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Tiny Tots Defying The Odds

Rising Above Grief

Season 1, Ep. 2

What's it like to navigate the complex world of healthcare as a single mom to a preemie?


How does one find hope amidst such overwhelming challenges?


Meet Ashley O'Neill, our guest for today's episode and a powerhouse of a woman who has taken her personal trials and channeled them into an inspiring mission.


Ashley, a single mom and founder of Its a NICU World, shares her journey with her son Kolin, born at 25 weeks and how she has managed to cope with his health challenges and personal family bereavement during his NICU journey.


We hear Ashley's candid discussion on the numerous challenges she faced as a single mom to a 25-weeker. Her unyielding spirit shines through as she provides practical advice for exhausted single moms. Ashley emphasizes the importance of advocacy, resilience and the need to create an emotional space for oneself.


She also talks about her upcoming book, 'It's a NICU World, a Preemie Edition', a testament to her family's journey and a resource she hopes will provide hope, encouragement, and resources to families dealing with a NICU journey.


Ashley's tale is not just about overcoming adversities, it's about creating a community, being a champion for her child, and helping other families navigating similar journeys. She's an embodiment of determination, resilience and love.


Tune in to this heartfelt episode, it offers hope, encouragement, and a sense of community, something we all need, especially when navigating life's toughest challenges. Ashley's story is bound to inspire and uplift. Don't miss it!


You can follow Ashley and Its a NICU world below:


https://itsanicuworld.com/

https://itsanicuworld.com/contact/

https://www.instagram.com/itsanicuworld/



Transcript



Chapters


00:00 Tiny Tots host Danielle Vassell welcomes guest Ashley O'Neill, a strong woman who overcame prematurity when her son Kolin was born, and personal challenges. Ashley launched It's a NICU World to support NICU families and is preparing to release her first book.

03:40 Rapid deterioration, brain bleeds, hydrocephalus, shunt needed.

07:24 Son born and died, husband died - traumatic 4 years.

13:34 Hard childhood, high expectations, disabilities, therapy

16:30 Get it done, promote, show, give hope.

17:54 Supporting families through networking and storytelling.

23:37 Healthcare system challenges for families with limitations.

24:36 You can solve healthcare problems through ventures.

29:57 It's okay to cry, find an outlet.

31:07 Let go, appreciate, be the best mom.

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  • 7. How Can Counseling Support Parents of Preemies in the NICU?

    27:57||Season 1, Ep. 7
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  • 1. Tiny Tots Defying The Odds

    01:07||Season 1, Ep. 1
    Welcome to "Tiny Tots Defying The Odds," the podcast that invites you into the extraordinary world of NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) and neonatal care. Hosted by Danielle Vassell, a living testament to resilience, this podcast is your beacon of hope and inspiration.In this special trailer episode, we offer you a sneak peek into the heartwarming, informative, and emotionally charged journey that "Tiny Tots Defying The Odds" will take you on. Meet Danielle Vassell, your host, and a remarkable individual who, against all odds, has not only survived but thrived after being born weighing just one pound and four ounces. Her personal story is one of courage and determination, and it's just a glimpse of the incredible tales you can expect from this podcast.You'll get a taste of the sound and feel of "Tiny Tots Defying The Odds," a podcast that is as hopeful as it is impactful, as positive as it is calm, and as humorous as it is reassuring. We want you to join us in creating a community of strength, resilience, and unity as we delve into the experiences of NICU parents and medical moms and dads who have faced the challenges of premature birth and neonatal care."Tiny Tots Defying The Odds" is not just a podcast; it's a movement. It's a platform with a mission to raise awareness of premature babies, not only in the UK but across the globe. It's a place where you'll find support, education, and the inspiration to defy the odds, no matter how insurmountable they may seem.Get ready to embark on a journey of empowerment and enlightenment. Stay tuned for the official launch of "Little Might" in December 2023, just in time to brighten your Christmas with stories of strength and triumph.Subscribe now and be part of a community that celebrates the tiny tots defying the odds. Let's make a difference together.