Beyond the Defects: Amber’s Journey

Episode 19: Practical Help and Emotional Healing – The Power of Support Groups

In Episode 19 of Beyond The Defects, Amber Garrelts, host and President of the Amber Garrelts Foundation, explores the dual role that support groups play in offering both practical help and emotional healing for individuals and families affected by birth defects and disabilities. Amber reflects on the success of the Foundation's inaugural Support Group meeting and dives deep into how these gatherings provide essential coping strategies, access to medical resources, and emotional resilience through shared experiences. Whether you’re seeking practical advice on navigating medical care or looking for emotional support from those who understand your journey, this episode sheds light on the transformative power of community.
Amber also shares tips for navigating healthcare systems, building emotional strength, and practical tools for daily living. Tune in for a heartwarming discussion about the importance of connection, empowerment through knowledge, and the incredible healing that comes from shared stories.
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Growing Up with a Parent with Birth Defects: Cydney’s Perspective on Family, Resilience, and Love – Beyond the Defects Episode 18

In this heartfelt and candid episode of Beyond the Defects, host Amber Garrelts sits down with her daughter, Cydney, for an insightful conversation about what it’s like growing up with a parent living with birth defects. Cydney shares her unique perspective on the challenges, resilience, and love that shaped her childhood, offering listeners a rare look at family life from the viewpoint of a child deeply connected to the world of birth defects and disabilities.
Throughout the episode, Amber and Cydney discuss the lessons learned, the impact on family dynamics, and how navigating this journey together has created a bond filled with strength and compassion. Don’t miss this moving discussion filled with humor, honesty, and a lot of heart.
Tune in to Episode 18, and be sure to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Plus, learn how you can support the Amber Garrelts Foundation through membership, donations, and by checking out our awesome T-shirt sponsors! Episode 19 will continue this conversation, so make sure to come back for more.

Compassionate Care for Birth Defects and Disabilities: A Holistic Approach for Home Health Agencies, Insurance Companies, and Healthcare Providers

In Episode 17 of Beyond the Defects, Amber Garrelts explores the vital role of compassionate care for individuals living with birth defects and disabilities. Drawing from real-life stories and expert insights, Amber highlights how Home Health Agencies, Insurance Companies, and Healthcare Practitioners can provide more than just medical treatment—they can deliver care rooted in empathy, understanding, and love.
This episode takes a deep dive into how each part of the healthcare system can work together to improve patient experiences and outcomes, from proactive support in insurance claims to active listening from healthcare providers. Amber also shares practical steps for families and caregivers to advocate for compassionate care in their healthcare journey.
Plus, exciting news: the Group Meeting Inaugural will be held on September 27, and all listeners are invited to join! This event is a great opportunity to connect with others, share experiences, and build a stronger community. Don’t miss out!
Tune in to this heartfelt discussion and discover how compassionate care can truly transform lives.

Beyond The Defects Episode 16: Bethany’s Continued Journey—Resilience, Challenges, and Overcoming Stigma

In Episode 16 of Beyond The Defects: Amber's Journey, Amber Garrelts concludes her heartfelt conversation with longtime friend Bethany. Following up on their powerful discussion in Episode 15, this episode dives deeper into Bethany’s experiences growing up with a disability, the varying challenges she faced, and how she’s continually overcome stigma and discrimination. Amber and Bethany reflect on the importance of resilience and the strength found in community.
Amber also takes a moment to thank the generous sponsors who support the Amber Garrelts Foundation—Antonio Diaz of Fast Shirts Printing for his ongoing T-shirt donations and Crafty Beotch for the creative designs that bring their message to life.
Join us as we wrap up this inspiring conversation and explore what it truly means to rise above adversity. Don’t miss out on this compelling episode, and stay tuned for more powerful stories to come.

Beyond The Defects Episode 15: Resilience and Overcoming Stigma with Bethany's Inspiring Journey

In Episode 15 of Beyond The Defects, Amber Garrelts sits down with her lifelong friend Bethany to discuss the challenges of growing up with a disability and the strength it takes to overcome stigma. This powerful conversation is the first of a two-part series that delves deep into resilience, support, and the importance of community. Stay tuned for part two in Episode 16. Special thanks to our supporters, including FastShirts Printing and Crafty        B-eotch, for their contributions.

