We're joining the Friday Introductions bandwagon, and taking time each week to introduce you to some of our amazing volunteer staff! Because our wonderful staff has grown so much, (amazing, truly.) We are doubling up each week on the introductions. This week we are highlighting some of the leaders of our support groups! First, we introduce you to Kirstin, our Grief Support Group leader. She is passionate about supporting women as they walk through the toughest parts of motherhood including infertility, miscarriage, and child loss.
1) Introduce yourself!
Kirstin Magnuson, 37. Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist at Wyndhurst Counseling Center. 3 kids: 8, 5, and 2 years old.
2) How did you come to work with TMC?
Through mutual friends, I met Lauren, who asked me to speak on a few panels. I really resonated with the purpose/mission of TMC.
3) How do you take your coffee?
I don’t; however, I enjoy the wonderful aroma in the house!
4) If you could pick any vacation in the world, what would it be and why?
Scenic & serene with my husband, Chad, perhaps a lake or two for sailing as well (Colorado/Utah).
5) What has been the hardest part about your motherhood journey?
Letting go of things/ideas I thoughts were important. Seeing a part of myself that still needs a lot of work. Coming to terms with the fact that I will be tested in many ways that continue to reveal my weaknesses & growth areas!
6) What has been the best part?
Learning to prioritize truly important, meaningful, valuable components of my life. Learning so much about myself & surprised by so many “little things” that make the journey so rich.
7) Leggings as pants: yay or nay?
Hmm… I have some, but mostly wear them at home with my favorite big, cozy sweater on cold, rainy days.
8) Favorite TV show?
So You Think You Can Dance
Frazier Re-runs
9) Favorite junk food?
Cherry chocolate chip cupcakes
10) Best advice you’ve ever been given?
Learn to live life with an open hand… don’t hold on to things too tightly.
Next up, we have our Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders Group leader, Jilayne! With postpartum depression begin the #1 complication of pregnancy and childbirth, her heart is filled with the desire is to walk alongside women in their journey toward healing.
1) Introduce yourself!
Jilayne, 30 years old.
Kids: Elizabeth, 9; Caylee, 7; Ethan, 5; Alan, 3
2) How did you come to work with TMC?
I went to the Postpartum Support VA volunteer training that Lauren & Maria also attended. As a result, I ended up on the postpartum panel that next month. Another month passed and I received an email asking to co-lead the PMAD support group beginning 2014. I was so thrilled to have the opportunity to invest into the women of my community and walk with them on the journey towards healing. What can I say, the rest is history!
3) How do you take your coffee?
I drink Dandy Blend, instead of coffee, but I take it the same – lots of flavored creamer!
4) If you could pick any vacation in the world, what would it be and why?
Touring Europe, specifically historic places… because I’m a nerd.
5) What has been the hardest part about your motherhood journey?
Learning how to process my emotions so I can properly teach my children to do the same. More recently, it has hit home the struggles I went through regarding my self-esteem as a growing girl, as one of my daughters has reached an age where she notices features about herself she doesn’t like. This has brought up buried emotions and my heart aches that I cannot shield my children from these struggles.
6) What has been the best part?
Looking into my children’s eyes and understanding unconditional love.
7) Leggings as pants: yay or nay?
Yes, as long as they are worn modestly...and they don't look like they are from the 80's!
8) Favorite TV show?
Currently, MASH… While I color & eat chocolate.
9) Favorite junk food?
Hershey’s milk chocolate with almonds – king size, because there’s more almonds.
10) Best advice you’ve ever been given?
The house can wait.