoghegan Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You! 

Amy from Floyo Travel is joining Suz for our When Summer Comes Series. We are keeping these episodes short and sweet, and packed full of travel tips for medically complex, disabled families. This week Amy is sharing travel tips related to mobility needs of families like ours.  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: Staycation practice Loosening up the schedule  Mindset  ADA + travel  Equipment to bring Finding the right place for your family Links and resources: Connect with Amy: www.floyotravel.com  Do you love WAC? We are independently produced and would appreciate your support. Join the HOPE FULL Community on patreon and help us keep the lights on while connecting with more families!! www.patreon.com/suzgeoghegan Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!    

Amy from Floyo Travel is joining Suz for our When Autumn Comes - scratch that - When Summer Comes Series. We are keeping these episodes short and sweet, and packed full of travel tips for medically complex, disabled families. This week we are kicking things off by talking about the always important respite.  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: Meet Amy's Family Doing what works for your family Accepting and navigating help from others  Summer respite tips for caregivers  Links and resources: Connect with Amy: www.floyotravel.com  Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!  

I cannot believe we are wrapping up season two of When Autumn Comes. This season finale episode is another “solo suz” episode where I talk about a few things that have been weighing heavy on me lately. Y'all know I struggle with the solo episodes because I prefer talking to someone directly in front of me - but it felt good to get these feelings out and I'm pretty sure some of you may be able to relate.  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: I love words  Birthdays and holidays Assessments and evals  Skatepark and Fraps  Links and resources: Sign up for the book club here: https://forms.gle/M492Vunqcd9UdToMA Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!  

Remember that reading game we played in school that left you terrified and anxious? Yep - that one. Leah is here and we are talking about the game Popcorn in preparation for our WAC Summer Book Club. We are reading Leah's book Loving You Big together! Join us! Link to sign up below.  Links and resources: Sign up for the book club here: https://forms.gle/M492Vunqcd9UdToMA Connect with Leah and learn more about her book:: www.lovingyoubig.com Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Join the conversation: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks!

Leah is back! Since we last met her, early in season one, she has released her debut memoir, Loving You Big. It is a story of beautiful, loving, chaos that so many of us can relate with and feel comfort in knowing that we are not alone in this journey. Leah and Suz are hosting the When Autumn Comes Summer Book Club together! Join us as we read Loving You Big as a group throughout the summer. It will be low key, messy and full of hope.  Links and resources: Sign up for the book club here: https://forms.gle/M492Vunqcd9UdToMA Connect with Leah and learn more about her book: www.lovingyoubig.com Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!  

Happy Fathers Day to all the dads out there! This week, instead of having a mom share her story, we invited a dad to the show! Daniel introduces us to his family, he talks about what it feels like to be a rare disease father as he faces the ‘it's not fair' moments as well as the waves of grief. Daniel is one of the founders of the Rare Disease Film Festival and the Disorder Channel where they showcase rare stories.  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: What we felt when we heard our children could be nonverbal Timing throughout the journey “This isn't fair” vs “why me” mindset Career change for rare Waves of grief  Links and resources: You can watch films on The Disorder Channel with a Roku or Fire Stick Learn more about Disorder Channel: www.thedisordercollection.com Connect with Daniel: www.instagram.com/disorderrarediseasefilms Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!  

Janice is back! Scroll back and listen to episode 5 called “Quarantine Blessings” to hear her full story. Today we are simply two bereaved medical, special needs moms talking about what has helped our grief journeys and what has not. Trigger warning: this episode is raw, candid and plenty of tears were shed.  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: Bereaved Mothers Day Hayden's House of Healing  Advice for newly bereaved mothers What does not help bereaved parents Grief and pets Links and resources: Learn about Hayden's House of Healing: www.haydenshouse.org Meet Team Jules: https://4jules.weebly.com Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!  

