Hydro Heroes Unite

Dare To Be Your Unique Self - Angelica's Hydro Story

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I had the wonderful opportunity to sit down with my daughter, Angelica, and talk about her life with hydrocephalus. I tried to keep the conversation focused on her experiences with surgery after a shunt malfunction and all things hydrocephalus — but she had other plans. Angelica spoke about what matters most to her: standing up for yourself, being your unique self, and respecting people’s differences. She absolutely blew me away with the insight and honesty she shared. I’m honored to share parts of our conversation with the community and with anyone who dares to be their unique self. Resources provided by the Hydrocephalus Association: Hydrocephalus in Infants and Children Shunt Systems Complications of Shunt Systems What to Expect with Shunt Surgery Shunt Revision Surgery: What to Expect During Surgery and Recovery WALK to End Hydrocephalus How to Explain Hydrocephalus to Your Teachers and Friends Bullying and Hydrocephalus Empowering Your Child to Be Their Own Advocate: Navigating Healthcare with Confidence School and Hydrocephalus Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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Brotherhood & Bravery: Josh and Jake's Hydrocephalus Story

Send us Fan Mail Today I share parts of my conversation with twin brothers, Josh and Jake. Josh has hydrocephalus and Jake doesn't. We talk about what can be challenging, what brings them joy and being brave. I also got the opportunity to speak with their mom, Emily, about things she's learned caring for a loved one with hydrocephalus. Resources connected to today's episode: Hydrocephalus Awareness Month Shunt System Complications of Shunt Systems Shunt Revision Surgery: What to Expect During Surgery and Recovery Shunt Malfunction: Frequently Asked Questions School and Hydrocephalus Newly Diagnosed Hydrocephalus Resource Library RAISE Resilience Program Community Networks (Support Groups) HydrocephalusCONNECT (Peer Support Program) WALK to End Hydrocephalus Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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Navigating IEP and 504 Plans with Education Law Attorney Ashley VanCleef

Send us Fan Mail Not sure what an IEP or 504 plan is or if your child needs one? Today on Hydro Heroes Unite education law attorney Ashley VanCleef joins me to break down IEP's and 504 plans for adolescents living with hydrocephalus. We talk about what the plans are, how to start the process, and what to be mindful of along the way. Ashley also shares the legal steps to take when things aren’t working and how to help teens begin advocating for themselves during their own IEP meetings. HA Resource Links: Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show (If we're including again) School and Hydrocephalus IEP Strategies and Dealing with the School System Session with Dr. Zabel and Ashley VanCleef Downloadable Teachers’ Guides Individualized Education Program (IEP): Communication Skills for Parents Learning Disabilities in Children with Hydrocephalus Middle School with Hydrocephalus: Smart Preparation Mastering the High School Transition with Hydrocephalus COPAA National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource Library Hydrocephalus Resources Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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Mental Health and Hydrocephalus with Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae

