Single Mamas Seen

Single Parent HOSPITALIZATION

Navigating care for your child with exceptional needs

BY CHRISTINA MCGAIRK

AS A SINGLE PARENT of a special needs child, the thought of being unexpectedly hospitalized can be overwhelming. I learned that firsthand back in January of this year.

While shopping at a local store, and again during a ZOOM meeting, I experienced sharp chest pains, which radiated to my back, the top of my head, and down my left arm. I knew something wasn’t right. I called 911 and was rushed to the nearest emergency room. At the hospital, they discovered my blood pressure was extremely elevated and efforts were made to bring it down. I was nearly discharged after a few hours, but another blood test revealed elevated cardiac enzymes, indicating heart damage. Thank God they checked.

When I was informed that I was being admitted, my mind spiraled. All I could think of was, “What’s going to happen to TiTi?” I reached out to my mom, the school, Tracy, her behavioral therapist, and Lisa, my big sister. Thankfully, the school arranged special transportation for TiTi to my mom’s house. While I was in the hospital, Tracy, Lisa, and TiTi’s caseworker Amanda came together to find ways to best support me so I wouldn’t stress out.

I’m extremely blessed to have such an amazing support system in my life. But not every single parent may not have that village. So what does one do in such situations? My recovery period has given me time to think about being better prepared for an unexpected health crisis.

1. Create a Care Plan in Writing

I already had an emergency contact list of people who I could trust and would step in on short notice. While this list was helpful, I hadn’t written down TiTi’s routine, medications with instructions, dietary restrictions, communication methods, and behavioral guidelines. Fortunately, I was coherent enough to explain TiTi’s needs, but having detailed instructions in writing would have been more helpful, especially if I couldn’t speak.

2. Engage Professional Help

I’m grateful to have my mom’s help with TiTi and around the house, but for those who don’t have family nearby, there are resources available. Dependable home health aides with experience in special needs care can be a great support.

3. Utilize Community Resources

Although they may not provide direct care, community groups can be an invaluable resource, offering emotional support and practical advice on managing care while you’re hospitalized. Your child’s school can also be a tremendous asset. I’m grateful that Titi’s school arranged transportation to my mom’s house and that her teacher checked in on both of us.

4. Use Technology

Video calls and monitoring apps to stay connected remotely with your child and their caregiver can be very helpful, too. Medical alert systems or GPS tracking devices can give care providers crucial information in emergencies. These are tools I’ve been contemplating for a while, but haven’t implemented yet.

5. Preparing Your Child

Fortunately, I was able to communicate while hospitalized. I spoke to TiTi over the phone, reassuring her that Mommy was in the hospital to get better. I chose words she could easily understand, avoiding the details of my diagnosis.

Although unexpected hospitalization as a single parent is a scary thought, if you have a well prepared care plan in place, it can calm nerves and make the process much easier for both your child and those who will care for them while you recover. By planning ahead and using the sources around you, you can build a strong support network to navigate unforeseen occurrences.