Introduction
Becoming the parent of a child with disabilities can be daunting and overwhelming, rewarding and incredible.
In 2005, my eldest son was born with a bump. He didn’t breathe on delivery and was diagnosed ten weeks later with having severe brain damage. From then, my husband and I hurtled down an unmarked road of loving a child with complex disabilities and life-limiting epilepsy. Today I use my memories, experiences and skills to support families like mine and inform the practitioners who care for us.
Faith
My faith shapes my world view, how I live and how I love. I now believe in the blessing of brokenness.
Training
As a nurse and parent, I am well placed to develop and deliver training for practitioners who care for families of children with complex disabilities.
Speaking Events
I’ve always been a talker and strongly believe in the power of story-telling. Being real and honest about the joys and challenges for parenting a child with complex disabilities can have a profound impact.
Book
My book, The Skies I’m Under, is a raw and honest account of becoming the parent of a child with complex disabilities.
Writing
I discovered a love for writing when I realised it was just like talking but without the interruptions.
Calendar
Find out when my latest speaking and training events are coming up.
Latest from the Blog
I’m so not inspirational, but I know people who are.
In our family, we have sorry rules. Sounds up tight, I know, but wanted [...]
7 Ways to get the Best out of your Professional
Getting the best out of your professional is the title of a workshop [...]
“Never feed your son again.”
“Our recommendation is that you never feed your son orally again.” These words [...]
Can I really make a difference?
Some lovely people (probably my parents) have nominated me for the category of [...]
Why my son won’t be accepting his 100% attendance award
Four reasons my son won't accept his 100% Attendance [...]
5 little things that make a Big Difference
Little things can make a difference. When I worked as a [...]
Top 6 Disability Hacks
Life changes when you become a mum, even more so [...]
Top 11 Advantages to Parenting a Disabled Child
Parenting a disabled child gets a bad press, so here is my Top 11 advantages to parenting a disabled child but there are many more.
Testimonials
“Rachel produces fantastic resources, all fully referenced and evidence based yet accessible and powerful”
“Best session I have ever encountered at Uni”
“So relevant and helpful. Probably the most insightful training I have been on.”