Send us Fan Mail Pediatric psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae returns to the show after her Season 1 conversation on caregiver resilience and advocacy. Today I'll be sharing parts of our conversation about mental health in adolescents living with hydrocephalus. We explore how anxiety, depression, school stress, and chronic symptoms shape daily life for teens, and how families can support emotional well‑being and self‑advocacy. I'm grateful to have her back to share her knowledge and heart with the community. Start Here: Mental Health & Emotional Well-Being Emotional Well-Being https://www.hydroassoc.org/emotional-well-being/ Understanding Anxiety, Depression, and Mental Health in Hydrocephalus https://www.hydroassoc.org/understanding-anxiety-depression-and-mental-health-in-hydrocephalus/ Overcoming Emotional Struggles and Building Resilience https://www.hydroassoc.org/emotional-struggles-and-resilience/ Mindfulness for Hydrocephalus: Tools to Manage Stress https://www.hydroassoc.org/mindfulness-for-hydrocephalus/ For Teens and Young Adults Resources for Teens and Young Adults https://www.hydroassoc.org/teen-young-adult-hydrocephalus-resources/ Helping Teens Navigate Social Dynamics and Build Confidence https://www.hydroassoc.org/teens-navigate-social-dynamics/ How to Explain Hydrocephalus to Your Teachers and Friends https://www.hydroassoc.org/explaining-hydrocephalus-to-teachers-friends/ Monthly Teen Online Hangout When: 1st Sunday of the month https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/ For Parents and Caregivers Self-Care is Not a Luxury, it's a Responsibility: Advocacy & Resilience with Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae Resources for Parents https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/ Empowering Your Child to Be Their Own Advocate: Navigating Healthcare with Confidence https://www.hydroassoc.org/empowering-your-child/ Our Shared Journey: Parent Support Group When: 2nd Monday, Quarterly https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/ Daily Life, Balance, and Self-Care Wellness & Self-Care https://www.hydroassoc.org/wellness-self-care/ Balancing Life with Hydrocephalus: Key Strategies for Success https://www.hydroassoc.org/balancing-life-with-hydrocephalus/ Understanding Symptoms and Related Health Conditions Complications of Shunt Systems https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/ Headaches and Hydrocephalus https://www.hydroassoc.org/headaches-and-hydrocephalus/ Precocious Puberty and Hydrocephalus: Helpful Insights https://www.hydroassoc.org/precocious-puberty-and-hydrocephalus/ Related Health Conditions https://www.hydroassoc.org/related-health-conditions/ Community and Connection Peer Support Program: HydrocephalusCONNECT https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalusconnect-peer-support/ 19th National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT (July 23–25, Indianapolis, IN) https://hydrocephalusconference.org/ WALK to End Hydrocephalus https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-walk-near-you/ Explore All Resources Hydrocephalus Resources https://www.hydroassoc.org/resources/ Hydrocephalus Resource Library https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-library/ Support Tools for Younger Audiences A Helpful Companion for Learning at Home: Order My Hydro Bear https://www.hydroassoc.org/my-hydro-bear/ Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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School Life, Growing Confidence, and Becoming More Independent: Camille's Hydro Journey

Send us Fan Mail Today I’ll be sharing parts of my conversation with Camille, a 15-year-old high schooler who loves musical theater, singing and writing and was diagnosed with hydrocephalus when she was ten years old. Camille is our first brave adolescent voice this season speaking out in her own words about her experience living with hydrocephalus. HA Resources: Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show Hydrocephalus in Infants and Children Headaches and Hydrocephalus Headaches and Hydrocephalus: Causes and Types Explained Guide to Managing Chronic Pain, Headaches, and Hydrocephalus Adult Ask the Expert Series: Headaches and Hydrocephalus I Can Relate Video Series: Headaches I Can Relate Video Series: Types of Headaches Shunt Systems What to Expect with Hydrocephalus Shunt Surgery High School and Hydrocephalus Hydrocephalus in High School: Coping with Chronic Pain Health Challenges and School I Can Relate Video Series: After Brain Surgery, Do You Hide or Show Off Your Scars? I Can Relate Video Series: Do You Share Your Scars? Body Image and Scars: Living with Hydrocephalus I Can Relate Video Series: What Subjects do you Find Difficult in School? I Can Relate Video Series: Who do you tell that you have Hydrocephalus? I Can Relate Video Series: Who Do You Share Your Condition With? I Can Relate Video Series: How Do You Tell Your School About Your Condition? How to Explain Hydrocephalus to Your Teachers and Friends I Can Relate Video Series: Do You Feel Your Parents Are Overprotective? I Can Relate Video Series: Are you Getting your Driver’s License? Driving and Hydrocephalus Strategies for Coping with Memory Issues and Forgetfulness Community Networks (Support Groups) Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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School, Advocacy, and Supporting Independence: Raising a Teen with Hydrocephalus

