SPEAK...

SummerTime!!!

2010-06-06T09:51:00.005-05:00

Summer is a wonderful time to have a baby! (Or is it?)

When a newborn comes into your life, you will become restricted in what you can do and how you do it for a little while. Most believe it to be more convienent to have a baby in the summer. You can still do things and not feel secluded inside your home. It is safe enough to take the baby out, whether it be a walk or to the store to run your errands, because it is not as cold as it is in the winter. You can even soak up some sun with your new baby, wihtout the fear of he or she becoming ill.!! Very true...

I had my son on April 27th, spring leading into summer. It was a very hot summer, the summer of the Cicadas. (Believe it or not, I only heard them once.)
I still was unable to go to the pool, mostly because I was self-conscious about my new body. And I was also anxious about taking my new son anywhere. It seemed easier to just stay home and feed him every 2hours. This can happen winter or summer, no matter the season.

The one thing, I truly believe, that makes the difference is not the season but the amount of support we have as new mothers. The season can make it a little less restrictive but we all need the support regardless of what season our child is born in.

So enjoy your summer and remember to ask for the help when you need it. You deserve it. Family and friends are great people to turn to and of course you may contact me at nataliedombrowski@live.com anytime

Warm thoughts as always, Natalie

Two year Anniversary of a Woman's Hidden and Lost Struggle with Postpartum Depression

2010-03-01T17:41:00.010-06:00

February 27, 2010, two years without a daughter, two years without a wife, two years without a MOTHER..? This breaks my heart...

Please watch the video below. Pass this along to any and all the people you know that may or may not be affected. The more people aware of these terrible disorders claiming the lives of mothers everywhere, the more we can stop leaving behind children and families lost without these precious women.

This is why we need to SPEAk..!

Please spread awareness, Natalie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYIRZbyXnu0

SPEAKing

2010-01-22T16:51:00.003-06:00

I haven't spoke in over two months at any mom's groups or community groups. I haven't been thinking about what happen to me almost three years ago. I believe that is a good thing and a bad thing.

Good, in the way that I have been able to truly live in the moment with my son. No pain, just happiness. And of course, frustration from time to time, but mostly love.

If I don't smile enough for him, he will say, "Mommy, be Happy" I love hearing him say that. I love hearing him say, "Mommy, the sun said 'HI' to me!" I still look at him in the rear view mirror as if he is still a baby. And I realize, he still is a baby, much bigger now, but he will always be my baby. He is the sweetest thing, I truly love looking at his bright blue eyes as they take in everything around him. Such a beautiful thing to watch every day, as he discovers life.

Not SPEAking is bad, when I can't tell those women who may be suffering, that this to will happen for them.

With Love, Natalie

Right Now... Two years and eight months later.!!!

2009-12-10T20:18:00.010-06:00

Right Now, is where I want to be!

I looked at my son, Brian, today. I was truly in awe.!! All moms will know what I am talking about at some point in their parenting. I know that I did not feel anything like that when he was born. I never thought I would like, enjoy anything again, let alone this new little baby boy that entered my life, so dependent on me.

Today, I actually was sad thinking one day, my little guy won't need me and I won't have him around all the time to enjoy and of course, be frustrated with, too.

He is only two and he already wants to be independent. I dropped him off at his one hour playschool class, that by the way only takes place once a week, and he didn't even look back.

Two things happened... First, I thought, WOW he really is growing up fast. Everyone is right.. :(

And Second, I thought, WOW, he knows I will be back and that I love him... He really trusts me and I trully never messed up after all.!!! Getting the help I needed was the best thing I could have ever done for him...

For now, I would like to wish you all Warm & Happy Holidays.!!

I will blog again next year, I am going to enjoy the now, FOR NOW..!!!

Natalie :)

The Winners Are.!!

2009-11-14T09:26:00.009-06:00

I would like to congratulate Marcie, Jill, and Cindy for a job well done. They all recieved a free copy of my book, 'Back to You' for being the top three recruiters in October. They should all be commended.

There will be another book contest on facebook in 2010. Look for future announcements at our cause page on facebook http://apps.facebook.com/causes/speak

With Hopes for Greater Awareness, Natalie

Campaign for Awareness... Contest for Motivation... Compassion for All..!!!

