Welcome to a special patient spotlight series in celebration of Dizzy Parents Day, hosted by the Dizzy Moms Club in partnership with VeDA. By sharing these real-life journeys and practical ‘dizzy parenting hacks,’ our goal is to help parents navigating chronic dizziness find their way out of isolation and into a supportive village. Each feature highlights the voice, vulnerability, and inspiring resilience of a parent navigating an invisible vestibular disorder.
David’s Story
What is your specific diagnosis (or type of chronic dizziness), and how old are your child(ren)?
My diagnosis is complications from a cerebral hemorrhage stroke. I have three boys, all in their 40s, and 5 grandchildren, ranging in age from 21 to 9.
What is a “dizzy parenting hack” or tool you rely on to get through the week?
Although I am a parent of grown children, I do have several grandchildren. And when they come to visit, here is a hack I use — Build in “low-energy” parenting days—keeping meals simple, lowering expectations
How do you talk to your children about your dizziness in a way they can understand?
The easiest way I have found is KISS: Keep it simple, I mean really simple!
What has been the most challenging or surprising emotional hurdle of parenting with an invisible illness?
This was a tough one, but here goes: One of the hardest emotional hurdles has been feeling guilty when I can’t parent the way I want to. Because my illness is invisible, it can be difficult for others—and sometimes even my kids—to understand why I can’t always do the things I normally would. Learning to accept that being a good parent doesn’t mean doing everything, but being present in the ways I can, has been a big part of that journey.
What is a moment where you felt incredibly proud of yourself as a parent, despite your symptoms?
When my expectations were that I couldn’t do a task with the kids, but I accomplished it anyway.
How did finding an ally network or a support group shift how you view your diagnosis?
It helped me realize I wasn’t alone and that what I was experiencing was valid. Having people who truly understood gave me hope, confidence, and a sense of community.
Why is an international advocacy day like Dizzy Parents Day so important to you, and what message of encouragement would you send to another parent who is currently suffering alone right now?
Dizzy Parents Day reminds us that invisible illnesses can affect every part of family life, and no parent should feel like they’re facing it alone. My message is simple: you’re not alone, your experience is valid, and it’s okay to ask for help.