For nearly four and a half years, Wesson’s life has been full of joy and discovery. But in February 2023, his world—and that of his mother, Rachel—was suddenly toppled when Wesson was diagnosed with generalized epilepsy. “It was overwhelming,” Rachel admits. “At first, I felt lost and unsure of how to help him.” But in a pivotal moment, Rachel found a lifeline: Parent Network.
Referred to by Wesson’s pediatrician, Dr. Mikelle Demmerley, Rachel connected with Parent Network and immediately found a supportive community and valuable resources. “Parent Network gave me access to more resources to help Wesson,” she shares. One of the key decisions supported by Parent Network was enrolling Wesson in the Head Start program at the Children’s League in Springville, an essential step in his development. “My decision to enroll Wesson in Head Start was reinforced through the guidance I received,” Rachel says.
Connecting with Parent Network helped Rachel realize that she was not alone. “I re-realized that Wesson, me, and our family are not alone in this situation. It can be overwhelming at times, but Wesson is a trooper,” she reflects. This sense of community not only eased her stress but also empowered her as a mother. “I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for help. I’m Wesson’s mother, but I’m also my own person,” she notes.
Through the support she received, Rachel began to feel more confident in her role as Wesson’s advocate. “I feel more empowered to support Wesson. I trust my instincts more now when it comes to his care,” she says. This newfound confidence has allowed her to make more informed decisions and ask better questions from doctors and healthcare providers. “I can ask more well-rounded questions of providers, and I feel like I have the knowledge I need to make decisions for Wesson’s care,” she adds.
Perhaps the most important lesson Rachel has learned through her journey with Parent Network is the strength of both herself and her son. “I learned that Wesson and I are stronger than we think,” she says, a sentiment that has carried her through some of the more difficult days.
Despite the challenges they’ve faced, Rachel remains hopeful and determined. “There have certainly been discouraging times along this journey. A person has the right to feel their feelings,” she acknowledges. “But the nurses, medical assistants, and providers at Oishei Children’s Hospital have been so amazing. They are genuinely invested in Wesson’s care.” With the support of Parent Network and the medical professionals around them, she knows that she’s not facing this journey alone.
“I would certainly refer someone to Parent Network because of the well-rounded experience I have had as a parent,” she says. “There are a variety of resources available—not just focused on the patient, but on the family as a whole.” And while she still has difficult days, Rachel feels better equipped to continue her journey with Wesson. “I have the resources to keep going, and that makes all the difference.”
For Rachel and Wesson, the journey is far from over, but with the support of Parent Network, they know they’re stronger than they ever realized.
