Part 2: Life Beyond Illness: Jen and Alex Discuss Resilience, Advocacy, and Normalcy with Guests Jen and Alex
Explicit content warning
11/14/23 • 37 min
1 Listener
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Official Podcast Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/
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Editor: NJz Audio
*******************************************************************************************************************
Please Consider Making a Donation to Give Kids The World - https://www.gktw.org/help/give.php
Immune Deficiency Foundation - https://primaryimmune.org/
Welcome back to another heartening episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads. Today, our hosts G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, along with the inspiring guests Jen and Alex, dive deep into the touching and empowering story of resilience amidst health challenges.
In this episode, we unfold the layers of Jen's world as she champions her son, Alex, through his journey with an immune deficiency. At the tender age of 18, Alex has not only demonstrated extraordinary resilience in the face of adversity but also an awe-inspiring spirit of volunteerism and self-advocacy. His story isn't just about living with a health condition; it's about transcending it.
**Key Insights & Lessons Learned:**
1. **The Power of Advocacy**: Jen shares how crucial it is for a child, especially one with health challenges, to be part of the decision-making process concerning their wellbeing. Alex's ability to self-advocate dramatically changed his medical trajectory, highlighting the transformative impact of empowerment.
2. **The Role of a Supportive Community**: The episode sheds light on the unwavering support Jen and her son received from their surrounding community. It emphasizes that having a strong network can make all the difference when navigating life's hurdles.
3. **Finding Joy Amidst Struggles**: Alex's love for sports, fishing, and pets becomes a beacon of joy and a testament to not letting his condition define his life. His daily routine and future aspirations reflect a determined soul set to live life to the fullest.
4. **Therapy as a Tool for Strength**: Both Jen and Alex embrace therapy, not as a crutch, but as a vessel for maintaining positivity and gratitude. It's a healthy reminder that seeking help is a brave step towards well-being.
5. **The Impact of Charitable Organizations**: This episode highlights the remarkable work of Give Kids The World, illustrating how charities can offer invaluable experiences and support to families facing critical illnesses.
**Please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!**
Your feedback is what fuels our discussions and helps us bring you more content you care about. Please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review. Your input keeps us going and is incredibly appreciated.
**Engage with the Episode:**
Did Jen’s story touch your heart? Have you faced similar challenges or know someone who has? Share your thoughts with us using the hashtags below!
**#EmpowermentInIllness #ResilientYouth #SupportiveCommunity #SelfAdvocacy #ChronicIllnessJourney #HealthChallenges #GiveKidsTheWorld #PodcastLove #STGOIOHListeners #ShitThatGoesOnInOurHeads**
Remember, no matter the trials, there's strength in community, hope in advocacy, and joy in every journey. Tune in for more empowering stories and insightful conversations. We’re here to talk about all that shit that goes on in our heads.
S04E05part 2 - Life Beyond Illness: Jen and Alex Discuss Resilience, Advocacy, and Normalcy with Guests Jen and Alex
***************************************************************************
If You Need Support, Reach Out
If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.
- United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.org
- Canada: Call or Text 988 — 988.ca
- Worldwide: Find a Helpline
- Mental Health Resources and Tools: The Help Hub
- Please subscribe to our newsletter for more insight, giveaways and sponsors - https://sh-t-that-goes-on-in-our-heads.ck.page/f844f11eea
To find out More About our Podcast
Official Podcast Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/
Podcast Merchandise: https://www.customizedgirl.com/s/Sh1tthatgoesoninourheads
To Help Support the Podcast you can donate here: https://donate.stripe.com/8wM4hy4js24y9b26oo
Advertise on this Podcast: https://www.passionfroot.me/goesoninourheads
Editor: NJz Audio
*******************************************************************************************************************
Please Consider Making a Donation to Give Kids The World - https://www.gktw.org/help/give.php
Immune Deficiency Foundation - https://primaryimmune.org/
Welcome back to another heartening episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads. Today, our hosts G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, along with the inspiring guests Jen and Alex, dive deep into the touching and empowering story of resilience amidst health challenges.
In this episode, we unfold the layers of Jen's world as she champions her son, Alex, through his journey with an immune deficiency. At the tender age of 18, Alex has not only demonstrated extraordinary resilience in the face of adversity but also an awe-inspiring spirit of volunteerism and self-advocacy. His story isn't just about living with a health condition; it's about transcending it.
