Afleveringen

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 232
    Understanding Genetic Counseling - Essential Insights for Parents – Navigating Appointments, Referrals, Testing, and Insurance with Expert Abby Turnwald MS CGC

    Abby Turnwald is a genetic counselor here to talk about genetic testing and the crucial role genetic counselors play in guiding families through the complexity of genetic testing and understanding the results. We'll discuss what parents can expect for their first appointment, the importance of seeking a referral, tips for navigating insurance coverage and the significance of re-analyzing genetic reports. 

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    What is genetic testing and what does the first appointment involve?
    Genetic counseling appointments are for a specific reason, condition, or symptom and can be with just a genetic counselor or with a genetic counselor and a geneticist, which is a physician. A genetic counselor will gather intake information about your child's medical history, family history and developmental history. They will also discuss genetic testing options and answer any questions you may have. Depending on insurance, sometimes genetic testing will happen at the first appointment, and sometimes it will require prior authorization. A physician may do a physical exam and work closely with the geneticist to determine the best plan for your child. 

    Why is it important for parents to consider doing genetic testing?
    There's a lot more to a diagnosis because there's likely a genetic cause. Finding a genetic cause can be helpful in parents not holding onto any guilt they may feel. It can also open you up to a community for specific conditions where other parents are actively advocating for their children. Other genetic conditions may have health conditions parents may not know about, so it's important to know. Genetic testing can tell you the recurrence risk if parents are considering growing their family. Even if we don't find a genetic answer, it rules out a lot of other genetic conditions and that can be helpful for your care team. 

    Can you talk about the barriers to genetic testing and how to overcome them?
    The biggest barrier is the wait time to get to genetic testing after you have a referral. It's often about a year, but go ahead and schedule it and look for other places you may be able to go. You can also ask your provider to order genetic testing before you see genetics. If your doctor doesn't think genetic testing is necessary, ask for the referral anyways. Genetic testing should be for anyone who has symptoms that are unexplained. Most insurance covers genetic testing now, but if a claim is denied it can be appealed. There are also more and more labs offering sponsored genetic testing if your child meets certain criteria. 


    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    Project Findout
    https://projectfindout.org/
    Probably Genetic
    https://www.probablygenetic.com/
    CTNNB1 Connect & Cure
    https://curectnnb1.org/
    NSGC Find A Counselor Directory
    https://findageneticcounselor.nsgc.org/
    Follow Abby Turnwald on Instagram
    https://www.instagram.com/pedsgcabby/


    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
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  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 230
    Balancing Rare Disease Advocacy and Family - Navigating the Complexities and Embracing Imperfections with Nikki Stusick

    Nikki Stusick is the mom of a child with an initial VUS diagnosis and then a different pathogenic diagnosis. We talk about the complexities of balancing advocacy work, family life, when to choose one over the other and when to take a break.

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Can you tell us about yourself and your diagnostic journey?
    I am a mom of three children and my oldest, Theo, was diagnosed a month after his first birthday with a rare condition called TBCK Syndrome. We started a foundation to build a community. Then, four years later, we found out that one of the genetic mutations offered a different diagnosis. With the misdiagnosis, we have been at a crossroads because we have built and grew a community for the initial diagnosis, but our advocacy efforts need to shift. We have been working to put the right people in place to carry the foundation forward and I'm still figuring out at what level I want to stay engaged.

    How do you navigate and find balance between spending time with family and also your advocacy efforts?
    When Theo was diagnosed, I jumped into advocacy to heal and cope and that's how I've learned to channel my emotions into something tangible and taking action helped me. In the last two years, I've felt like I am missing out on time with my kids and I've had to take a step back from advocacy a bit to just be a mom. I have no regrets for outsourcing care to do advocacy work and I'm grateful to be a part of the community, but I want to be clear on what makes sense for this chapter of our lives and what my goals are. I'm figuring it all out as I move through it.

    Have you felt societal pressures about how to balance family and advocacy and how do you validate your advocacy commitments?
    I feel lucky that everyone around us is supportive and has shown up for us in many ways. If anything, I've been my harshest critic. I push when I can and I don't beat myself up when I have low energy or high emotion days.

    What advice do you have for parents trying to balance family and advocacy?
    Listen to the touchstones you come back to, your inner voice, because that's your truth. Have self-compassion and don't beat yourself up as you find balance and determine what your family needs are.

    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    Librarey
    https://www.librarey.com/
    The TBCK Foundation
    https://www.tbckfoundation.org/


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    Website
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  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 229
    Uniting Strengths - Rare Disease Collaboration on a Shared Patient Registry Through Sanford Cords with Cure Mito and Hope for PDCD Leaders Frances Muenzer Pimentel and Sophia Zilber

    Frances Muenzer Pimentel and Sophia Zilber have united the Hope for PDCD Foundation and the Cure Mito Foundation to launch a global joint registry and they're here to share about the collaboration.

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    What is a registry and why does a patient group need to have one?
    A registry is a way to organize data as it relates to a particular disease. It's useful to bring the community together to learn where patients are in the world, aligning patients with clinical trials, and monitoring how a disease progresses over time. Sharing and publishing results collected in the registry also helps to bring awareness about the disease. 

    What inspired the launch of a joint registry?
    Our populations have an overlap in patients and we wanted to make it as easy as possible for patients and caregivers to participate in the registry. In addition to centralizing the registry overlap, we've made the process optimized for mobile, all in one place and as seamless as possible. 

    What is the importance of participating in a registry and a natural history study?
    Participating in a registry and natural history study are among the most important things you can do to contribute to the research of your disease. It doesn't cost anything but your time and there's no better way to get an accurate count of the patient population than through patient registries. This tool helps with having conversations with biotech companies and to prove that you're a commercially viable disease. 

    What is next for the registry and what are your goals?
    We still have a lot of work left to evangelize the registry and educate our community on the difference between a registry and natural history study, explaining how crucial they both are. The work we're doing with the registry combined with newborn screening advocacy and we won't be able to be ignored anymore. 

    How can rare disease families start a registry?
    There's a working group called Best Data Practices for Rare Disease Patient Foundations and Researchers on PHUSE with resources available on how to start a registry. The materials are easy to read and follow and they're available to everyone. 