Send us Fan Mail I sit down to talk with LaShonda, a mom of teen daughter Camille who was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at ten years old. We discuss their family's experience receiving the diagnosis, school experiences, advocacy and the challenges of supporting independence in a teenager living with a complex medical condition like hydrocephalus. National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show Hydrocephalus in Infants and Children Congenital Hydrocephalus: Dandy-Walker syndrome Headaches and Hydrocephalus Shunt Systems School and Hydrocephalus Health Challenges and School Shunt Revision Surgery: What to Expect During Surgery and Recovery Exercise and Hydrocephalus: Stay Safe and Active Staying Active and Hydrocephalus: Consensus Statements on Physical Activities Teachers' Guide How to Explain Hydrocephalus to Your Teachers and Friends Middle School with Hydrocephalus: Smart Preparation Individualized Education Program (IEP): Communication Skills for Parents Helping Teens Navigate Social Dynamics and Build Confidence High School and Hydrocephalus Complications of a Shunt System Understanding a Shuntogram (Shunt Patency Study) Traveling with Hydrocephalus Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource Library Hydrocephalus Resources Community Networks (Support Groups) WALK to End Hydrocephalus Peer Support, HydrocephalusCONNECT The Hydrocephalus Association's RAISE Resilience Program Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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Understanding the Adolescent Brain & Hydrocephalus with neuropsychologist Dr. Andy Zabel

Send us Fan Mail Season 2 is all about the adolescent stage of hydrocephalus. To kick things off, Dr. Andy Zabel shares his insights as a neuropsychologist on brain development during this stage of life. We sat down to discuss executive functioning, when parents should consider a neuropsych evaluation, the impact of relationships and technology, and much more. For more resources connected to this conversation please see the links below: Practical Tips and Tools for Dealing with Memory and Executive Function Challenges Neuropsychology 101: Understanding Cognitive Function in Hydrocephalus Hydrocephalus and it’s Impact on Cognitive Development and Education Essential Guide: Developmental Milestones in Hydrocephalus Grey is the New White? Not in the brain! Signs and Symptoms of a Shunt Complication Types and causes of hydrocephalus Learning Disabilities in Children with Hydrocephalus Podcast: Helping Children with Hydrocephalus Thrive with Neuropsychologist Dr. Jennifer Queally IEP Strategies and Dealing with the School System Session with Dr. Zabel and Ashley VanCleef School and Hydrocephalus Middle School with Hydrocephalus: Smart Preparation Individualized Education Program (IEP): Communication Skills for Parents Driving and Hydrocephalus Does hydrocephalus have an impact on one’s ability to drive? National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource Library Hydrocephalus Resources HA's Medical Advisory Board Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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Season 2 Trailer: The Adolescent Stage of Hydrocephalus

Send us Fan Mail June 24th we kick off season 2 of Hydro Heroes Unite. This season is all about the adolescent stage of hydrocephalus. We'll discuss brain development, mental health, IEP & 504, and living an active life with medical experts and professionals who dedicate their careers to helping kids and families thrive. And the best part, we'll hear from kids and teens living with hydrocephalus about their unique lived experience. Follow the show on your listening app of choice so you never miss an episode. Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Dancing in the Rain: Scott + Angelica’s Story of Hope + Healing

Send us Fan Mail In this final episode of Season One, I bring it home (literally) and share parts of my conversation with my husband Scott as he opens up about his perspective through Angelica’s hydrocephalus and Dandy-Walker diagnosis. Scott opens up about: The shock of receiving a diagnosis during pregnancy Navigating NICU life, Hurricane Maria and unexpected PICU transfers Finding humor in hard places Advocating as a caregiver and trusting your gut (and your partners) How resilience forms slowly, moment by moment This episode is funny, heartfelt, and deeply hopeful. Sometimes, the most powerful form of resilience is learning to smile, laugh, and eventually dance in the rain. It's a tribute to caregivers, partners, and every family who has ever weathered a storm together. If this season moved you, please share the episode or leave a review to help more hydro families feel seen and supported. Resources: Hydrocephalus Association RAISE Resilience Program: https://www.hydroassoc.org/raise-resilience-program/ Caring for the Caregiver: How to Recognize, Prevent, and Manage Burnout: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/ Support Groups: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/ Mindfulness for Hydrocephalus: Tools to Manage Stress: https://www.hydroassoc.org/mindfulness-for-hydrocephalus/ Resource for Parents: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/ Hydrocephalus CONNECT Peer Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalusconnect-peer-support/ Congenital Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/congenital-hydrocephalus/ Easily Explain Hydrocephalus to a Child with Confidence: https://www.hydroassoc.org/how-to-explain-hydrocephalus-to-a-child/ Complications of a shunt system: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/ Shunt Malfunction: Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/ Your Healthcare Team: https://www.hydroassoc.org/your-healthcare-team-2/ Hydrocephalus Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/ WALK to End Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-walk-near-you/ Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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Self-Care is Not a Luxury, it’s a Responsibility: Advocacy & Resilience with Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae

Send us Fan Mail Today I’ll share parts of my conversation with Dr. Elizabeth McRae, a pediatric psychologist at the University of Alabama, to talk about empowering children with complex medical conditions and supporting the families who care for them. We explore: The difference between pediatric psychologists and neuropsychologists How parents can help kids learn to advocate for themselves The RAISE program, which helps caregivers build resilience and find balance Why self-care and mental health are essential for families raising medically complex kids Resources & Links: Hydrocephalus Association RAISE Resilience Program: https://www.hydroassoc.org/raise-resilience-program/ Caring for the Caregiver: How to Recognize, Prevent, and Manage Burnout: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/ Mindfulness for Hydrocephalus: Tools to Manage Stress: https://www.hydroassoc.org/mindfulness-for-hydrocephalus/ Neuropsychology 101: Understanding Cognitive Function in Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/understanding-cognitive-function-hydrocephalus/ Support Groups: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/ HydrocephalusCONNECT Peer Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalusconnect-peer-support/ Easily Explain Hydrocephalus to a Child with Confidence: https://www.hydroassoc.org/how-to-explain-hydrocephalus-to-a-child/ Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care: https://www.hydroassoc.org/transitioning-from-pediatric-to-adult-care/ Timeline for a Successful Transition to Adult Care: https://www.hydroassoc.org/timeline-for-transitioning-to-adult-care/ Toolkit for Transitioning Medical Care: https://www.hydroassoc.org/toolkit-transitioning-medical-care/ Transitioning to Independence: https://www.hydroassoc.org/transitioning-to-independence/ Prescription Management: Helping Your Teen Master It: https://www.hydroassoc.org/teen-prescription-management/ Individualized Education Program (IEP): https://www.hydroassoc.org/individualized-education-program/ Your Healthcare Team: https://www.hydroassoc.org/your-healthcare-team-2/ Complications of a shunt system: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/ Shunt Malfunction: Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/ Resource for Parents: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/ Hydrocephalus Resources: Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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The Search for the Silver Lining: Melissa & Abagail’s Hydrocephalus Story

Send us Fan Mail In this heartfelt and often funny episode of Hydro Heroes Unite, I sit down with Melissa, a fellow NICU mom and twin mom, whose daughter Abagail lives with hydrocephalus, hemiplegia, cortical visual impairment, and epilepsy. Melissa shares her heart and her humor as she reflects on their family’s journey — from the early NICU days to navigating the complexities of hydrocephalus, including challenges many parents don’t expect. We talk about the power of trusting your instincts as a parent, finding silver linings even in tough times, and the huge difference it makes when doctors show humility, empathy, and true partnership. Melissa has been a long-time advocate for the hydrocephalus community, serving for eight years as co-chair of the National Capital WALK to End Hydrocephalus and continuing to champion disability rights and inclusion. Whether you’re a newly diagnosed family or years into this journey, this conversation is a reminder that you’re not alone — and that there’s strength in community, advocacy, and a little bit of humor along the way. Resources: Hydrocephalus in infants and children: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-in-infants-and-children/ Acquired Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/acquired-hydrocephalus/ Shunt System: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/ Complications of a Shunt System: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/ Shunt Malfunction: Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/ Epilepsy and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/epilepsy-and-hydrocephalus/ Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/understanding-cvi-and-hydrocephalus/ ETV and ETV with CPC: https://www.hydroassoc.org/etv-and-etv-with-cpc/ Get Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/get-support/ WALK to End Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-walk-near-you/ Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH): https://www.hydroassoc.org/normal-pressure-hydrocephalus-2/ Hydrocephalus Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/resources/ Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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Helping Children with Hydrocephalus Thrive with Neuropsychologist Dr. Jennifer Queally

