Ashley Schafluetzel is a kindergarten teacher and mom of two who lives outside St. Louis, Missouri. Her daughter, Ella, loves big hair bows and Frozen 2, is a great big sister, and is thriving in first grade. However, Ella’s start in life was anything but typical, and through a high-risk pregnancy, premature birth, and extended NICU stay with multiple complications, Ashley and her husband faced challenges that they never expected would come with parenthood.
In this special bonus episode of The Mom Hour, Ashley shares an honest look back at her pregnancy, birth, NICU days, and early motherhood experience. From how she learned to advocate for herself and her baby, to growing into her role as a mom of a child with special needs, Ashley’s story is part of an important part conversation that we hope you’ll enjoy.
About Our Sponsor
Each year, March of Dimes partners with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention to create awareness about things women can do to help prevent birth defects and increase their chances of having a healthy, full-term pregnancy and a healthy baby. Through research, programs, education, and advocacy March of Dimes is leading the fight to ensure that every baby has the best possible start.
The theme for Birth Defects Prevention Month 2020 is Best for You, Best for Baby. Follow #Best4YouBest4Baby stories on social media, and for more information, visit marchofdimes.org/themomhour.
Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have):
- March of Dimes
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation (CPARF)
- Books that Ashley personally found helpful include:
Featured image credit: Anna Hollister | Schafluetzel family photos credit: Simply Elizabeth Photography
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