    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    Global Genes Conference - Week in RARE
    https://globalgenes.org/week-in-rare/
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 228 - Strength In Unity - The Power of Consolidated Rare Disease Advocacy, Collaborative Breathroughs, and the Every Cure Initiative with Dr. David Fajgenbaum
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-228-strength-in-unity
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 194 - A Guide for Rare Disease Patient Advocacy Groups - Choosing and Designing a Patient Registry with Sophia Zilber
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-194-a-guide-for-rare-disease-patient-advocacy-groups
    Patient registries: a practical guide for patient organizations
    https://sophiazilber.gumroad.com/l/registries
    Hope for PDCD Foundation
    https://www.hopeforpdcd.org/
    Cure Mito Foundation
    https://www.curemito.org/
    CoRDS
    https://cords.sanfordresearch.org/account/login
    Best Data Practices for Rare Disease Patient Foundations and Researchers
    https://advance.phuse.global/display/WEL/Best+Data+Practices+for+Rare+Disease+Patient+Foundations+and+Researchers


    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
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    https://twitter.com/OnceUponAGene
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  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 228
    Strength In Unity - The Power of Consolidated Rare Disease Advocacy, Collaborative Breathroughs, and the Every Cure Initiative with Dr. David Fajgenbaum

    Dr. David Fajgenbaum is is a groundbreaking physician-scientist, disease hunter, speaker, and national bestselling author of Chasing My Cure: A Doctor's Race to Turn Hope Into Action. He joins me to discuss the critical role of unity among our rare disease patient advocacy organizations and why it's important to stick together. We'll also talk about the transformative potential of everycare initiative.

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Why is it critical for rare disease advocacy organizations to strive for unity?
    When there's splintering of fracturing among disease groups, there are less resources within each effort and there's a risk of duplicating efforts. There are also only so many experts to participate in a scientific advisory board and there may be competition for those experts among groups.

    What is your best advice for organizations who may be experiencing competition or friction?
    Friction happens because we care so much and we're driven to find treatments and solutions. When you want rapid solutions, it's important to recognize that the objectively best and fastest way to make an impact is working together collaboratively and consolidating resources.

    What advice do you have for ultra-rare disease organizations that are worldwide and have a unique issue of centralizing patients and financial strength?
    In the past I've seen this done well where existing organizations support new organizations starting in new regions of the world by sharing resources and materials and being a supportive partner. It's critical for disease organizations to work together on a global scale.

    Can you tell us about Every Cure and how it aims to revolutionize treatments for rare diseases?
    Every Cure is on a mission to unlock the full potential of every approved drug to treat every disease possible. When a drug is approved for one condition, there's often dozens of other diseases that the drug might be effective in. Every Cure was launched when learning that there was an incredible untapped opportunity to treat more diseases than approved drugs were originally intended for. There are also systemic barriers that prevent the untapped potential from being tapped into. I'm alive, along with thousands of other patients, because of drugs not intended for a disease that we re-purposed.


    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    Chasing My Cure: A Doctor's Race to Turn Hope into Action; A Memoir
    https://chasingmycure.com/books/
    Every Cure
    https://everycure.org/
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 043 - David Fajgenbaum - Chasing My Cure - A Doctor's Race to Turn Hope into Action
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-43-david-fajgenbaum
    Share Your Drug Repurposing Insights
    https://everycure.org/insights/


    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
    Twitter
    https://twitter.com/OnceUponAGene
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    https://www.instagram.com/onceuponagene.podcast/?hl=en
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    https://ww
    w.facebook.com/groups/1877643259173346/

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    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
    Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

    Coaching Opportunities
    Pathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me
    Join The Special Needs Mom Podcast Community FaceBook Group!! Click here to Request to Join

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 226
    From Classrooms to Communities - Parents Visionary Journey in Education, Living, and Advocacy for Inclusion and Epilepsy Funding with Jillian and Scott Copeland

    Jillian and Scott Copeland are husband and wife, advocates and pioneers who have transformed their personal journey of having a child diagnosed with epilepsy. They have taken off on a quest to create supportive and inclusive environments for kids with disabilities and founded a school, an inclusive living community and the Epilepsies Action Network. They're a force also shaping the policy landscape.

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Can you first tell us about yourselves and your family?
    Our journey started about 30 years ago and we've had four sons. Our third son, Nicol, is about to turn 25 years old and when he was 8 months old, he had a prolonged seizure for over two hours and it took us on a different parenting journey than we expected. Since then, we've raised our children together and explored opportunities and possibilities for Nicol, which took us down the path that brings us to today. Our journey with Nicol has given our family a lot of meaning and purpose and it's been an amazing journey.

    Given that genetic testing hasn't revealed answers for what has caused his epilepsy, how have you managed to navigate the uncertainty and maintained such positivity and strength?
    Nicol is the lead, the model and we follow his example. Nicol is a wonderful model and he shares a lot of love and joy. He will have a terrible seizure, have to be medicated, feel awful after and wake up the next day with joy. We've had to manage fear and worry, but we take on Nicol's "the sky's the limit" and "can-do" attitude. We don't have the power to control or change a lot, but we do have a choice in how we see it and how we live life. We're both controlling people, but we had to come to terms with what we couldn't control. We'll keep living to the fullest and sharing and feeling love the best we can.

    Can you tell us about The Diener School?
    When Nicol was six, he was attending a school that wasn't the best fit for him and we decided to start a school. We found great partners and professionals to help us and we started The Diener School in 2007. The school is a multi-sensory experiential approach with very talented educators, therapists and behavior specialists who work with the kids and with each other. There are elements of the connection of movement and learning, social thinking and other essential curricula and strategies needed for kids who don't learn traditionally and learn through the senses.

    What is Main Street all about?
    Main Street is a 70 unit building in Rockville, Maryland where 25% of the units are set aside for individuals with disabilities and 75% of the units are affordable, serving households at 60% or less of the area's median income. On the ground floor, there's a 10,000 square foot community space and it's an inclusive environment open to anybody through membership. It's a place for people to find their happy, to be a part of a community and feel like they belong.

