Recognizing Infantile Spasms: Navigating a Diagnosis as a Nurse Practitioner

What happens when a pediatric nurse practitioner suddenly finds herself on the other side of diagnosis?

On this week's episode of Inside the Children's Hospital, Katie Taylor sits down with Laura Forcella, a developmental pediatric nurse practitioner and mom to a son with Dup15q syndrome and epilepsy. Laura shares the deeply personal journey of recognizing her son's infantile spasms, navigating a rare disease diagnosis, and balancing life as both a medical professional and a caregiver.

Laura opens up about the unique challenges of being a "med mom," the emotional shift from provider to parent, and how her experiences have transformed the way she supports families in her own clinical practice. Together, Katie and Laura discuss the power of parental intuition, the importance of early intervention, building a village of support, and finding moments of joy amidst the complexities of caregiving.

Whether you're a parent navigating a diagnosis, a healthcare professional supporting families, or someone looking for encouragement on a difficult journey, this conversation is filled with compassion, wisdom, and hope.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Laura's path from pediatric ICU and ER nurse to developmental pediatric nurse practitioner

• How she recognized the early signs of infantile spasms in her son

• The diagnostic journey that led to a Dup15q syndrome diagnosis

• What it's like to care for patients while navigating your own child's medical complexities

• Why videos can be critical when seeking answers for concerning symptoms

• The importance of trusting your instincts as a parent

• How early intervention services can help while waiting for specialist appointments

• The realities of balancing advocacy, caregiving, work, and self-care

• Finding community through rare disease organizations and social media

• How a child's diagnosis can shape and strengthen a parent's identity

Resources Mentioned:

• Dup15q Alliance

• Early Intervention Programs (available in every U.S. state)

Connect with Laura:

• Developmental Med Mom on Instagram (@developmentalmedmom)

Connect with us!

• Instagram: @childlifeoncall + @insidethechildrenshospital

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Medical information shared in this episode is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your care team for guidance specific to your child and family.

Keywords: Infantile Spasms, Dupq15, Nurse Practitioner, Developmental Pediatrics, Seizures, Child Life Specialist, Support