The Breaking Barriers Podcast

The Breaking Barriers Podcast

Join us as we explore the triumphs and challenges of raising children with Edwards Syndrome/Trisomy 18 and special needs. From practical tips for everyday life, to magnificent stories and discussions with medical professionals, our podcast offers support and empowerment for parents that are walking the uniquely joyful path.

Episodes

July 9, 2025 48 mins
In this episode of Breaking Barriers, we welcome back Dr. Iverson, pediatric ENT specialist at the University of Kentucky Children’s Hospital, for an in-depth conversation on tracheostomy and airway malacia. Dr. Iverson explains what these conditions mean, how they’re diagnosed, and what families can expect when navigating trach care. Whether your child has a tracheostomy or is being evaluated for airway issues like tracheom...
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In this empowering episode, we sit down with pediatric nutritionist Betsy Hjelmgren to talk all things feeding, nutrition, and growth in children with Edwards Syndrome and complex medical needs. From NG and G-tube support to weaning strategies and blending real food for tube feeds, Betsy brings compassionate, evidence-based guidance for families navigating these unique journeys. Whether you’re new to tube feeding or explorin...
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June 18, 2025 75 mins

Breaking Barriers: Dad Edition-

Hosted by Robert Polacek

In this special Father’s Day episode, host Robert Polacek—proud dad of Mia—leads an honest and powerful conversation with two fellow fathers of children with Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18). Together, these three dads share their unique journeys, the highs and lows of navigating rare parenthood, and the strength it takes to advocate for their incredible kids.   From dia...
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In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Brandi, a courageous mother sharing her journey through one of the most challenging battles a parent can face—her daughter Faith’s diagnosis with Wilms Tumor. Born with Edwards Syndrome, Faith’s early life came with immense challenges, but nothing prepared their family for the fight against childhood cancer. Brandi opens up about the moments of fear, faith, and fierce ...
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May 21, 2025 60 mins

In this thoughtful and informative episode, we sit down with Dr. Raskin, a Pediatric Neurosurgeon, to talk about some of the conditions that affect children and families the most. Dr. Raskin helps us understand epilepsy and when surgery can be a life-changing option, movement disorders-especially in the context of rare conditions like Edwards Syndrome-and hydrocephalus, a condition that can sound scary but is often treatable. Wheth...

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In this special Mother's Day episode, we honor the incredible strength, love and resilience of mothers raising- or who have raised-children with Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18). Join us as we sit down with a group of brave and compassionate moms who share their deeply personal journeys: the challenges, the beauty in the small moments, the advocacy, and the unbreakable bonds formed through love and loss. This heartfelt conversation sh...

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In this episode of The Breaking Barriers Podcast, we're joined by ENT specialist Dr. Iverson to dive into a condition that affects millions but is often misunderstood- sleep apena. From the warning signs to the latest treatment options, Dr. Iverson breaks down the science in a way that's both informative and empowering. 

 

Tune in as we break down the barriers to better sleep, one breath at a time.  

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Trisomy 18 and Cochlear Implants with Crystal Simpson sharing Gunnars Journey

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March 26, 2025 87 mins
Epilepsy impacts roughly 1/3rd of people with Edwards Syndrome. Some have controlled seizures and others do not.   We are excited to share with you the epilepsy journey of one of The ESA founding kiddos Mia through our Breaking Barriers Podcast
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March 19, 2025 35 mins

Our Second episode of our Hearing Loss series. In this episode us three moms within the ESA Board will be discussing our very own hearing loss journey with our children. 

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March 5, 2025 39 mins
Our first episode of our Hearing Loss Series with a T18 Advocate Doctor, Dr Kenneth Iverson, ENT at University of Kentucky Children's.  
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February 19, 2025 32 mins

Learn all about The Edwards Syndrome Association and the vision for The Breaking Barriers Podcast!

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