This episode features a conversation with Danielle, a single parent of a child with special needs. They explore the unique challenges faced by single parents in the special needs community, including feelings of isolation, the importance of advocacy, and the emotional and financial strains that come with raising a child with varying needs.
Danielle shares her journey of acceptance, the role of faith in her life, and the significance of community support. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding balance while navigating the complexities of special needs parenting.
Chapters
00:00The Journey of a Single Special Needs Parent
03:32Navigating Diagnosis and Initial Reactions
06:44Adapting Life to New Realities
09:27The Financial Strain of Special Needs Parenting
12:42Finding Community and Support
15:30The Role of Faith in Parenting
18:19Coping with Challenges and Emotional Struggles
21:27Understanding the Impact of Special Needs on Family Dynamics
24:13Finding Purpose and Perspective in the Journey
26:24The Value of Life and Love
27:21Hope and Resilience in Parenting
29:15Dreams and Expectations of Education
31:22Redefining Worth and Value
34:21The Reality of Healing and Acceptance
37:34Self-Care for Special Needs Parents
38:44Learning to Say No
42:15Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
45:06Building Community and Support
48:23Creating Inclusive SpacesAbout the podcast guest Danielle Ross is a certified life coach that wears many hats, from entrepreneur to being a Christian single mom to her daughter that has special needs. She understands firsthand the ups and downs of raising a child with special needs.
Danielle has a passion to love on and encourage others by sharing her faith, experiences, and by turning her pain into a purpose. She is the founder of Hope’s Legacy Grief Support, a virtual life coaching business that helps people to process grief during the most difficult seasons in their lives.
Danielle enjoys helping and supporting people on their journey of healing, especially during times of loss. She wants to help people feel less alone and remind people of God's love for them and provision after painful and life changing events.
Reach out to Danielle at movforwardcs@gmail.com
About the podcast host
Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoonis a speaker, coach, andspecial needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported.
Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, athttps://books2read.com/lightingthepath
Find Marcia (and many resources to support your special needs parenting journey) on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney
Join the Special Needs Parent Space (a free community for parents like us) athttps://www.facebook.com/share/jG6JEHafR3TWTyqG