Send us Fan Mail What every parent needs to know about helping kids with hydrocephalus thrive at home and school. Today’s conversation with neuropsychologist Dr. Jennifer Queally explores the impact of hydrocephalus on learning and development, how parents and schools can collaborate, and the challenges children face in self-advocacy. The conversation also dives into practical strategies for supporting independence, preparing for adulthood, and balancing the realities of parenting a child with a medical condition. Whether you’re new to this journey or years along, you’ll find encouragement, insights, and hope in this discussion. Episode 5 Resources: Breaking Myths About Hydrocephalus: What’s Fact and What’s Fiction?: https://www.hydroassoc.org/breaking-myths-about-hydrocephalus/ Types and Causes of Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/types-and-causes/ Grey is the new White? Not in the brain!: https://www.hydroassoc.org/grey-is-the-new-white-not-in-the-brain/ As Your Child Grows: https://www.hydroassoc.org/as-your-child-grows/ Essential Guide: Developmental Milestones in Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/developmental-milestones-in-hydrocephalus/ Shunt Systems: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/ ETV and ETV with CPC: https://www.hydroassoc.org/etv-and-etv-with-cpc/ School and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/school/ High School and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/high-school/College and Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/college/Parent Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/ Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care: https://www.hydroassoc.org/transitioning-from-pediatric-to-adult-care/ Transitioning to Independence: https://www.hydroassoc.org/transitioning-to-independence/ Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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Understanding Hydrocephalus: A Conversation with Pediatric Neurosurgeon Dr. Ramin Eskandari

Send us Fan Mail What is hydrocephalus? How is it most commonly treated? And what should families know about living with this complex neurological condition? In this episode we’ll hear from Dr. Ramin Eskandari, a leading neurosurgeon, about the realities of hydrocephalus care. We discuss: What hydrocephalus is and how it affects patients The most common treatment options, including shunts and ETV Warning signs of shunt malfunctions New research and advances in treatment The debate on activity restrictions for patients with hydrocephalus Developmental, psychological, and psychiatric concerns for patients and caregivers Why improving quality of life matters just as much as quantity of life Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a longtime caregiver, or simply looking to better understand hydrocephalus, this episode offers clarity, guidance, and hope from one of the field’s most experienced voices. HA Resources: Hydrocephalus in Infants and Children: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-in-infants-and-children/ Shunt Systems: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/ Complications of Shunt Systems: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/ Shunt Malfunctions FAQ: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/ Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV): https://www.hydroassoc.org/etv-and-etv-with-cpc/ Emerging Technology: https://www.hydroassoc.org/emerging-technology/ Newly Diagnosed - Next Steps: https://www.hydroassoc.org/whats-next-newly-diagnosed/ Essential Guide: Developmental Milestones in Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/developmental-milestones-in-hydrocephalus/ Individualized Education Program (IEP): https://www.hydroassoc.org/individualized-education-program/ Consensus Statement on Physical Activities for Children with Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/staying-active/#:~:text=Statement on Physical-,Activities,-for Children with Staying Active: https://www.hydroassoc.org/staying-active/ Emotional Well-being: https://www.hydroassoc.org/emotional-well-being/ RAISE Resilience Program: https://www.hydroassoc.org/raise-resilience-program/ Research HA Funds: https://www.hydroassoc.org/research-we-fund/ Research Priorities: https://www.hydroassoc.org/research-priorities/ Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

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Faith, Family, and Fight: Crystal & Natalie's Story of Resilience

Send us Fan Mail Crystal’s story is one of resilience, faith, and hope. After her daughter Natalie was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, additional challenges followed: cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism. In this episode, Crystal opens up about walking through the valley of the shadow of death, leaning on her faith, and finding strength as a parent in the most difficult circumstances. We discuss how she and her family faced the fear of having another child, the importance of hope, and what it means to step back and allow our children to struggle in order to discover what they are truly capable of. Relevant resources: Hydrocephalus in Pregnancy Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-in-pregnancy/ Shunt Systems Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/ What to Expect with Hydrocephalus Shunt Surgery Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-shunt-surgery/ Shunt Malfunction FAQs Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/ Complications of Shunt System Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/ Epilepsy and Hydrocephalus Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/epilepsy-and-hydrocephalus/ Easily Explain Hydrocephalus to a Child with Confidence Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/how-to-explain-hydrocephalus-to-a-child/ Caring for the Caregiver Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/ Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource Library: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-library/ Parent Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/ Get Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/get-support/ WALK to End Hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-walk-near-you/ Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