2009-10-01T10:32:00.007-05:00

I will be running a contest on Facebook to help spread the information that October is National Depression Awareness Month. The goal is to lessen stigma related with depression and other mood disorders and educate people about our country's free National Depression Screening Day on October 8, 2009. If you would like to be a part of this campaign go to facebook and join S.P.E.A.K.

All you have to do is recruit the most people by the end of October and you can win a copy of 'Back to You'. The top three recruiters will recieve a free copy. (Ten dollar value.) Most importantly, spread the word and SPEAK up for those suffering.

Please help, Natalie

If you or someone you know could benefit from a free depression screening on October 8, 2009 just visit www.mentalhealthscreening.org for a location in your community.

October is National Depression Awareness Month

2009-09-23T11:21:00.001-05:00

In honor of this, free depression screening tests have been set up throughout the U.S. at numerous sites on October 8, 2009

Locations throughout the country can be found at www.mentalhealthscreening.org

Dispelling the Myths of Perinatal Mood Disorders

2009-09-12T10:58:00.002-05:00

September 30th at Christ Hospital, for more information please e-mail me at nataliedombrowski@live.com.

Why...???

2009-07-31T17:23:00.010-05:00

I have been asked why I have not blogged in awhile. Two main reasons have caused me to step back!

First, after my interview I had a hard time. Answering all those questions made everything rush back to me. I started to feel anxious again. Also, family and friends began asking if Brian and I were going to start trying to have another baby.

I found myself trying to figure it out, again with lots of anxiety running through me. I read a book about the myths and facts about raising an only child. Why...??? Because honestly, feeling anxious about the question was enough to make me decide that having another baby was not something I was comfortable with. I still am not comfortable with the idea, every time I think of having another baby I get scared. I would love to, but I just don't have it in me right now.

Second, I wanted to focus all my attention on my son and enjoy the summer. If he, in fact, will be my only child, I DO NOT want to miss him growing up.!!! Everyone says, "it flys by", so I am trying to embrace my time with him as much as possible. I hope everyone understands.

I am here and will begin posting much more in September. October is National Depression Awareness Month and that includes postpartum depression as well. I have a lot I would like to accomplish. So you will be hearing much more from me.!

Sincerely, Natalie

Radio Interview to air on May 8 at 9:00am

2009-05-04T19:01:00.009-05:00

Tune in to 91.5 FM radio to hear my first live interview or
Go to www.wbez.org/848 and listen on-line now..!!! Just go to search, put in my name and download.!

Spread the word... Let's continue to lessen the stigma!!!

Brian will be 2 tomorrow..!!!

2009-04-26T16:09:00.004-05:00

Well, my baby is going to be two tomorrow!!! But we had his birthday party yesterday. He had a wonderful time, and so did we. He played with all his family and friends, opened his presents, and of course ate lots of food and his birthday cake.

The best part was when we sang Happy Birthday to him. We had been practicing for a long time. So, when it was over, he said,"AGAIN"..!!! That's what makes it all worth while...

What so many women NEED to do... Heal their heart and their self-esteem!!!

2009-03-21T11:14:00.008-05:00

I met a woman at a conference I attended for the March of Dimes. Her heart and mind were still suffering from the effects of a perinatal mood disorder. But worse, her self-concept.

My mission for myself and others has always been to alleviate the negative stigma related to PMD-perinatal mood disorders. I have had to make countless efforts to re-establish my own personal worth and esteem and I have thanked a lot of people for helping me distinguish the difference between my identity and my illness. So I am happy to say those same words have been said back to me, that is what my hopes have always been for 'Back to You'. Here are the words from her. Thank you so much, Olga. It was a pleasure meeting you.

