In this episode, we have the privilege of hosting Charlie Beswick, a remarkable mother, entrepreneur, author, and advocate. Charlie is the driving force behind several influential businesses and the author of the Amazon bestseller, Our Altered Life, which narrates her journey as a mother to twin sons, including Harry, who was born with complex disabilities. Charlie's mission centres on providing essential support, guidance, and resources to parents and professionals working with individuals with both visible and invisible disabilities, cultivating a supportive and understanding community.

Join us as we delve into Charlie's inspiring story, exploring the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with unique needs, the development of her impactful projects, and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way.

Key Timestamps:

00:00:01 - Introduction

00:00:25 - Guest Introduction: Charlie Beswick

00:01:41 - The Birth and Challenges

00:03:10 - Early Struggles and Guilt

00:05:54 - Navigating Parenthood with Twins

00:07:16 - Family and Community Support

00:09:42 - Addressing Grief and Anger

00:12:12 - Lack of Postnatal Support

00:15:54 - Dealing with Facial Differences

00:18:38 - Oliver’s Experience and Support

00:21:41 - Handling Harry’s Care and Sensory Needs

00:24:05 - Promoting Self-Care and Resilience

Key Messages:

Embrace and Navigate Challenges with Positivity: Charlie shares her journey of raising twins, one of whom, Harry, has Goldenhar syndrome and autism. She emphasises the importance of facing challenges head-on and finding positivity in difficult situations. Her story highlights resilience, the significance of mental strength, and the need for a positive outlook when dealing with unexpected life events.

Importance of Community and Support Systems: Charlie discusses the vital role of family, friends, and community in her journey. She underscores how having a supportive network can make a significant difference in coping with the demands of raising a child with special needs.

Self-Care and Mental Health Awareness: Charlie talks about the necessity of self-care and recognizing one's mental health needs, especially for parents and caregivers. She stresses that acknowledging and addressing one's emotions, including feelings of guilt, grief, and anger, is crucial.

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