We are chatting about camping today, as a follow up to Kristy's episode this week. Diane shares a story about porkchop juice and Suz shares a story about stolen pretzels with cinderella birds. We also 100% recognize that maybe these stories are why we have both become glampers instead of campers…  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow Di: @diane.kay.erdman  Join the conversation: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks!

You are about to meet a brave mama who will do whatever it takes to make sure her children are receiving the best care, best support and best adventures they can possibly imagine. Kristy and her husband packed up their family (during a global pandemic) and moved across the country so her son Robbie could receive better care. Then they became campers and started traveling with their new RV around the country, exploring all the handicap accessible parks and trails they can find!  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: Drowning as a family to take care of medically complex son Realizations due to the pandemic Florida → Colorado  Make-A-Wish “I want to go camping!”  RVing tips for traveling with a disabled child Links and resources: Learn more about Kristy and her family: www.accessibleadventures.net Follow Kristy on social: @accessible.adventures  Freebies for you: www.SuzGeoghegan.com/Freebies  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!  

4AM: Meditative Laundry  Diane wants to know if folding laundry can count as self care. Suz wants to know why Diane walks so fast. This one is all over the place.  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow Di: @diane.kay.erdman  Join the conversation: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks! 

After her daughter, Nina, passed at 8 years old from Rhabdomyosarcoma (soft tissue cancer) Stephanie continued on, facing waves of grief along with her husband and two other children. 15 years later, Stephanie is now leading grief support groups, helping other parents process the loss of their child(ren).  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: Diagnosis + loss within the grief journey Processing grief as a child Honoring and remembering your child(ren) after they pass Everyone's grief journey is different Links and resources: Freebie: How to Help Your Grieving Friend - and not be a jerk.  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta www.suzgeoghegan.com/freebies Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!  

Today's guest is… Suz? She is taking on the mentality that many of us face when we feel “out of practice” when we are thrown into the hospital with our child.  Topics discussed that you do not want to miss: Brain fog happens when you walk into the Emergency Room It's okay to feel all the feels Suz gives a few of the tips that help her during hospital stays Visit suzgeoghegan.com/freebies to get a copy of the communication sheet Suz mentions in this episode Links and resources: Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta www.suzgeoghegan.com/freebies Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You!  

Join us for a trip down memory lane with Kristen as she shares stories of hospital shenanigans and treatment recovery slumber parties with her sister Samantha.   Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow Di: @diane.kay.erdman  Join the conversation: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks! 

Kristen is a “cancer sibling” who vulnerably opens up with us about what it was like to lose her sister (and later her mother) to cancer. She shares how her family created as much joy as they could during tough hospital stays, how they hung onto memories with family  vacations, and how they found hope for the medically complex community with their nonprofit called Samantha Makes It a Little Easier - SMILE.  Topics we talked about that you do not want to miss: Receiving your sister's cancer diagnosis as an older sibling Creating good times and bonding relationships during hospital life The sibling connection throughout treatment and after death Creating a nonprofit in honor of your loved one while grieving What to do when someone is grieving What SMILE does for our community  Links and resources: Learn more about Samantha Makes It a Little Easier: www.smileasier.org  Looking for a therapist? Start here: www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Join the WAC Society to talk about all things pod related: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Catch up with Suz: @suzgeoghegan on insta See what Diane is up to: @diane.kay.erdman on insta Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories from other members of our medical and disabled community.  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star rating and a review!  Thank You! 

This is NOT a 5 minutes at 4AM. We are updating you a bit on the pod, talking about next week's guest and the memorial garden she is building in Suz's backyard, sleep talking and spitting, AND vitamins for the who ha… All of this for Mothers Day. Happy 4AM.  Links and resources: Follow Suz: @suzgeoghegan Follow Di: @diane.kay.erdman  Join the conversation: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesSociety  Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhenAutumnComesPodcast Follow us on Instagram: @WhenAutumnComesPodcast Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming stories of medical and special needs parenting from families like yours. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review? Thanks!