Child Life On Call: Parents Of Children With An Illness Or Medical Condition Share Their Stories With A Child Life Specialist

Dr. Maureen Michele brings such a valuable perspective to the podcast with her experience being a pediatrician and mother to a medically complex child. Maureen shares with us how to become an advocate and what inspired her to write a book called, 'Reclaiming your Life.' Her book is meant to guide parents who have a child with a medical diagnosis. Maureen shares a snapshot of her book through a thoughtful conversation with Katie. [4:00] Introductions [6;00] Motherhood and Medical School [7:02] Learning her daughter had neuroblastoma as an infant [8:00] Her daughter shared concerns about frequent urination [8:42] Learning she had type 1 Diabetes [10:00] How it changed her as a physician [12:21] Realizing what was unhealthy [14:50] Losing herself in the process and worry [16:00] Doctors are human too [17:30] Trust but verify [18:16] Collaboration between parents and doctors [19:30] Approaching the situation with a spirit of collaboration [24:16] Reflecting on her daughter's care [25:30] Wanting to be a mom, not