In this episode, Janet Ropp shares her story of addiction, loss, and recovery. Her insights into the dangers of co-dependence in the parent-child relationship provide needed information for all parents.

The truth is, that it is in the acknowledgement of our own brokenness that we can connect the most deeply with others. In our own brokenness we find the humility, empathy, and understanding we need to truly relate to another’s suffering. And where could that be needed more than in the lives of children from hard places?

They say if you want to climb a mountain, go with someone who’s climbed one before…That saying couldn’t be more true in the world of foster care. Providing for the needs of kids from hard places, while an honorable pursuit, is a challenge for even seasoned veterans like Lauren Bedevian, the guest on this week’s Mamas Well Podcast.

Sometimes messages are crystal clear. “It’s not my job to fix them, it’s my job to love them”. That one showed up just in time for Audra Simpson, founder of The Champion Project, an organization that mentors, and trains mentors for teens in foster care.

Tara Hutton sits down with adoptee, Monika Reynoso who shares her story of foster care, adoption, and running away from the family who loved her. Monika reminds us not to give up. No matter what the circumstances, unconditional love always wins!

Death by suicide is the #1 killer of individuals from 15 – 24 years old and the #10 killer of individuals in America. And when you dive in to the statistics of our population that have experienced trauma, the numbers understandably mount. Twenty two veterans take their lives daily. Adopted children are 4 times more likely to attempt suicide.

An important part of regulating and empowering kids from hard places is providing the right food at the right intervals.

Understanding foster care can be overwhelming and has a steep learning curve. It’s easy to find ourselves stuck in a perpetual state of confusion. While part of being a foster parent is learning to accept the various “unknowns” of our child’s future, we can seek answers to many of our questions from those who have who have walked this journey again and again.

Somewhere between loyalty to their adoptive parents and a natural longing to understand their birth story you’ll find an adoptee with questions. Granted, it’s an awkward situation for everyone involved, but as Sherrie Eldridge explains in her book 20 Things Adopted Kids Wish their Adopted Parents Knew we are “journey mates” to our adopted children.

Very few people have not in some way been impacted by addiction. One study I read said that over 50% of Americans reported substance abuse in their families. Addiction is a scary thing, and if it’s touched your life personally, you know what I mean. As an adult child of an addict, I am well aware of the scars it leaves behind on children.