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  • Mental Health and Hydrocephalus with Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae

    Mental Health and Hydrocephalus with Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae
    2026/08/05
    Send us Fan MailPediatric 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-BeingEmotional Well-Beinghttps://www.hydroassoc.org/emotional-well-being/Understanding Anxiety, Depression, and Mental Health in Hydrocephalushttps://www.hydroassoc.org/understanding-anxiety-depression-and-mental-health-in-hydrocephalus/Overcoming Emotional Struggles and Building Resiliencehttps://www.hydroassoc.org/emotional-struggles-and-resilience/Mindfulness for Hydrocephalus: Tools to Manage Stresshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/mindfulness-for-hydrocephalus/For Teens and Young AdultsResources for Teens and Young Adultshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/teen-young-adult-hydrocephalus-resources/Helping Teens Navigate Social Dynamics and Build Confidencehttps://www.hydroassoc.org/teens-navigate-social-dynamics/How to Explain Hydrocephalus to Your Teachers and Friendshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/explaining-hydrocephalus-to-teachers-friends/Monthly Teen Online HangoutWhen: 1st Sunday of the monthhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/For Parents and CaregiversSelf-Care is Not a Luxury, it's a Responsibility: Advocacy & Resilience with Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae Resources for Parentshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/parent-hydrocephalus-resources/Empowering Your Child to Be Their Own Advocate: Navigating Healthcare with Confidencehttps://www.hydroassoc.org/empowering-your-child/Our Shared Journey: Parent Support GroupWhen: 2nd Monday, Quarterlyhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-community-network/Daily Life, Balance, and Self-CareWellness & Self-Carehttps://www.hydroassoc.org/wellness-self-care/Balancing Life with Hydrocephalus: Key Strategies for Successhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/balancing-life-with-hydrocephalus/Understanding Symptoms and Related Health ConditionsComplications of Shunt Systemshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/complications-of-shunt-systems/Headaches and Hydrocephalushttps://www.hydroassoc.org/headaches-and-hydrocephalus/Precocious Puberty and Hydrocephalus: Helpful Insightshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/precocious-puberty-and-hydrocephalus/Related Health Conditionshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/related-health-conditions/Community and ConnectionPeer Support Program: HydrocephalusCONNECThttps://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalusconnect-peer-support/19th National Conference on Hydrocephalus, HA CONNECT (July 23–25, Indianapolis, IN)https://hydrocephalusconference.org/WALK to End Hydrocephalushttps://www.hydroassoc.org/find-a-walk-near-you/Explore All ResourcesHydrocephalus Resourceshttps://www.hydroassoc.org/resources/Hydrocephalus Resource Libraryhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/hydrocephalus-library/Support Tools for Younger AudiencesA Helpful Companion for Learning at Home: Order My Hydro Bearhttps://www.hydroassoc.org/my-hydro-bear/Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc
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    38 分
  • School Life, Growing Confidence, and Becoming More Independent: Camille's Hydro Journey

    School Life, Growing Confidence, and Becoming More Independent: Camille's Hydro Journey
    2026/07/22
    Send us Fan MailToday 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 showHydrocephalus in Infants and ChildrenHeadaches and HydrocephalusHeadaches and Hydrocephalus: Causes and Types ExplainedGuide to Managing Chronic Pain, Headaches, and HydrocephalusAdult Ask the Expert Series: Headaches and HydrocephalusI Can Relate Video Series: HeadachesI Can Relate Video Series: Types of HeadachesShunt SystemsWhat to Expect with Hydrocephalus Shunt SurgeryHigh School and HydrocephalusHydrocephalus in High School: Coping with Chronic PainHealth Challenges and SchoolI 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 HydrocephalusI 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 FriendsI 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 HydrocephalusStrategies for Coping with Memory Issues and ForgetfulnessCommunity Networks (Support Groups)Learn more about hydrocephalus: https://www.hydroassoc.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc
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    24 分
  • School, Advocacy, and Supporting Independence: Raising a Teen with Hydrocephalus

    School, Advocacy, and Supporting Independence: Raising a Teen with Hydrocephalus
    2026/07/08

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

    Understanding the Adolescent Brain & Hydrocephalus with neuropsychologist Dr. Andy Zabel
    2026/06/24

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    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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    55 分
  • Season 2 Trailer: The Adolescent Stage of Hydrocephalus

    Season 2 Trailer: The Adolescent Stage of Hydrocephalus
    2026/06/23

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

    Dancing in the Rain: Scott + Angelica’s Story of Hope + Healing
    2025/10/29

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    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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    1 時間 11 分
  • Self-Care is Not a Luxury, it’s a Responsibility: Advocacy & Resilience with Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae

    Self-Care is Not a Luxury, it’s a Responsibility: Advocacy & Resilience with Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth McRae
    2025/10/15
    Send us Fan MailToday 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 neuropsychologistsHow parents can help kids learn to advocate for themselvesThe RAISE program, which helps caregivers build resilience and find balanceWhy self-care and mental health are essential for families raising medically complex kidsResources & 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.orgRequest a Hydro Hero shoutout on the show: https://bit.ly/hydroheroformFollow on Instagram: @taishaycameron, @hydroassoc
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    56 分
  • The Search for the Silver Lining: Melissa & Abagail’s Hydrocephalus Story

    The Search for the Silver Lining: Melissa & Abagail’s Hydrocephalus Story
    2025/10/01

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    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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    1 時間