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What happens when your soccer-obsessed child suddenly can't play? In this powerful conversation about "Sports Parent PTSD," Cari shares the raw, emotional journey of her son's devastating soccer injury that sidelined him for ten months.

From the moment she saw him go down on the field last May to his triumphant return in February, Cari reveals the unexpected emotional rollercoaster she experienced as a parent. Beyond the doctor appointments, surgeries, and physical therapy sessions lies a deeper struggle rarely discussed: the psychological toll on parents watching their children lose a piece of their identity.

"I placed a lot of blame on myself," Cari admits, describing nights spent crying herself to sleep while putting on a brave face during the day. Her candid reflection on the anxiety that gripped her when her son finally returned to play resonates with any parent who's held their breath watching their child step back into a challenging situation after injury.

Katie offers perspective from both coaching and parent viewpoints, examining how injuries impact not just the individual player but entire teams, communities, and families. Together, they explore coping mechanisms that helped them through the darkest moments – from journaling and gratitude practices to finding strength in vulnerability by sharing experiences.

As Carri prepares to face her next challenge – returning to the very tournament where her son's injury occurred – she reminds listeners that they're not alone in these struggles. This conversation opens a necessary dialogue about supporting not just injured athletes but the parents who suffer alongside them.

Have you experienced similar feelings watching your child return to sports after injury? Share your story with us at info@soccermomsunfiltered.com or message us on Instagram @soccermomsunfiltered.