After I left the conference, I read your memoir. I realized many things and I wrote to myself. I also wrote you a note and will send it to you as soon as I can remember to get the memoir back from my mom. Thanks for the book, but most importantly for getting me started on the road to healing my heart and self-esteem. This has been a priceless gift, no money can buy. Best,Olga

Feb. 20th's SPEAK... presentation

2009-02-22T18:33:00.006-06:00

I want to thank all of you for allowing me to SPEAK... at your book club. I want to thank Maureen for inviting me to discuss my book and Julie for hosting at her home. I felt honored to be welcomed by all of you. Also, I want to share my husband's very own interview, with Lauren Hale from postpartum dads. I know a few of you asked about my husband and the caring manner in which he handled my illness. So, I have attached a link to his interview. I hope it helps you better understand how it effected him as well. Again, I want to say thank you, sincerely, Natalie Dombrowski

http://postpartumdadsproject.org/2009/01/15/speaking-with-brian-dombrowski/

Ban Together

2009-02-16T21:05:00.009-06:00

Last Thursday, 'Private Practice' on ABC aired an episode that showed a mother suffering from postpartum psychosis. However, on the show they mentioned postpartum depression as well, causing much confusion. This is such a misguided piece of information.

ABC also called PSI(Postpartum Support International) which is a support network for mothers in need of help. They said they were going to include a clip with a description of postpartum depression and contact information for women in need of help. Well instead of airing it after the show it is on their website. And again, if the episode was about PPP then they should not say if you are suffering from PPD. We need to educate correctly.

I truly feel that instead of lessening the stigma ABC may have created another misunderstanding for millions of people. All women who suffer from any type of mood disorder after pregnancy need help. All of them need compassion and understanding. We need these outlets to create that for us so we can pull out from the darkness and enjoy motherhood. Not make it worse.

I ask you and anyone you know to go to there website and make a complaint. I have attached a link below, please help and let them know the disservice they have created for millions of mothers. If they are willing to own up to it, just maybe, they can air a correction and even the information they originally said they were going to. This happen before when one actor's ignorance overshadowed Brooke Sheild's attempt to educate the world more on the true definition of postpartum depression. Let's not let it happen again...

Please SPEAk... Sincerely, Natalie Dombrowski

http://abc.go.com/site/contactus.html?lid=ABCCOMGlobalFooter&lpos=CONTACT

"Back to You" available at The Belly Factory

2009-02-15T19:22:00.022-06:00

I am so excited to say that 'Back to You' is now available at The Belly Factory in Frankfort, Il. For those who live close and want to read my personal struggle and triumph over postpartum depression, it is available in the store. Just walk right in and ask for a copy of the book.

Lori, the owner, has also requested to have my five point presentation on mood disorders after pregnancy offered as a free class at her store. It will be held on March 18, 2009 at 7:00pm & scheduled monthly thereafter. Lori is a big advocate in helping mothers through birth and the thereafter. I want to thank her for the oppurtunity to SPEAk... Thanks Lori.

Expectant-Mother's Day Brunch, coming in May..!!! Further details will be posted...

Mom to Mom Club

2009-02-05T09:46:00.004-06:00

Yesterday's presentation went very well. I want to thank Laura & Mariclair for giving me the oppurtunity to SPEAK... Your mom's club allowed me to reach out to others in need. Even if it is one or even two women, my time and efforts feel worthwhile. Thank you so very much for having me... Natalie

E-mails

2009-01-30T08:49:00.007-06:00

This week, I recieved two e-mails from women who have or are still suffering from PPD.

One of them was inquiring about the possibilty of another baby after having PPD. I e-mailed her back and told her my husband and I are actually beginning to discuss this... I also told her that I just recently ordered a book titled, "What am I thinking, a baby after postpartum depression," written by Karen Kleiman. I am currently reading it. It is very good so far, and it offers a lot of information to help a couple decide what is best for them and their family. I would suggest this book to anyone who has suffered from PPD or her family and or friends. Family and friends are a big consideration in the matter, it is very important to have them on board to help the family who decides to move forward in their hopes to create a large and healthy family.

The second e-mail has been copied for all to read, Lori has agreed to allow me to share her e-mail... Her and I have said to people on seperate and numerous accounts, "I wish I knew of you before..." I want to thank Lori for SPEAKing, this is what we need, to know we are not alone...

Lori's e-mail:

Natalie,
I just finished your book on post-partum depression. I too suffered fromt his terrible illness last March after the birth of my third son, Owen. I was hospitalized three separate times until I was put on the right medication. I thought I was going to die, thinking I could never get well. I am well now after months of therapy, medication, great support and wonderful family and friends. I just want to thank you for writing the book. No one truly "gets it" until they have been through it. I am sorry you went through it too, I totally "get it". I wish I had known of you when I went through it. I hope you continue to be well, and that your son is flourishing.

