We're thrilled to spotlight Gabie Benson, owner and founder of Sprout Fundraising, our insightful fundraising and leadership coach, who has been pivotal in elevating our nonprofit endeavors with her expert guidance and empathetic approach.

Have you considered starting a nonprofit in honor of your journey with your child's medical challenges? If so, you aren't alone and that's why we invited Gabie to speak to you today. With over 20 years of nonprofit fundraising experience, she shares a passion for empowering nonprofit founders, especially those who feel like underdogs. Gabie and Ashlyn share personal stories, from the challenges faced with our children's medical needs to the societal complexities of parenting, resonate deeply with the struggles of many parents. Through empathy and shared experiences, we celebrate the resilience and grace required to thrive in these roles, all while exploring the unexpected joys of helping others achieve their missions.

For those contemplating launching a nonprofit, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge to guide you through the essential steps. From researching community needs and establishing a strong board to crafting a clear mission and vision, we lay out the groundwork for creating a successful organization. We delve into the emotional complexities of fundraising, emphasizing the importance of community support and resilience. With insights from Gabie Benson, we aim to inspire and equip you with the tools needed to embark on your own nonprofit journey, fostering a network of support and hope along the way.

Connect with Gabie:
https://www.sproutfundraising.com
LinkedIn
Calendly
Instagram

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at: CharlottesHopeFoundation.org
Email: Contact@CharlottesHopeFoundation.org
Facebook: Charlotte's Hope Foundation
Instagram: CharlottesHopeFoundationInc
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon

"What did I do wrong?"
"How did I cause this?"
"Is this my fault?"

Some form of this question is the first thing to cross the mind of almost every single parent at what we refer to as "the moment of impact" - the moment a parent learns their child is not ok and requires medical intervention.

Take a trip back with us to our original episode of Empowered by Hope as we share our emotional journeys through parenting children with complex medical needs, focusing on the ever-present shadow of guilt. Ashlyn opens up about the life-altering decision to venture into medical tourism, seeking a transformative surgery for her daughter Emery in London. Meanwhile, Emily reflects on her tireless efforts to provide the best care for her daughter Charlotte, navigating a labyrinth of specialists and daily challenges. Together, we explore the heartache and resilience that come with these struggles, offering our insights and support to those walking a similar path.

Unravel the heavy emotions that accompany a challenging diagnosis as we dissect the guilt that often haunts parents of children with medical complexities, no matter the diagnosis or severity. Through candid discussions, we emphasize that such feelings are not a reflection of parental inadequacy but rather a natural part of the journey. We tackle the difficult reality of balancing heart-wrenching medical decisions with the love for our children, and how guilt can blur the truth of our devotion. By sharing our personal experiences, we aim to provide clarity and reduce self-judgment, allowing parents to navigate their path with more confidence and self-compassion.

Community and connection are lifelines in these challenging times, and we emphasize their importance by encouraging open communication and shared stories. We discuss practical strategies for managing guilt and finding hope, such as writing letters to oneself or seeking solace in spiritual beliefs. Our goal is to create a welcoming space where listeners feel seen and understood, reinforcing that no one is alone in their journey. We invite you to connect with us, share your stories, and spread the support to others who might benefit from these heartfelt conversations.

And please, remember, your child's diagnosis is NOT your fault.

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at: CharlottesHopeFoundation.org
Email: Contact@CharlottesHopeFoundation.org
Facebook: Charlotte's Hope Foundation
Instagram: CharlottesHopeFoundationInc
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon

Finding it hard to imagine your child transforming their fear of medical appointments into proud moments of bravery? This episode of Empowered by Hope illuminates that journey through the inspiring story of Charlotte, Emily’s daughter, who recently earned a bravery award for her courage.

Navigating the complexities of medical procedures with your child is never easy, but preparation and self-care can make a world of difference. Ashlyn opens up about her own experiences with Emery, sharing pivotal moments that taught her the importance of being a calming presence. From the significance of clear communication with healthcare providers to the simple yet profound act of staying in the room during traumatic procedures, discover strategies that can help alleviate both your child's and your own anxiety during these challenging times.

Empowering children in medical settings is crucial, and proactive steps such as creating a "poke plan" can turn anxiety into confidence. Learn how involving child life specialists and practicing at home can transform a child’s experience, as illustrated by Ashlyn who made ultrasounds enjoyable for Emery, by incorporating her love for animals and superheroes. Celebrate the small victories and the strength that comes from supportive connections, and remember, you are not alone on this journey. Subscribe for more insights and share your own stories to help sustain this empowering community.

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at: CharlottesHopeFoundation.org
Email: Contact@CharlottesHopeFoundation.org
Facebook: Charlotte's Hope Foundation
Instagram: CharlottesHopeFoundationInc
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon