Raising Joy Cook Children's

In this episode of Raising Joy, we delve into a topic close to many parents' hearts: the mental health of children with complex medical needs. Our expert guests are Carla Morton, Ph.D., and Marsha Gabriel, Ph.D., neuropsychologists from Cook Children's.
 
We'll explore:
·         What is neuropsychology and how does it relate to children's health?
·         Common complex medical conditions and associated mental health challenges.
·         Warning signs parents should watch for in their children.
·         Practical strategies parents can use to support their children's mental well-being at home.
·         The range of emotions parents of children with complex medical needs may experience.
·         Dr. Morton's personal experience as a parent of a child with special needs.
·         Things parents might not realize about raising a child with complex medical needs.

This episode of Raising Joy dives into the unseen but crucial work of building a strong and resilient community for children and families. Hosts Wini King and Dr. Kristen Pyrc welcome Breanna Anderson and Jammie Josephson, managers of the ACE's Team at the Center for Community Health at Cook Children's.
The conversation explores:
·         Understanding ACES: They'll break down what Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) are and their impact on children's health.
·         The ACE's Team in Action: Learn about the team's mission and the programs they offer to support parents and families.
·         Building Hope: Breanna and Jammie will share a success story that highlights the positive impact of their work.
·         The Power of Community Outreach: Discover why taking these resources directly into communities is essential for building resilience.

This episode of Raising Joy saddles up for an inspiring conversation about mental health with Hallie Sheade, Ph.D., LPC-S, RPT-S, Executive Director of S.T.E.P.S. With Horses. Dr. Sheade, a licensed professional counselor who incorporates horses into her therapy sessions, will reveal the surprising power of these majestic creatures to help people and kids open up, learn, and heal in ways traditional talk therapy sometimes can't. Join us as we explore the unique benefits of equine-assisted services and discover how horses can become powerful partners on the path to mental well-being.
Learn more here: https://www.stepswithhorses.org/

This episode of Raising Joy tackles a tough but crucial topic: child sex trafficking. Our guest, Stacey Henley, a child abuse expert from Cook Children's C.A.R.E. team, offers a powerful perspective. Stacey sheds light on the realities of child victimization, but also empowers parents with knowledge. 
Join us for this important conversation and learn how we can all work together to create a safer environment for our children.

What kind of impact can a single pair of shoes have on a child’s life? According to Sam Sayed, a medical student at the TCU Burnett School of Medicine, the impact can be life-altering. At least this was the case for his own life. 
 On this special episode of Raising Joy, Sam talks to us about his nonprofit, Dayna's Footprints, which he started with his brother Sharif Sayed. Their mission is, “To combat learning inequity by providing students shoes to wear proudly, subsequently increasing students’ self-esteem and enthusiasm for attending school.”
Sam tells shares his story of growing up underprivileged in Arlington, Texas, and how a pair of shoes gifted by his sister Dayna changed the trajectory of the brothers’ lives.  
 
Watch their TedX talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/sam_sharif_sayed_a_day_in_their_shoes/transcript
 
ABC News Story:
https://abcnews.go.com/US/texas-medical-student-back-community-free-shoes-nonprofit/story?id=105805418

World Down Syndrome Day is March 21, 2024. Join us for an uplifting conversation with Alexis Pechek and Ileana Hamilton, two parents whose lives have been enriched by their children with Down syndrome. They'll share their honest journeys - from navigating the initial diagnosis to the beautiful ways their families have grown. This episode is a beacon of hope for any parent facing a new Down syndrome diagnosis, reminding us of the profound joy these incredible children bring to the world.