Sincerely,
Lori Hennessy

Poll Results

2009-01-22T09:53:00.011-06:00

Out of 8 people polled, 6 of them believe a woman should recieve 4 or more post-natal visits. That is 75%, myself included...

As a mother, who was hospitalized at 5 weeks postpartum, I truly believe post-natal visits are of utmost importance. I never even made it to my, one and only, six week check up. It was to late.

Yesterday, I made a call to my previous doctor to see how many pre-natal visits I had before the birth of my son, I had 15. I did see that same doctor two weeks after I had my son, Brian, and it was only to have my stitches checked from the C-section. I truly can't understand how we go from 15 visits to 1, especially after a life changing experience. This is a problem that needs to be reformed. More than one post-natal visit should be mandatory. A pediatrician sees a child regularly within the first year after birth. What about us, the caretakers? If we are not well, how can we take care of our precious little ones and ourselves?

I want to thank all of you who voted, what you think counts...

I also want to acknowledge the moms who came to SPEAK... on January 16th

Your participation and vow to SPEAK... will help in the cause! All five of you are now SPEAKers...

Thanks again, Natalie

Book Signing!!!

2009-01-10T17:33:00.007-06:00

Mimi Maternity in Orland Park, IL.

Saturday, January 31st

1:00-3:00pm

January 8th Presentation

2009-01-10T16:56:00.003-06:00

I was so happy to be able to SPEAK...(Spread Postpartum Education & Awareness Kinship...) to 3 moms. I want to thank all of them, Kate, Erika, and Deborah, and of course Kate's little baby boy, Carter. He was a pleasure. I hope all of you will find the information helpful.

There names have been added to the participants column because they have vowed to SPEAK... (Spread Postpartum Education & Awareness Kinship...)
Thanks again, Natalie

New Year

2009-01-05T21:10:00.003-06:00

Well it's a new year... Time to reflect and look back. Today I was able to do just that.

I read a story about my story... It was the weirdest thing to read the article that Kristen Schorsh wrote about myself and my family in the Southtown Star. But I have to say, "thank you Kristen". She wrote about such a tough subject in a very upfront but caring and understanding way. I feel she wrote it with her heart. She is not a mom yet, but one day she will be, and a good one at that. I hope other people who our not moms and can not relate, can have such an open and understanding heart as Kristen. Thanks again, Kristen

2008-12-29T20:41:00.002-06:00

The signing at Mimi's went well. Well enough that, manager of Mimi's and new mom of six month old Cortez, Nicolette wants to invite me back on the 31st of January for another signing. She also will be joining us for our first SPEAK presentation on the 8th. She is truly helping me SPEAK...! Thank you so much, Nicolette...

First Article

2008-12-22T13:33:00.003-06:00

I am so honored to say that my home town newspaper 'The Tinley Junction' published a story about me & my struggle with postpartum depression. It is so wonderful to know that there are people who truly care and want to spread more light on this subject. Much thanks to Joe Coughlin. If you would like to view the article google Tinley Junction. Then search for the, Someone you Should Know, in the Dec. 18th issue.

Jenny's Light

2008-12-18T09:19:00.003-06:00

The one year anniversarry of Jenny's lost battle with postpartum depression is tomorrow... I can't help but think of her.

She was born in 1974, same year as myself... And her son, Graham, was born on my birthday, Nov. 1... I feel connected to her, and somehow feel that are stories are very similar... The outcome may be different, but I will never forget about her and her son, Graham... Take a minute to learn more about her on www.jennyslight.org the foundation her family has created in her memory. Please keep her and her family in your thoughts... Natalie

First book signing

2008-12-18T09:10:00.000-06:00

On Saturday the 27th of December from 11-1, I am having my first book signing ever... It is going to be at Mimi's Maternity store in Orland Park, Il... I am so excited.

First Presentation Coming Up

2008-12-01T20:25:00.001-06:00

My first presentation will be on Thursday January 8, 2009... I can't wait!!! Hopefully I will have some Speakers...