Where Hope Finds a Home: The Origin of the Amber Garrelts Foundation

In this heartfelt episode of Beyond The Defects: Amber’s Journey, Amber Garrelts is joined by a special guest, Young Akpasubi, the Executive Director and Secretary of the Amber Garrelts Foundation. Together, they take listeners back to the very beginning, sharing the inspiring story of how the foundation and podcast were born. Discover how Amber’s resilience, compassion, and a voice full of kindness sparked a vision that grew into a powerful movement. Learn about the challenges they faced, the community they built, and the mission that continues to drive them forward. This episode is a celebration of hope, love, and the strength found in coming together to support one another. Join us as we explore the roots of the foundation and the journey that brought us here.

Breaking Barriers: Tara’s Journey to Professional Success Despite Disability Challenges

In Episode 13  Amber continues her inspiring conversation with Tara, a successful professional and highly sought-after cosmetologist whose clients span from Idaho to Wyoming. Tara’s story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and passion, proving that a disability or birth defect doesn’t define your potential.
Amber and Tara discuss the challenges Tara has faced and overcome, offering encouragement to listeners who may be navigating similar obstacles. Tune in to hear how Tara’s journey can inspire you to pursue your dreams, no matter the hurdles. Plus, learn how the Amber Garrelts Foundation is here to support you every step of the way.
Join us in celebrating Tara’s success and find out how you can get involved by visiting www.ambergarreltsfoundation.com.

Tara’s Triumph: Overcoming Medical and Insurance Hurdles in the Face of Disability PT1

In this powerful episode of the Amber Garrelts Foundation Podcast, host Amber Garrelts sits down with her dear friend Tara to discuss the real-life challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, including the frustrating battles with insurance companies. Tara shares her inspiring story of resilience, highlighting the importance of advocacy and support in the disability community. Amber reassures listeners that they are not alone and emphasizes the foundation’s commitment to standing by those in need. Tune in to hear how you can get involved—whether by sharing your story, volunteering, or donating to the cause. Visit www.ambergarreltsfoundation.com to learn more about how you can make a difference.
#DisabilityAdvocacy #InsuranceChallenges #AmberGarreltsFoundation #DisabilitySupport #OvercomingObstacles #DisabilityRights #Volunteering #Donating #SupportNetwork #InspiringStories

Episode 11: Breaking the Stigma: Love, Acceptance, and Overcoming Challenges

eyond The Defects: Amber's Journey is a heartfelt podcast dedicated to breaking down the stigmas surrounding birth defects and disabilities. Hosted by Amber Garrelts, a passionate advocate and survivor, each episode dives deep into the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by these conditions. In Episode 11, "Breaking the Stigma: Love, Acceptance, and Overcoming Challenges," Amber discusses the harmful impact of societal stigma and how love, understanding, and community support can empower those with disabilities. She also addresses the sensitive topic of families feeling overwhelmed to the point of considering adoption, offering compassionate alternatives and resources. Don't miss Amber's personal story of triumph and her powerful call to action for greater inclusivity. Subscribe now to stay informed and inspired, and learn how you can make a difference. Connect with us at info@ambergaretsfoundation.com—we care and you can.

Continuing the Journey: Overcoming Stigma and Embracing Compassion | Beyond The Defects Podcast Episode 10

In the heartfelt continuation of Beyond The Defects: Amber's Journey Episode 10, Amber reunites with her dear friend Suzie to delve deeper into their shared experiences of growing up with birth defects. This episode is a powerful testament to resilience, as Amber and Suzie discuss the challenges of stigma and the pressing need for greater compassion and understanding within our communities.
Join us as we explore the profound wisdom born from adversity and the importance of fostering inclusivity for all. Amber also shares an urgent appeal to help make the September group meeting a reality—an event that could bring much-needed support and connection to those who need it most. With your help, we can ensure that this gathering goes ahead as planned. Every donation counts, and your generosity could make a world of difference.
Tune in for an episode filled with emotional depth, inspiring stories, and a strong call to action that echoes the spirit of unity and empathy. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!
#BirthDefects, #Stigma, #Resilience, #Compassion, #Inclusivity, #BeyondTheDefects, #AmbersJourney, #SeptemberEvent, #CommunitySupport, #PowerfulStories