When my son was diagnosed with eczema and later faced the challenges of Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), I found myself thrust into an unfamiliar and overwhelming world. Like many parents, I wanted answers and solutions, but I quickly realized that advocating for my child would require more than just following the advice of professionals. It meant questioning, researching, and standing firm in the face of doubt.
Hereās what Iāve learned about how to effectively advocate for your child when theyāre dealing with eczema or TSW:
1. Educate Yourself
Before you can advocate for your child, you need to understand their condition. Research eczema and its triggers. Learn about treatments like topical steroids and their potential risks, including TSW.
I spentĀ countless nights investigating, researching, and experimenting with natural alternatives. This knowledge became my greatest weapon in conversations with doctors and taking action.
Pro Tip: Keep a detailed record of your childās symptoms, treatments, and reactions. This will help you have informed discussions with healthcare providers.
2. Trust Your Instincts
No one knows your child better than you do. If a treatment feels wrong or a doctor dismisses your concerns, trust your instincts. I canāt count the number of times I had to push back when professionals downplayed my sonās symptoms or suggested solutions that didnāt work for us.
Your voice matters. Be polite but firm. Remember, you are your childās best advocate.
3. Find Your Tribe
The eczema and TSW community is full of parents and individuals whoāve walked this road. Connecting with them provides emotional support and practical advice.
At first, I felt completely alone. It wasnāt until I shared our story that I realized how many others were going through the same thing. Thatās one of the reasons why I created this brand, not just to offer products but to build a community where real connections happen.
4. Speak Up Against Pushback
Itās not uncommon to face skepticism from doctors, family members, or even strangers who think youāre overreacting. Advocacy sometimes means standing up against people who donāt understand what your child is going through.
When my son faced the challenges of TSW, I didnāt just tell his storyā¦I worked tirelessly to find solutions, educate others, and support families like ours. Advocacy rooted in personal experience requires action, not just words.
5. Be the Change You Wish to See
Advocacy doesnāt stop with your child. Itās about creating change for others too. When I realized how many parents were going through the same struggle, I knew I had to do more. Thatās how Scrachee was bornā¦not just as a brand, but as a mission.
Our products werenāt created in a boardroom; they were born out of desperation, love, and a deep understanding of what itās like to see your child suffer. Today, we not only offer products that bring relief, but we also educate families about holistic healing and alternatives to steroids.
6. Celebrate Small Wins
Progress is slow, but every small victory counts. Whether itās a day with fewer flare-ups, a new food that doesnāt trigger symptoms, or your child finally getting a good nightās sleepā¦celebrate it.
Final Thoughts
Advocating for your child isnāt easy, but itās one of the most rewarding roles youāll ever have. It takes grit, resilience, and a whole lot of heart ā¤ļøāš©¹
For me, advocacy meant not just finding solutions for my son but creating something biggerā¦ a community and a purpose that helps others navigate their own journeys. If youāre in the trenches right now, know this: you are the hero your child needs.
Youāve got this.
From one warrior parent to another,
Veronica
