A Holistic Approach To Pediatric Feeding + Speech
MY STORY
​​​In 2020 I entered motherhood, a season that changed me in ways I never anticipated. I found myself facing difficulties I didn't expect, especially in the realm of infant feeding. The challenges felt isolating, motherhood is beautiful but also difficult. So many things to learn and manage all while trying to heal from postpartum on very (very) little sleep. Motherhood really teaches you strengths you didn't know you had.
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While I breastfed my newborn I noticed atypical feeding and swallowing behaviors (e.g., tongue thrust, choking, loud gulping). I recognized that this wasn't normal. I had him checked by a few medical providers, but unfortunately I did not meet with right ones. In short, they told me "he'd grow out of it". I felt completely disregarded. I was so confused, overwhelmed, tired, you name it. I knew this wasn't what normal feeding looked like. So I trusted my gut (as his mom & as a therapist), I read the research, enrolled in continuing education courses, and finally met with professionals who specialized in infant feeding. Finally, I found those who listened and understood. All my concerns were validated and supported.
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​​​Later I began to realize just how many other moms were going through similar struggles. That was when I knew I needed to create a space—a practice—dedicated to supporting parents, especially moms, who are facing the same thing I once did. It became my mission to walk alongside families, offering them the support, guidance, and the understanding they needed.
MY PURPOSE
After losing my third child, Elijah, I experienced a whole new life and world. I never imagined walking through loss in motherhood. But God penned each chapter of my life with purpose, weaving my story with grace, love, and a vision far beyond my understanding. Though there was darkness, there was also so much light. This light restored me, it gave me hope, it healed me, and gave me the strength to grow.
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To honor my son and the light his life shined, I renamed my practice from Ola to Be Light. I pray I am able to share His light with the community I serve.
Being a parent is hard, probably the hardest thing you’ll ever do, but also the best thing you’ll ever do. It comes with challenges but the good news is you don’t have to do it alone. Community is such a blessing, and I’d love to be a part of yours. I’m here to support you.
MY APPROACH
I want to empower you with all the resources and tools you need to achieve your family's speech and/or feeding goals. My goal is to provide hope, education, practical and functional solutions for your family. I start with a comprehensive functional assessment that looks at your child’s overall development and wellness, beyond the mouth. My holistic approach is grounded in the whole-body perspective, recognizing that eating and talking involves so much more than the mouth. After the assessment, together we'll partner up to create a plan that will be unique to you and your family. I’ll share with you personalized techniques, strategies, and exercises that promote the development of speech and feeding skills.
I'm truly so grateful you're here reading about Be Light. I hope to be a light in your journey through motherhood.