    What is the Epilepsies Action Network?
    Epilepsies Action Network brings together a widespread community of epilepsies in one unified voice to lobby the federal government for funds for the epilepsies because it's an under-funded disease, and as a result, there haven't been a lot of treatment advances or breakthroughs.


    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 224 - The Complicated World of ICD10 Codes with CEO and Co-Founder of SLC6A1 Connect - Amber Freed
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-224-the-complicated-world-of-icd10-codes-with-ceo-and-co-founder-of-slc6a1-connect-amber-freed
    Epilepsies Action Network
    https://www.epilepsiesactionnetwork.org/
    Rare Epilepsy Network
    https://www.rareepilepsynetwork.org/
    The Diener School
    https://thedienerschool.org/
    Main Street
    https://mainstreetconnect.org/

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 225
    The Bravery of the Brokenhearted - A Big Brothers Perspective on Grief From the Loss of a Sibling with Sanfilippo Syndrome with Noah Siedman

    Noah Siedman was a big brother to Ben who had Sanfilippo Syndrome, a devastating disease that leads to childhood dementia and premature death. He joins me to talk about his sibling experience and dealing with grief.

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    As a sibling under potential pressure to not be a burden, do you still carry those feelings even after Ben's passing?
    It's hard as a sibling to see everything your parents are facing that's out of your control. As a sibling, there's a need to be on top of your own care and your own emotions. There were no casual complaints in my family growing up. It was either a disaster or business as usual. Filling in that middle space where you have a bad day and want to talk about it didn't exist. We've had to work on that as a family because that's not how we've functioned. 

    What coping mechanisms help you to write and talk about your experience?
    I came to the realization that I was going to be emotionally vulnerable, which is uncomfortable. Knowing I would have to talk about my experience and brother, I had to accept it, put it out front, and get really good at talking about it comfortably. I got more comfortable talking about the progression of my brother's disease and my feelings around him, and I used it as a shield. 

    What would you say to the young person who is living the same life you were living and what questions should people ask that person?
    The first thing that I would say, and maybe the best thing to ask that person, is about their roles. When do you feel like a sibling? When do you feel like a caregiver? When do you feel like you're an advocate? When do you feel like you are just you? I got stuck in trying to be a lot of those things at once, where the easiest role to ignore was being just me. But everything you push down morphs into something worse. Frustration turns into resentment, fear turns into trepidation, sadness becomes melancholy. 

    What are the misconceptions people have about death?
    The biggest problem with grief is that no amount of experience is applicable. It defies the ability to be prepared for it or to use your past to help you cope. I don't think grief gets easier, I think you get better at it. Those that try to give advice to people that are grieving are hanging on to the idea that that time will heal. It's not that your grief goes away, it's that you get better at it.

    How has your relationship with your sister changed?
    Ben's death brought us closer and we do a good job of communicating despite handling things differently. There's no right or wrong way to navigate life with a sibling who has a genetic disorder, so we don't judge each other and we're honest with each other. 

    As a parent, how do you help siblings to have a better experience?
    Abandon the idea that you owe siblings normalcy. My parents put a lot of effort into delivering normal childhood experiences. Instead, put that energy into helping your children articulate what they want. More important than chasing normal is helping siblings decide what's important to them and how to pursue it.

    LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED
    ONCE UPON A GENE - Episode 109 - A Rare Collection - What I Know For Sure with Noah Siedman, Grayson Skibington and Nash Hawkins
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-109-what-i-know-for-sure

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  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 224
    The Complicated World of ICD10 Codes with CEO and Co-Founder of SLC6A1 Connect - Amber Freed

    Advocate, rare mom and Founder of SLC6A1 Connect, Amber Freed joins me to talk about ICD-10 codes— the frustrations, the battles, and the common-sense changes we're fighting for in the rare disease community that are pivotal to research, recognition and treatment of so many rare diseases. 

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    What are ICD-10 codes?
    In 1999, the ICD-10 code was developed by the World Health Organization and it was used to track mortality coding from death certificates. It was the way people were tracked when they died, but it also became the way people were diagnosed and treated for conditions. Today, they drive so much in clinical medicine. When you go to the doctor, they will input a code of the flu, strep throat, or whatever ailment you're affected by. In a practical sense, it is how the doctor bills insurance. 

    How do misused ICD-10 codes affect our kids?
    They are the bones of our healthcare system and it impacts rare disease because when we go to the doctor and describe our children's symptoms, we need a code to represent diseases so we can be recognized as a legitimate disease and population and so that patients can be tracked in our healthcare system. 

    What does an organization need to know and what is the process for applying for an ICD-10 code?
    There are two chances per year to obtain an ICD-10 code. You submit a formal application and if you're selected, you can present before a committee and then it'll be a year to be issued a code. The application is pretty straightforward, with a scientific component and a clinical component. With a medical board of advisors, it's not hard to complete the application and gather materials. 

    How can we as a rare disease community fight to help make changes around ICD-10 code use and issuing. 
    As a community, we need to get the Rare Disease Legislative Caucus involved, get the White House involved, talk to our senators and congressmen. We need to all apply for ICD-10 codes and get loud, tweet about it, talk about it, get noticed. 


    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    ICD-10 Code PAG Action Plan
    Combined Brain
    https://combinedbrain.org/
    EveryLife
    https://everylife.com/
    NORD
    https://rarediseases.org/
    Global Genes
    https://globalgenes.org/
    SLC6A1 Connect
    https://slc6a1connect.org/
    Email Amber
    [email protected] 


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    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
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  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 223
    Rare Epilepsy Network with Ilene Penn Miller and Christina Sanlnocencio

    Ilene Miller and Christina SanInocencio are advocates doing groundbreaking work at the Rare Epilepsy Network (REN), a volunteer network of epilepsy organizations banding together, sharing research efforts, and improving the lives of rare epilepsy patients and families. They're here to share about the inception and mission of REN and the resources available through membership.

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    What gap did establishing REN fill?
    REN was born out of the need for smaller organizations to have more information about constituents and their experiences and not being able to secure the funds to do that for themselves. Ten rare epilepsy organizations came together and were awarded funding to create the first rare epilepsy network registry that had the capacity to collect information across all rare epilepsies.

