Episode 17 - The Two Sides to Awareness Months - Pride and Sorrow

In this solo episode, I talk about Awareness Months, or Days, when a particular disorder is acknowledged. October is Rett Syndrome Awareness Month, and as a mom of a young woman with Rett syndrome I support many activities this month to raise awareness about Rett.  Many other disorders are acknowledged in a similar way, with specially designated months of days. There can be two sides to how parents of children with disabilities handle these months/days. First, with pride and enthusiasm, sharing stories and facts to educate others. Many parents host fundraisers to support research efforts. In contrast, there can be a deep feeling of what has been lost due to the disorder. I find myself feeling Bittersweet about this - holding two contrasting feelings simultaneously.  We all feel heartache at times and it's important to share the stories of loss and longing to help lift us all collectively.  In this episode I talk about the need to share openly and not apologize for our sadness.

I reference a terrific book, "Bittersweet" by Susan Cain. Here's an Amazon affiliate link if you'd like to learn more about this topic: https://amzn.to/3fKOqJB

Come share your thoughts in the Safe Harbor Facebook group. And find me on:

Instagram: @theresabartolotta
Facebook: Safe Harbor: A Podcast for Parents of Children with Special Needs
Website: https://www.theresabartolotta.com/

Please rate and review - it helps others find us. And thank you for listening! I know your time is precious and I send my gratitude to you.