Tiny Little Hearts Podcast
This podcast is about Congenital Heart Disease (CHD), complex medical journeys, parenting through uncertainty and the deep resilience of walking through big life changes.
Hosted by Katelyn McMahan, a mom to three girls whose life was changed in an instant when she found out her youngest daughter had complex cardiac abnormalities. She went searching to hear about kids with a similar diagnosis and wanted to see the life they were living. She didn’t want the curated, polished stories so she could prepare her heart for the good, bad and ugly.
This podcast does just that and highlights conversations from individuals, parents, medical providers, and others navigating the very real and overwhelming world of congenital heart defects and other medical complexities. You’ll hear honest conversations, practical advice and space to feel seen and understood.
Tiny Little Hearts Podcast
17. Parenting Special Kids Network: Turning Experience into Support
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In this episode, Katelyn McMahan speaks with Jeff Thibault, co-founder of Parenting Special Kids Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families raising children with disabilities in Arizona. Jeff shares his personal journey, detailing the challenges he and his wife Debbie faced while raising their daughter Claire, who has an intellectual disability and anxiety disorder. Their experiences led them to create a supportive community for other parents navigating similar challenges, offering resources, guidance, and a space for shared experiences.
Jeff discusses the importance of community and connection among parents, emphasizing the need for support groups where families can share their stories and strategies. He highlights the various services offered by Parenting Special Kids Network, including one-on-one coaching, assistance with navigating state and federal resources, and the development of a comprehensive guidebook for families. The conversation underscores the complexities of raising a child with disabilities and the critical role that support networks play in alleviating the burdens faced by these families.
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This episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.