    How do you engage, continue to grow and support your community?
    We host monthly meetings and we bring in researchers, partners, speakers and other organizations to bring information to our members that they can use. Most recently we had panelists come in to talk about mortality, which is a hard topic to discuss, but our members are dealing with this in their own communities. The panel shared resources and best practices and we're assembling a collaborative working group to continue making these resources available to the network. We also have a list serve which includes all REN members where anyone can ask questions. The discussions that happen as a result are so valuable and helpful. We have a referral network so we can refer researchers, academics, clinicians and other industry professionals to the organizational partners, support groups and patient organizations they can engage in. We stay connected with these communities so we can connect the dots and match-make and help everyone find their tribe. Our monthly newsletter includes all the latest REN news, we share resources, highlight organizations and organization leaders.

    What are the future goals for REN?
    We pulse our members to see what's most important to them and two years ago, we focused on multi-disciplinary clinics because we heard from members that there aren't enough of them. We took a deep-dive into multi-disciplinary clinics and organized meetings at the Annual American Epilepsy Society Conference to bring together 100 researchers, clinicians and patient-advisory group leaders to work on the challenge. This year we're working on clustering to determine where there's synergy between epilepsy commonalities. 

    Why should a patient organization or support group join REN?
    There's no cost to be a REN member and you can engage at a pace that works for you, whether you serve on a committee and be active in work groups, or you can just watch, learn and share information as it's appropriate. 

    What resources do you wish current REN members better utilized?
    For current members, I'd like to see more engagement on social media using the hashtag #rareepilepsies in all posts. If any syndrome or disorder has epilepsy as a symptoms, using the hashtag #rareepilepsies can help build public and professional awareness. Our monthly member meetings are very actively engaged with 50+ organization leaders attending and sharing insights, so if you aren't coming to those meetings, you're missing out. 


    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 207 - Breaking Barriers in Brain Health with Tracy Dixon-Salazar, PhD
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-207-breaking-barriers-in-brain-health-with-tracy-dixon-salazar-phd
    LGS Foundation
    https://www.lgsfoundation.org/
    Hope for Hypothalamic Hamartomas
    https://www.hopeforhh.org/
    American Epilepsy Society
    https://aesnet.org/
    Epilepsy Foundation 
    https://www.epilepsy.com/
    Undiagnosed Disease Network 
    https://undiagnosed.hms.harvard.edu/
    Courageous Parents Network
    https://courageousparentsnetwork.org/

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 222
    Krabbe Disease with Kasey Feldt

    Kasey Feldt is the mom of two- one year old Lukas and Dawson, who passed away from Krabbe disease. Kasey has become a passionate and unstoppable advocate, not only advocating for Krabbe disease, but also the newborn screening system so kids have a better chance at early detection.  

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Can you tell us about yourself and your rare disease journey?
    My son Dawson was diagnosed with Krabbe disease. He was born a healthy baby boy and at about three months old, my husband and I noticed symptoms such as lack of head control, eating difficulties and irritability. We began testing and at about six months old, we received a diagnosis of Krabbe disease, a terminal diagnosis. We kept Dawson comfortable for about eight months following his diagnosis and he passed away at fifteen months old. 

    What is your advice for someone interested in policy advocacy?
    Search and find out who your local lawmakers are, especially your Delegate. The EveryLife Foundation is a good source for information on policy advocacy and can help you to be successful. Also, gather your disease community because the more the merrier. 

    How has advocating for Krabbe disease and newborn screening impacted you?
    It became my passion to advocate for Krabbe disease, but also rare disease in general. When Dawson passed, I knew I wanted to do this work as a career. I started working for Sisters' Hope Foundation and it's been an amazing experience and honor to Dawson. 

    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 214 - A Courageous Gift - The Power of Brain and Tissue Donation in Rare Disease Research with Anne Rugari
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-214-the-power-of-brain-and-tissue-donation-in-rare-disease-research
    ONCE UPON A GENE - Episode 111 - The Importance of Newborn Screening in Every State with ALD Alliance Founder Elisa Seeger
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-111-elisa-seeger-ald-alliance
    ONCE UPON A GENE - Episode 128 - Sisters’ Hope Foundation President and Founder Heidi Edwards on Recognizing ALSP Symptoms and the Importance of Genetic Testing
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-128-heidi-edwards
    EveryLife Foundation
    https://everylifefoundation.org/
    KrabbeConnect
    https://krabbeconnect.org/
    Hunter's Hope
    https://www.huntershope.org/
    Krabbe Families Facebook Group
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/krabbefamilies/
    Librarey
    https://www.librarey.com/
    Sisters' Hope Foundation
    https://sistershopefoundation.org/
    World Orphan Drug 2024
    https://www.terrapinn.com/conference/world-orphan-drug-congress-usa/
    GeneDX
    https://www.genedx.com/
    Beyond The Diagnosis
    https://www.beyondthediagnosis.org/

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    Website
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  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 221
    BeginNGS - Newborn Genomic Sequencing to End the Diagnostic Odyssey with Dr. Stephen Kingsmore, Wendy Erler and Tom DeFay

    I'm joined by Dr. Stephen Kingsmore, Wendy Erler and Tom DeFay to discuss BeginNGS, a ground-breaking initiative that stands at the forefront of genetic sequencing and rare disease diagnosis. 

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    What led to the creation of BeginNGS?
    Rare genetic diseases are an immense health ecosystem challenge- receiving a timely diagnosis. On average, it takes 4.8 years to diagnose a child with a genetic disease, and meanwhile, symptoms continue to worsen and the disease progresses. The goal of BeginNGS is to prevent or reduce the impact on children with rare genetic diseases, minimizing suffering, cost and delay of diagnosis. 

    Why is BeginNGS an important initiative to support?
    Anyone connected to the rare disease community shares the same vision for a world where every rare disease patient receives the right effective treatment at the right time. That starts with changing the diagnostic odyssey and ensuring early, fast diagnosis.

