In this raw and heartfelt podcast, a mother shares her experience balancing parenting with being a special needs caregiver to her 14-year-old son who was diagnosed with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy.
Hosted by Dr. Christine Astarita with Breakthrough Intensive Physical Therapy, here is a peek into the life of Gemma and Patrick.
Podcast Episode 7: Balancing Parenting With Being A Caregiver And The Importance Of Seeking Support
Last year, we spoke to Gemma Cardona, a wonderful woman and mother from the UK, who through her son Patrick has spoken out on making the world more inclusive and understanding of those with disabilities. Her 14-year-old son, Patrick (Paddy), is diagnosed with quad CP but that doesn’t stop him or Gemma from making a difference through Paddy’s Purpose.
In this podcast, Gemma discusses her role as a mother and a caregiver, how the lines are blurred between the two and how she found a healthy way to find the balance. She talks about the positive impact that seeing Paddy more as a child and less like a patient has had on their relationship – “sometimes you need a few minutes to just be mum.”
She also discusses her own struggles with physical and mental health and how she makes sure to take the time to take care of herself. “We’re so connected with stuff about our children. We’re in so many groups on Facebook, all about our children. And we don’t realize that there is all of that stuff for us as well… We’re so used to doing all the research when it comes to our kids but we just don’t give ourselves the same level of time. I’ve learned the hard way that if we don’t do that, it doesn’t work.”
Gemma also tells us an amazing story about meeting another special needs mom. “…She gave me that vital piece of information when Paddy was still small, so I’ve always carried that with me…It just made me change how I behave in front of him…It’s one of the most important stories that I try to share.”
Gemma shares a lot about Paddy’s Purpose and how she is using her platform to educate children on the importance of understanding and accepting disabilities.
We dove into so many topics – all of which are not typically spoken about. You can find Gemma on social media @ Paddy’s Purpose for more information!
If you want to listen to more episodes or find some more helpful resources and information, visit our website: www.breakthroughptli.com.
► ►Listen Now to Gemma’s Story ◄◄
About Dr. Christine Astarita, PT, DPT
Dr. Christine is the founder of Breakthrough Intensive PT; Long Island’s intensive therapy center focused around the whole family. Throughout her career, Christine has worked with children from the NICU all the way into adulthood and knew there had to be a better way to serve them. So, she’s taken her passion and direction in life to serve the special needs community by offering intensive therapy programs, group fitness programs, parent support, and educational programs, as well as sibling support programs to enhance and improve the quality of their lives.
When not working at Breakthrough PT, reading, or researching ways to improve the business, you can find her out with her family hiking the trails or preparing for her next half or full marathon! Christine loves running and believes it to be her method of meditation all while keeping her in shape to eat all of the ice cream and french fries she wants! She believes her true purpose and calling is to help this underserved community in a BIG way.
Thank You!
We want to wrap up by extending our gratitude to thank you for stopping by today!
Are you a parent who balances being a special needs caregiver?
Let us know in the comments below. ♥
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