**Key Insights & Lessons Learned:**
1. **The Power of Advocacy**: Jen shares how crucial it is for a child, especially one with health challenges, to be part of the decision-making process concerning their wellbeing. Alex's ability to self-advocate dramatically changed his medical trajectory, highlighting the transformative impact of empowerment.
2. **The Role of a Supportive Community**: The episode sheds light on the unwavering support Jen and her son received from their surrounding community. It emphasizes that having a strong network can make all the difference when navigating life's hurdles.
3. **Finding Joy Amidst Struggles**: Alex's love for sports, fishing, and pets becomes a beacon of joy and a testament to not letting his condition define his life. His daily routine and future aspirations reflect a determined soul set to live life to the fullest.
4. **Therapy as a Tool for Strength**: Both Jen and Alex embrace therapy, not as a crutch, but as a vessel for maintaining positivity and gratitude. It's a healthy reminder that seeking help is a brave step towards well-being.
5. **The Impact of Charitable Organizations**: This episode highlights the remarkable work of Give Kids The World, illustrating how charities can offer invaluable experiences and support to families facing critical illnesses.
**Please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!**
Your feedback is what fuels our discussions and helps us bring you more content you care about. Please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review. Your input keeps us going and is incredibly appreciated.
**Engage with the Episode:**
Did Jen’s story touch your heart? Have you faced similar challenges or know someone who has? Share your thoughts with us using the hashtags below!
**#EmpowermentInIllness #ResilientYouth #SupportiveCommunity #SelfAdvocacy #ChronicIllnessJourney #HealthChallenges #GiveKidsTheWorld #PodcastLove #STGOIOHListeners #ShitThatGoesOnInOurHeads**
Remember, no matter the trials, there's strength in community, hope in advocacy, and joy in every journey. Tune in for more empowering stories and insightful conversations. We’re here to talk about all that shit that goes on in our heads.
S04E05part 2 - Life Beyond Illness: Jen and Alex Discuss Resilience, Advocacy, and Normalcy with Guests Jen and Alex
***************************************************************************
If You Need Support, Reach Out
If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.
- United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.org
- Canada: Call or Text 988 — 988.ca
- Worldwide: Find a Helpline
- Mental Health Resources and Tools: The Help Hub
Previous Episode
Part 1: The Challenges of Immune Deficiency: A Mother’s Perspective on Balancing Health and Happiness with Guest Jen
1 RecommendationsPlease subscribe to our newsletter for more insight, giveaways and sponsors - https://sh-t-that-goes-on-in-our-heads.ck.page/f844f11eea
To find out More About our Podcast
Official Podcast Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/
Podcast Merchandise: https://www.customizedgirl.com/s/Sh1tthatgoesoninourheads
To Help Support the Podcast you can donate here: https://donate.stripe.com/8wM4hy4js24y9b26oo
Advertise on this Podcast: https://www.passionfroot.me/goesoninourheads
Editor: NJz Audio
*******************************************************************************************************************
Please Consider Making a Donation to Give Kids The World - https://www.gktw.org/help/give.php
Immune Deficiency Foundation - https://primaryimmune.org/
In this touching episode, hosts G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, joined by guests Alex and Jen, share emotional stories of coping with chronic illness. Alex discusses their uplifting Make-A-Wish experience at Disney, bringing joy during health challenges. Jen opens up about parenting a child with immune deficiency, highlighting resilience and the need for a strong support network.
Dirty Skittles reflects on the impactful work of Give Kids The World charity, emphasizing the importance of giving back and community support. Key takeaways include:
Community support and shared experiences provide strength.
- Meticulous planning is crucial in managing chronic illness.
- Life involves adapting to evolving health challenges.
- Charities like Make-A-Wish and Give Kids The World transform lives.
- Overcoming personal obstacles fosters gratitude.
Remember, you're not alone in your struggles. Subscribe, rate, and review "Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads" to stay connected and inspired. Your feedback fuels our content.
#MakeAWish #ChronicIllness #ImmuneDeficiency #GiveKidsTheWorld #Healthcare #Resilience #CommunitySupport #Gratitude #Podcast
It's crucial to seek help and engage with understanding communities. Together, we can overcome challenges.
Learn about Give Kids The World Village, offering wish families a magical escape from medical routines. Supported by donors and volunteers, it creates lasting memories for families worldwide.