    What is the mission of the BeginNGS Consortium?
    The BeginNGS Consortium is a partnership of pharmaceutical and biotech companies, sharing a vision of the right effective treatment at the right time. Our vision is ultimately to ensure every baby born in the United States has the opportunity to be screened for rare disorders. What differentiates this program and the consortium is that the patient communities have been represented from the beginning and the patient population communities has been impressive. Some of our working groups are led by members of the patient community to make sure that what's delivered is valuable to the patients. 

    What are the major pain points to leveraging newborn screening for preventable disorders and broad use of rapid diagnostic genome sequencing?
    Pediatricians rarely order genome sequencing. We estimate only 2% of children who need the testing get it. Additionally, even when testing is ordered, it doesn't always translate into optimal treatments and there can still be delays in life-saving treatments. 

    What does the future look like for BeginNGS?
    The BeginNGS Consortium is comprised of rare disease advocacy organizations, parent support groups, healthcare systems, policy makers, experts in academic medicine, biotech companies developing new genome sequencing methods and pharmaceutical companies developing new treatments for rare genetic diseases. We hope to increase the size of the consortium so we can grow the organization and capture every voice and represent every genetic disease. Another strong aspiration is to raise grant support and funding to complete and deploy our pivotal clinical trial. 


    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    BeginNGS
    https://radygenomics.org/begin-ngs-newborn-sequencing/
    Alexion
    https://alexion.com/
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 213 - Finding Strength In Every Step
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-213-finding-strength-in-every-step
    Frontiers 2024 Conference
    https://radygenomics.org/frontiers-conference/


    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
    Twitter
    https://twitter.com/OnceUponAGene
    Instagram
    https://www.instagram.com/onceuponagene.podcast/?hl=en
    Built Ford Tough Facebook Group
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/1877643259173346/

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 220
    A Rare Collection - From Financial Strain to Supportive Gain - A Call For Action

    There's power in storytelling- for the listener and the storyteller. A Rare Collection is a monthly series featuring people from the rare disease community, sharing a story with a common theme. 

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
    Katie Scheid
    The beginning of my care-giving journey was filled with trauma, disbelief and a complete re-shaping of the life I knew. My daughter Millie is three and a half years old and I am her full-time, unpaid caregiver. She suffered a severe stroke just before she was born, resulting in complete care for the rest of her life. She is blind, can't sit or hold her head up, can't speak or control her body's movements. She's tube-fed and has over 50 seizures each day. In Washington, kids like Millie, whose needs qualify for in-home care, can have any person be their hired care-giver, except a parent. Millie was assessed and allocated for 185 hours per month of paid, in-home care-giving to alleviate the burden on us as her primary care-givers. After 6 months, we didn't receive a single applicant. I quit my job to be her care-giver and we've struggled to live on one income since. Parents Empowering Parents of Washington (PEPWA) is a group of over 550 advocate members working to change the laws in Washington. We are leading the fight to access the service our kids qualify for and we demand better for ourselves and our kids.

    Lindsey Topping-Schuetz
    On January 10th, I testified before the Washington State House Committee on Human Services, Youth and Early Learning in favor of HB2184. This legislation would authorize payment of parental care-givers of minor children with developmental disabilities. January 10th is a significant day for my family. Seven years ago, my husband and I would leave the hospital for the first time with our son, Owen. He spent 103 days in the NICU. We walked down the hallway lined with staff and family, everyone clapping and cheering. Owen came home dependent on oxygen and a feeding tube. He would have dozens of episodes a day that left him struggling to breathe. At three years old, Owen was granted hours to pay someone other than my husband or I to care for him. It's nearly impossible to utilize these hours because there's a shortage of nurses and they're not provided with the medical training required to care for my son. Care-giving a child like Owen goes well beyond parenting. The financial hardship has burdened our entire extended family. HB2184 has the ability to change the lives of families like mine. It is time for Washington to acknowledge the work of parent care-givers in the same way as all other care-givers.

    Emily Holloway
    I'm the mom of four children and I live in Virginia. Our daughter Chloe was diagnosed with a rare disease of her lymphatic system. While her life was seemingly normal for the first eight years, we drove head first into the medical world when she began showing signs of the disease. Working full time wasn't realistic, so I left my teaching career and our family income was cut in half. Chloe receives g-tube feedings and several medications, she needs assistance bathing and walking, she attends weekly therapy sessions and she requires a lot of care. I was given the opportunity to become her paid care-giver and I was thrilled to be home caring for Chloe, contributing to our finances, an opportunity that ended when the pandemic and medical lockdown concluded. Medicaid believes care-takers now need to head back to work and hire care-takers for their children. Additionally, there's a maximum amount of care hours a child can receive, regardless of their needs. The best interest of children is missing from these regulations. We hope our legislators will allow the parents who know their children best, love them the most and are the biggest advocates for their well-being, to remain their care-takers and receive a small reimbursement to help pay living expenses. 

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 219
    Genomics England Clinical Lead for Genetic Counseling - Amanda Pichini

    Amanda Pichini is a genetic counselor from Genomics England, here to share their initiatives and mission. 

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
    What is your role at Genomics England and how did your career develop?
    I work at Genomics England as the Director of Clinical Implementation and I'm responsible for the strategic clinical leadership for our products and services, ensuring research, diagnostics and clinical programs we support are in line with the latest healthcare standards and research. Prior to joining Genomics England, I worked as a genetic counselor, a profession I was interested in for a long time. When I started studying biology, I was keen to do something that allowed me to communicate and speak to people, but still be immersed in science. While my role isn't patient-facing now, I bring my genetic counselor skills to understand the complexities of genetics in healthcare and how we communicate to various audiences to design and deliver our programs.

    What are the current initiatives at Genomics England?
    Since the 100,000 Genomes Project, we are focused on working with the NHS to provide genome sequencing as a standard clinical test. We've worked hard to ensure healthcare professionals understand how to help families through the process, manage their expectations and potential results of genome sequencing. We're also focused on looking at different types of sequencing technology we can use to enhance the testing and care for cancer patients, and also a newborn genomes program which is part of a large-scale national research study called the Generation Study. This study will sequence the genomes of 100,000 newborn babies with a goal of understanding if sequencing in the newborn period can help identify rare conditions earlier in life, with the ideal goal of improving the quality of life and outcomes for the babies identified as having a rare condition.

