Living with Hirschsprung’s: Rachel’s Inspiring Journey
Episode Overview
Rachel shares her personal journey living with Hirschsprung’s disease. Discusses the challenges and decisions around having a stoma. Highlights the importance of community and social media support. Involvement in raising awareness through Noah's Ark charity. Provides insights into parenting children with Hirschsprung’s.
I just wanted a stoma because I thought, I can't live like this anymore, my only option is to have a stoma.
The Hirschsprung’s Hour with Tom Richard is a heartwarming and informative podcast that shines a light on the lives of those affected by Hirschsprung’s disease. In this episode, Tom chats with Rachel, a remarkable woman who not only lives with Hirschsprung’s herself but is also a mother to two boys diagnosed with the same condition.
Rachel shares her journey from her own diagnosis at birth, through the challenges of raising children with Hirschsprung’s, to her eventual decision to have a stoma as an adult. Her candid storytelling offers a mix of humour, resilience, and raw honesty that is both engaging and inspiring. Rachel’s story is particularly compelling as she navigates the complexities of living with Hirschsprung’s while advocating for awareness and support.
She discusses the physical and emotional struggles she faced, including multiple surgeries and the difficult decision to opt for a stoma. Despite these challenges, Rachel's positive outlook and determination to help others shine through. She highlights the importance of community and connection, sharing how social media has been a lifeline for finding others who understand her experiences.
The episode also delves into Rachel's involvement with the Noah's Ark charity and her efforts to raise awareness through social media platforms like Instagram. Her 'Pregnancy Diaries' project on Instagram provides valuable insights for others in similar situations, offering both practical advice and emotional support. Tom's easy-going interview style allows Rachel to share her story in a way that feels like a conversation between friends, making the listener feel part of the dialogue.
The episode is a testament to the strength and resilience of those living with Hirschsprung’s disease and serves as a beacon of hope for anyone facing similar challenges. If you're looking for an uplifting and informative listen, this episode of The Hirschsprung’s Hour is a must. Rachel's story will leave you inspired and more aware of the realities faced by those living with Hirschsprung’s disease.