“A New Parent’s Journey” Transcript
Megan: They say when you are raising a child that it takes a village. Right from the beginning that felt very true. As we were taking care of Lucy, they were taking care of us.
Megan: When you first bring home a baby, you’re so tired and overwhelmed. Your life has changed drastically. As much as you can prepare for it, you just can’t.
Megan: The CHOC Primary Care Network and CHOC’s 24/7 Nurse Advice Line have been really helpful on this journey.
Dr. Angela Allevato: I believe the roll of a pediatrician is that of a healer, a counselor and a teacher.
Megan: Dr. Allevato and her whole staff became part of our village. I feel so reassured and safe being in the CHOC family.
Dr. Angela Allevato: Pediatrics, in general, is like a medical home for a patient and their family. When we see a new baby, it’s like they are joining our family.
Megan: Having a baby in this digital age is, on one hand, really great. There’s so many resources at your fingertips. On the other hand, there’s so many resources at your fingertips. I didn’t know who to believe.
Megan Sanford: 844-GET-CHOC is a completely free nurse advice line that is hosted by CHOC and staffed by nurses and care manager assistants who have all dedicated their careers to helping children.
Megan: I just feel like there’s a wealth of knowledge at my fingertips with CHOC that I don’t have to get lost in all the noise. I can just go straight to them.
Megan Sanford: Knowing that there is somebody there 24/7, overnight, on a holiday, and when you’re by yourself. You know you have the support of CHOC.
Megan: I know that I am still learning. There’s so much to learn. I’m still brand new at this. I know that I’ve set up the steps to become the best possible parent for Lucy.
Dr. Angela Allevato: We do more than just diagnose diseases. We’re there for patients during difficult times and joyful times.We provide reassurance and guidance throughout a child’s life.
Megan: Honestly, going to the pediatrician and getting out of the house made us feel more human. We were seeing people who cared for us and Lucy. It really felt like a lifeline. I felt like, “Okay, if I can just get to Friday I’ll know that Lucy’s okay and therefore I’m okay.”
Megan: So I just really am thankful to have found people who care for my baby so well.
Megan: I just feel like I have everything I need because of CHOC.