#GiveKidsTheWorld #Charity #Support #Hope #MagicalMemories #Community #Volunteers
***************************************************************************
If You Need Support, Reach Out
If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.
- United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.org
- Canada: Call or Text 988 — 988.ca
- Worldwide: Find a Helpline
- Mental Health Resources and Tools: The Help Hub
Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles
- Official Website: goesoninourheads.net
- Facebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheads
- Instagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittles
- LinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty Skittles
- Join Our Newsletter: Sign Up Here
- Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shop
Audio Editing by NJz Audio
Next Episode
Part1: Navigating Native Roots: Matt’s Story of Acceptance and Growth with Guest Matt
- Please subscribe to our newsletter for more insight, giveaways and sponsors - https://sh-t-that-goes-on-in-our-heads.ck.page/f844f11eea
To find out More About our Podcast
Official Podcast Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/
Podcast Merchandise: https://www.customizedgirl.com/s/Sh1tthatgoesoninourheads
To Help Support the Podcast you can donate here: https://donate.stripe.com/8wM4hy4js24y9b26oo
Advertise on this Podcast: https://www.passionfroot.me/goesoninourheads
Editor: NJz Audio
*******************************************************************************************************************
Welcome to another profound episode of "Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads," where your favorite hosts, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, dive deep with an incredible guest, Matt, on a journey of self-discovery, familial connections, and the strength that comes from adversity.
In today’s episode, we unfold the layers behind the need to belong, the struggles of identity, and the unexpected twists that life throws at us. Our guest Matt shares his compelling story: from trying to establish his tribal heritage for a college scholarship to the intricate web of relationships with his biological and adoptive families. His tale is one of resilience, as he works through the challenges of ADHD and the pursuit of his true passions beyond societal expectations.
Key Lessons and Insights:
**Identity and Adoption:** Matt's lifelong search for identity and connection with his Native American roots provides a moving narrative on the complexities of being adopted and the power of understanding one’s heritage.
**Family Dynamics:** Discovering a network of siblings and navigating relationships during holidays and birthdays highlight the significance of family, no matter how it's formed.
**Overcoming Adversity:** Matt’s story shows us that personal growth often stems from resistance and strife. He reflects on how pursuing one's truth and learning from hardships can lead to a better-prepared future.
**Mental Health Awareness:** Addressing the guilt and shame associated with ADHD, Matt's openness contributes to breaking down stigmas and encourages listeners to embrace their unique traits.
**Cultural Ties and Personal Growth:** Matt discusses the importance of remaining connected to his tribe and his journey toward embracing his culture, stressing that happiness isn’t the sole path to growth; it's also about overcoming difficulties.
Remember to subscribe, rate, and review "Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads" on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback is invaluable to us and helps keep the conversation going. Share your insights on today's episode in the comments – your input is what keeps us inspired and creating content that resonates with our listeners!
[Don’t forget to hit 'Subscribe' to never miss an episode!]
#IdentitySearch #AdoptionJourney #NativeHeritage #ADHDLife #FamilyConnections #LifeChallenges #MentalHealthMatters #CulturalIdentity #EmbracingDifferences #SelfGrowth #OvercomingObstacles #PodcastCommunity
S04E06part 1 - Navigating Native Roots: Matt’s Story of Acceptance and Growth with Guest Matt
***************************************************************************
If You Need Support, Reach Out
If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.
- United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.org
- Canada: Call or Text 988 — 988.ca
- Worldwide: Find a Helpline
- Mental Health Resources and Tools: The Help Hub
Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles
- Official Website: goesoninourheads.net
- Facebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheads
- Instagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittles
- LinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty Skittles
- Join Our Newsletter: Sign Up Here
- Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shop
A...
Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads - Part 2: Life Beyond Illness: Jen and Alex Discuss Resilience, Advocacy, and Normalcy with Guests Jen and Alex
Transcript
In this episode we got to talk about one of my favorite charities in this entire fucking world called Give Kids a World. What better way to show we care for each other than to donate to a good? G-Rex: cause. G-Rex: It's such a great organization. G-Rex: They really help the families and their G-Rex: kids celebrate. G-Rex: They bring smiles to these wonderful kids' G-Rex: faces. I really do love this charity. Give Kids a World hosts kids with
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