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The holidays can feel magical... or overwhelming. For parents of children with medical complexity, special needs, or chronic illnesses, the season often comes with invisible burdens and unspoken expectations. In this episode, I talk about the weight of the “shoulds” we place on ourselves: the traditions we think we have to do, the perfect holidays we imagine, and the grief that surfaces when reality doesn’t match our expectations.

Together, we explore how to:

• Acknowledge the grief without letting it steal joy.
• Release the pressure of “should” and embrace imperfection.
• Find moments of magic in the ways your family actually celebrates.
• Carry the invisible weight of 24/7 caregiving with compassion for yourself.

Whether you’re navigating medical equipment, illnesses, missed traditions, or just the stress of a busy holiday season, this episode is for parents who are learning to show up as their best selves — even when it looks different than expected.

How to purchase your signed hardback copy of Soaring Together in time for the holidays:

• Email confessionsofararediseasemama@gmail.com with subject "Holiday Order"
• Please include: how many copies you'd like, who you would like them signed to, mailing address, and the best form of payment for you (I accept Zelle, Paypal, or Venmo)

If you aren't necessarily looking for a signed copy, you can always purchase through amazon or barnesandnoble.com

Shop my brand new merch designs- the perfect holiday gift for the caregiver in your life!

Resources & Links for this episode:

• Buy Soaring Together: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or locally at Bike Trail Books in Loveland and the Cincinnati Zoo Gift Shop
• Learn more about our brave warriors: saveromanandstella.com
• Support our family: GoFundMe
• Follow us!
  • Instagram: @confessionsofararediseasemama
  • TikTok: @rare_mama
  • Facebook: Jillian Arnold & Confessions of a Rare Disease Mama
• Get your FREE Positive Affirmations for the Medical Parent PDF here!
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