    Can you talk more about the newborn screening?
    Like in the US, we do a heel prick when a baby is about 5 days old at the parent's discretion. We recommend it as public health and to look for rare conditions that could be treated if found early. We currently test for 9 conditions, but the Generation Study is an optional screening in addition to standard newborn screening. It will be available to parents at different hospital sites, a baby doesn't already need to be ill and parents don't have to have a known history to participate. At birth, a small amount of cord blood will be taken and that sample used to carry out genome sequencing and to look for around 200 rare conditions that we feel would have an early intervention option if found through screening. We will follow up on every test, with much closer monitoring and follow-up where a condition may be positive.

    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    Genomics England
    https://www.genomicsengland.co.uk/
    Genetic Alliance UK
    https://geneticalliance.org.uk/
    Genetic Alliance US
    https://geneticalliance.org/


    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
    Twitter
    https://twitter.com/OnceUponAGene
    Instagram
    https://www.instagram.com/onceuponagene.podcast/?hl=en
    Built Ford Tough Facebook Group
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/1877643259173346/

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 218
    James G Robinson - More Than We Expected Author - Five Years with a Remarkable Child

    James Robinson is a dad and the author of More Than We Expected: Five Years With a Remarkable Child, a deeply moving book and a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the importance of community and the boundless love that families share in the face of adversity. 

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
    Can you tell us about your family and what inspired your book?
    My wife and I have three sons, one who was a twin born with a congenital heart defect called heterotaxy that died at age 5. My book is a memoir, a story of our years together and why it was such a privilege to be Nadav's father.

    How did writing your book impact your healing process?
    When Nadav died, I felt a tug to write about his life. Right after he died, we took a roadtrip across the US, just to feel the relief of the open road. I first wrote an essay about the trip, Road to Recovery, that was published in The New York Times and a lot of people wrote in to talk about how they had gone through similar experiences. I realized that sharing our story was valuable to others. I started writing on topics we had been through to get things out of my brain— faith, anatomy, food, music. Getting things on paper was a relief, but I also wanted to leave things written on paper for his brothers so they knew what we went through and how I dealt with it. In many ways, the story is about how I found the strength to tell his brothers that he died.

    What is your advice for other parents who are in a position of making tough medical decisions for their children?
    There's a lot of ambiguity in medicine and that informed much of my decision making because I came to learn to educate myself the best I could, but then ultimately go with my gut. 

    How did your family's faith influence decisions you made for Nadav?
    Faith was complicated for us, not that we doubted our faith, but our eyes were opened to what faith really is. There is something about faith that brings people together and I think that's the best aspect of faith— the importance of connection and strength in troubling times when and where you may not expect. After a surgery, we learned Nadav wasn't doing well and that he would either stabilize or deteriorate over night. Despite the news, my wife pointed out that it was up to Nadav and that she could live with whatever he decided because she trusted him. That was a statement of faith more profound than I've ever experienced. It wasn't hope, it was faith, and that was powerful for me and the faith that carried me through a lot of times of uncertainty. 

    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    More Than a Memoir Website
    https://morethanamemoir.com/
    More Than We Expected: Five Years With a Remarkable Child
    https://www.amazon.com/More-Than-We-Expected-Remarkable/dp/1637588224
    Road to Recovery
    https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/07/travel/road-trip-family-grief.html
    More Than We Expected: A Conversation with Father and Author James Robinson
    https://courageousparentsnetwork.org/events/more-than-we-expected-a-conversation-with-father-and-author-james-robinson

    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
    Twitter
    https://twitter.com/OnceUponAGene
    Instagram
    https://www.instagram.com/onceuponagene.podcast/?hl=en
    Built Ford Tough Facebook Group
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/1877643259173346/

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 184
    More of Everything - How I Became a Better Parent to My Child With Extreme Special Needs By Lifting My Emotional Burdens With SYNGAP1 Mom - Janie Reade

    Janie Reade is an author and mom to three adult sons, one with a severe neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a mutation in the SYNGAP1 gene. We'll talk about her unique perspective as a parent and also about her book, More of Everything: How I Became a Better Parent to My Child with Extreme Special Needs by Lifting My Emotional Burdens.

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Tell us about yourself and your family.
    I am married with three adult sons. Joey is our second child and he lives in a group home. When he was younger, he wasn't developing as he should and started biting his hand. When he was little, he wasn't hurting himself, but as he aged stress made biting worse and there was little I could do to help. After he went to a group home, he stopped biting a couple days later. 

    Can you talk about your book?
    The goal of the book was to show who I am and how I think. The first portion of the book is a series of vignettes starting at age four, going through age 21. At the end of each is a looking back section where I summarize about that time and a lesson section about my takeaways. I also talk later in the book about acceptance and frustration. Finally, I talk about parent coaching, which is what I do.

    Growing up with Joey, did either of your other two sons grow up and go into a compassionate-led career?
    No, but they're both very compassionate and emotionally-aware people. My oldest son volunteered as a peer counselor when he was in high school. It was a way for him to talk to people and help them through problems. He has a very emotionally deep soul. My youngest son has always been very inclusive and a connector of people. After Joey moved and I was very sad, my oldest son told me that our family was a group project and that, just like in a group project, we had to do what was best for everyone.

    How did you find community support and what did it change for you?
    I tried support groups and they weren't a good fit due to the severe intellectual disability my son has. When he was younger, I was told he would catch up, so I didn't fit in an intellectual disability group either. I didn't find people for a long time. 


    LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED
    The Two Disabled Dudes Podcast - Episode 215 – Birthday Parties Can Be Tough
    https://twodisableddudes.com/215-birthday-parties-can-be-tough-with-guest-host-effie-parks/
    The Disorder Channel
    https://www.thedisordercollection.com/
    Emotional Agility: Get Unstuck, Embrace Change, and Thrive in Work and Life
    https://www.amazon.com/Emotional-Agility-Unstuck-Embrace-Change/dp/1592409490
    More of Everything: How I Became a Better Parent to My Child with Extreme Special Needs by Lifting My Emotional Burdens
    https://www.amazon.com/More-Everything-extreme-special-emotional-ebook/dp/B0BQ2C7HNL
    Janie Reade Website
    https://janiereade.com/

    TUNE INTO THE ONCE UPON A GENE PODCAST
    Spotify
    https://open.spotify.com/show/5Htr9lt5vXGG3ac6enxLQ7
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    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/once-upon-a-gene/id1485249347
    Stitcher
    https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/once-upon-a-gene
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    https://overcast.fm/itunes1485249347/once-upon-a-gene

    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
    Twitter
    https://twitter.com/OnceUponAGene
    Instagram
    https://www.instagram.com/onceuponagene.podcast/?hl=en
    Built Ford Tough Facebook Group
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/1877643259173346/

    Interested in advertising on Once Upon a Gene? Email [email protected] for more information!

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 217
    Uniting Science and Hope - COMBINEDBrain and its Quest to Transform Research and Treatment for Rare Genetic Neurodevelopmental Disorders with Terry Jo Bichell

    Terry Jo Bichell is a rare mom, neuroscientist and the founder of COMBINEDBrain, a nonprofit organization revolutionizing the approach to clinical treatments for rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorders by pooling efforts, studies and data. 

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Can you share a little bit about yourself and how you came into the rare disease space?
    I am a mom of five grown kids and my youngest is 24 years old and has a diagnosis of Angelman syndrome. With that, everything that was interesting to me wasn't interesting anymore and I turned my attention to neurological, genetic and developmental things. I worked as a nurse and midwife before my youngest son was born and I took a particular interest in research. Research felt like it was taking forever and I had the innocent notion that I could push things faster if I only had the right science degree, so I went back to school and got a PhD in molecular neuroscience.

    What inspired you to form your organization, COMBINEDBrain?
    While I was working on my PhD, scientists figured out treatments for Angelman syndrome and a way to measure if the compounds were working was needed. I was drafted to work on the Angelman Biomarkers and Outcome Measures Alliance (A-BOM) and learned I could take what  I knew about Angelman and apply it to a lot of other similar disorders. I started COMBINEDBrain to take the lessons from A-BOM and expand it to as many other disorders as possible. 

    What are COMBINEDBrain's key services and programs?
    The biorepository has over 900 individuals represented and we collect all samples to be used for biomarker studies for use in stem cells. We have a COMBINEDBrain registry that any disorder member can use for free and transfer data into their own portal. Project FIND-OUT has a goal of facilitating early diagnosis of rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorders in infants based on 7 symptom categories. In the future, we'll also expand this offering to adults. 

    Can you tell us about the COMBINEDBrain Roadshow?
    Many of our participating member organizations are having conferences this year across the country. We have asked each organization to open their conference to other member organizations so we can collect COMBINEDBrain member samples at those sites. This allows us to meet local families and opens up an opportunity to stop by the conference and submit their donation. We can also send a mobile phlebotomist to patient homes to collect and submit samples. 

    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    COMBINEDBrain
    https://combinedbrain.org/
    Angelman Syndrome Foundation
    https://www.angelman.org/
    The Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics
    https://cureangelman.org/
    Simons Searchlight
    https://www.simonssearchlight.org/
    Rare-X
    https://rare-x.org/
    Probably Genetic
    https://www.probablygenetic.com/
    AmbitCare
    https://ambitcare.com/geneticseizures/
    Project FIND-OUT
    https://projectfindout.org/

    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
    Twitter
    https://twitter.com/OnceUponAGene
    Instagram
    https://www.instagram.com/onceuponagene.podcast/?hl=en
    Built Ford Tough Facebook Group
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/1877643259173346/

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 201
    A Rare Collection - Five Advocacy Aces Share Their Conference Commandments
    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Melissa Hioco, STXBP1
    DO:

    Offer a family hospitality room where parents can see the broadcast and stay involved in the conference.

    Provide sibling spaces and make them feel special. 

    Spend the extra money to provide a buffet dinner and a kid's buffet with kid-friendly food.

    Ask for discounts on everything.

    Find a local AV company who will work within your budget.

    Create sponsorship tiers and ask for sponsorship.

    Provided one-on-one genetic counseling to families at no cost.

    Provide social opportunities for families to connect with researchers. 

    Utilize an event center with a hotel for accessibility. 

    Research if a city or state has incentives available when holding events there.

    DON’T:

    Offer childcare because it's a liability.

    Provide a plated dinner because it's logistically complex.

    Accept the initial quote you're provided without trying to negotiate costs.

    Use the hotel's AV company because the cost will be higher.


    Trish Flanagan, HNRNPH2
    DO:

    Invite not just impacted families to your event, but also the researchers carrying out studies about your rare disease. 

    Poll your community about event location, dates that work best, and discussion topics. 

    Provide speakers with plenty of notice when inviting them to a conference. 

    Make sure your event space adequately supports the patient and families' needs.

    Be transparent about the cost, inclusions and exclusions of the event. 


    DON’T:

    Don't leave the research team to organize and schedule patient assessments without your input. 

    Don't overlook having an interpreter and special equipment that may be needed.


    Amy Fenton Parker, BDSRA 
    DO:

    If your budget allows, utilize a professional conference planning team.

    Include a family reunion reception or party so families can reconnect.

    Schedule separate break-out sessions for moms, dads, siblings, and other caregivers.

    Use a technology provider who will make suggestions for the best outcomes and to make your conference dynamic.

    Explore pre-recorded sessions and livestreams.

    Offer a breakfast buffet so guests start their day off right.

    Provide trained professionals for childcare and make parents aware of the offering.

    Take advantage of area professionals who can offer services at the conference.

    Create a planning committee to brainstorm ideas and help on the day of the event.

    Utilize your board to assist with speakers


    Kara Kilroy, JdVS
    DO:

    Make space for families to connect and share. 

    Manage volunteers well, meeting with them in advance to communicate plans and coordination.

    Spend money on AV to ensure you have the right set-up in-person and also capture recordings and/or livestreams.

    Sit with families and take everything in, enjoying the moment and appreciating all your hard work. 

    Have a planning committee.


    DON’T:

    Don't expect perfection and be ready to roll with changes and pivot.

    If you provide childcare, ensure you have options for different age groups and different needs so parents get the most out of their attendance. 


    Ashley Point, KdVS
    DO:

    Recruit volunteers.