When the Whole Family’s Admitted: NICU Care & Hope with Dr. Hallie Morris

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Hydro Heroes Unite, we head into the NICU with neonatologist Dr. Hallie Morris, who brings both her medical expertise and deep compassion to the conversation. We explore what it really means when a baby is admitted to the NICU - and how, in many ways, the whole family is admitted too. Dr. Morris shares how hydrocephalus is often diagnosed in newborns, how care teams come together, and why supporting caregivers is just as important as supporting the patient. From managing expectations and grieving what you hoped for, to embracing optimism in the unknown, Dr. Morris gives us a clear and heartfelt look into NICU life and the quiet hope it holds. Whether you’re a parent in the NICU now or someone wanting to better understand this part of the journey, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and community. Relevant Resources: Newly Diagnosed Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/whats-next-newly-diagnosed/ Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource Library: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-library/ Parent Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/ Understanding Hydrocephalus Articles: https://www.hydroassoc.org/understanding-hydrocephalus/ About Hydrocephalus Video: https://www.hydroassoc.org/about-hydrocephalus-video/ Your Healthcare Team Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/your-healthcare-team-2/ Coping with Hospital Stays Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/coping-with-hospital-stays/ Caring for the Caregiver Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/ Stories from Parents: https://www.hydroassoc.org/people/i-am-a-parent/ Get Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/get-support/ Hydrocephalus FAQ: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-frequently-asked-questions/ Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

We Just One-Daying It: Miya + Mila’s Hydrocephalus Story

Send us Fan Mail In this first episode of Hydro Heroes Unite, I sit down with Miya — a mother of three whose youngest daughter Mila lives with hydrocephalus and cerebral palsy. Miya opens up about navigating a four-month NICU stay with newborn twins during the pandemic, while also parenting a toddler at home. We explore what survival mode really looks like, what comes after crisis, and how Miya stays grounded in the long game of raising a child with special medical needs. This conversation is raw, real, and incredibly powerful. Topics we cover include: - NICU life with preemie twins - Balancing home and hospital during COVID - Processing trauma after survival - Self-care, grief, and advocacy - The strength of doing “just one day” at a time Resources: - Hydro Hero Shout-Out Form Resources relevant to today’s conversation curtesy of the Hydrocephalus Association: Shunt Systems Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-systems/ Shunt Malfunction FAQs Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/shunt-malfunctions-frequently-asked-questions/ Complications of Shunt System Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/ Developing an Emergency Plan for Hydrocephalus Complications Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/emergency-plan-for-hydrocephalus-complications/ Ask the Expert Video: Barometric Pressure https://www.hydroassoc.org/ask-the-expert-video-series-barometric-pressure-and-hydrocephalus/ Find a Doctor - HA Physicians' Directory: https://www.hydroassoc.org/physicians-directory/ Traveling and Hydrocephalus Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/traveling-with-hydrocephalus/ Download HydroAssist® Mobile Application - https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydroassist/ Essential Guide: Developmental Milestones in Hydrocephalus Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/developmental-milestones-in-hydrocephalus/ Your Healthcare Team Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/your-healthcare-team-2/ Search HA's Hydrocephalus Resource Library: https://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-library/ Parent Resources: https://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/ Get Support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/get-support/ Caring for the Caregiver Article: https://www.hydroassoc.org/caring-for-the-caregiver/ Follow + Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcasts – and don’t forget to leave a review if this story moved you Join us on social media: Taisha: @taishaycameron HA: @hydroassoc Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc

Introducing Hydro Heroes Unite

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to Hydro Heroes Unite, a new bi-weekly podcast for parents and caregivers raising children with hydrocephalus. I'm your host, Taisha Cameron a fellow hydro hero mama, and in this season, we’re shining a light on the pediatric hydrocephalus journey. Each episode brings you real conversations with other parents and insights from medical professionals who understand the daily challenges and quiet victories of life with hydrocephalus. Our first full episode drops Wednesday, July 23. Subscribe now and join us every other Wednesday as we build a community rooted in stories, support, and solidarity. Created in partnership with the Hydrocephalus Association. Learn more at hydroassoc.org. Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.org Request a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroform Follow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc