Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.

In this blog Emily revisits the topic of identity in the context of becoming a parent. She reflects on her initial struggles with the concept of motherhood and how it has evolved over six months. Emily shares her experiences of the challenges and loneliness of new parenthood, from sleepless nights and self-doubt to the pressures of social expectations and competitive parenting. Despite feeling like an outsider in various parent groups, she finds solace in unexpected friendships and realises that her approach to parenting, which integrates her baby into her usual activities, is valid. Ultimately, Emily concludes that parenthood has allowed her to grow into her role while maintaining her unique identity and interests - and it's almost time to return to PhD studies....

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-identity-revisited-becoming-a-parent/

#DementiaResearch #AcademicMother #Academia #MaternityLeave #Research

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Emily Spencer is a PhD Student at University College London looking at improving how GPs communicate with people with dementia and their family carers about their future care. Emily previous had a 5 year career break to pursue a career as a musician, and has previously undertaken research on improving the care people with dementia receive from their GP practice, as well as end-of-life and palliative care provision in the community. Emily is also a new mum and will be writing about her experiences navigating motherhood and a research career.

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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

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