    Find a host family in the local area to accept shipments, recommend local services and companies and connect you with volunteers.

    Work with an event site company who understands your needs and who can negotiate costs on your behalf. 

    Fundraise, fundraise, fundraise. Ask, ask, ask.

    Set a budget early, but stay flexible.

    Set a rough agenda based on what's important to your community.

    Be sure to allow for time for families to gather together and add breaks during the event. 

    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    STXBP1
    HNRNPH2
    BDSRA
    JdVS
    KdVS
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 200 - Fundraising Strategies for Patient Advocacy Organizations Raising Money for Rare Disease Research with Lindsay Stevens

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 216
    Soundtrack of Silence - Love, Loss, and a Playlist for Life with Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2) Patient Advocate - Matt Hay

    Matt Hay has a disorder called Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and how he has more than overcome the challenges that came with it— he has thrived because of it. He is the author of a new book, Soundtrack of Silence: Love, Loss, and a Playlist for Life. 

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Can you talk about the inspiration for your book?
    NF2 causes tumors to grow on nerves and I have benign tumors on my hearing nerves. So while my ears work, the nerve that connects my hearing and my brain has been damaged and I'm deaf as a result. I felt a responsibility to put into words what I've been through because I once felt like I didn't have anyone to turn to. 

    Can you tell us about the soundtrack and collecting the songs on the playlist?
    When I came face-to-face with losing my hearing, I knew I wanted to hold on to music and the memories associated with specific songs. The soundtrack is a collection of songs associated with my experiences with rare disease. I started listening to songs with intention and considered the songs I wanted stuck in my head for the rest of my life, the ones I wanted to reflect back on in sorrow and joy. 

    Can you talk about your mindset to thrive?
    I spent a lot of time when I was younger, pretending my NF2 challenges didn't exist, hiding symptoms from others, putting so much energy into trying to exist as a person in spite of my disease. I realized later that through my challenges, I had learned to be a better listener because of my hearing loss. I became more empathetic because I have experienced in my own life that it doesn't matter how hard you try, some things are out of reach. I wouldn't have developed these skills without having NF2 and I'm proud of how it has shaped me and what I've learned from it. 

    What is your advice for others who want to tell their story?
    Having spent a lot of time advocating for myself and others, I notice this belief that someone has to be a polished speaker to tell their story. When it comes to sharing your story about rare disease, the more real and authentic, the more impactful. Your story is absolutely worth telling. And sometimes if you don't feel capable, just existing is enough. 





    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    Soundtrack of Silence: Love, Loss, and a Playlist for Life
    https://bookshop.org/p/books/soundtrack-of-silence-matt-hay/19995432?ean=9781250280220
    Soundtrack of Silence on Spotify
    https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1GCTtdXb5zzJO0OMMZbcfv?si=0a9c377b237d4675
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 214 - A Courageous Gift - The Power of Brain and Tissue Donation in Rare Disease Research with Anne Rugari
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-214-the-power-of-brain-and-tissue-donation-in-rare-disease-research
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 215 - Beyond the Crossroads- Rebuilding and Reclaiming Identity After Sacrificing Careers for Caregiving with Emily Crawford
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-215-beyond-the-crossroads
    ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 209 - A Leap of Faith - Rare Disease Moms on the Bittersweet Joy of New Babies
    https://effieparks.com/podcast/episode-209-a-leap-of-faith
    Matt Hay on Instagram
    https://www.instagram.com/hearmatthay/

    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
    Twitter
    https://twitter.com/OnceUponAGene
    Instagram
    https://www.instagram.com/onceuponagene.podcast/?hl=en
    Built Ford Tough Facebook Group
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/1877643259173346/

  • ONCE UPON A GENE - EPISODE 215
    Beyond the Crossroads- Rebuilding and Reclaiming Identity After Sacrificing Careers for Caregiving with Emily Crawford

    Emily Crawford left her lifelong dream job of being a teacher to surrender to the demands of care-giving. She joins me to discuss identity loss and metamorphosis after becoming a parent to a medically complex child. 

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    Can you tell us about your family?
    I have four children— Chloe is my middle child. The first eight years of Chloe's life was seemingly normal and she hit all the expected milestones. At eight years old she started presenting unique symptoms and she was eventually diagnosed with a rare, life-threatening illness of her lymphatic system, called central conducting lymphatic anomaly (CCLA). 

    How has Chloe's diagnosis affected your career and how did the shift affect your sense of personal identity?
    I wanted to be a teacher my whole life. Right before Chloe was diagnosed, I was at the pinnacle of my career, being recognized as teacher of the year, presenting at teaching conferences and I loved living my passion. Immersed very quickly and suddenly into the medical parenting world, I had to give up my career teaching. It's a personal struggle not to be teaching and the shift has been difficult. The shift was dark and isolating and I felt like I didn't have anything to contribute to the conversations with teacher friends. I wasn't connected to anyone else around me and I also experienced jealousy in my marriage because my partner was still able to work. 

    How have you adapted to your new role?
    The biggest part of my journey has been to take part in mental health therapy, which has been really helpful for me. I get to the gym every day and I am part of the OUAG walk group. I look for pockets of time where I can do things for myself, like walking the parking lot when my daughter is in therapy sessions. I have leaned into my network of friends who have put in the time to learn about what I'm going through and I make time to have dinner or to see a movie with them. My children are my #1 priority, but I am Emily and I stay connected to myself the best I can. 

    Can you share about your recognition as a CPN Parent Champion?
    I found CPN when I was researching pediatric palliative care and I knew my teaching skills would lend well to the Parent Champion opportunity. That role has led me to my people. We're all doing big things, parenting, doing the hard stuff and we can relate well to each other. 


    LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED
    Walking Club Facebook Group
    https://www.facebook.com/onceuponagene.podcast/
    Courageous Parents Network
    https://courageousparentsnetwork.org/


    CONNECT WITH EFFIE PARKS
    Website
    https://effieparks.com/
    Twitter
    https://twitter.com/OnceUponAGene
    Instagram
    https://www.instagram.com/onceuponagene.podcast/?hl=en
    Built Ford Tough Facebook Group
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/1877643259173346/