Every year in the UK, around 180 babies are born with Oesophageal Atresia (OA) and Tracheo-Oesophageal Fistula (TOF)—a rare congenital condition that affects the oesophagus (food pipe) and trachea (windpipe). Despite its frequency, awareness remains low, leaving many families feeling isolated when they receive a diagnosis. For me, OA/TOF awareness is deeply personal. After givingContinue reading “Understanding Oesophageal Atresia and Tracheo-Oesophageal Fistula (OA/TOF): A Rare but Significant Condition”
Author Archives: Laura Johnstone
How Dad La Soul Has Helped My Husband—And Why You Should Support Their Work
Parenthood can feel isolating at times, especially for dads who often find themselves overlooked in the support system. That’s why Dad La Soul, founded by the incredible Dan Flanagan, has been a lifeline—not just for dads across the UK but for my husband, too. Why Dad La Soul Matters Dad La Soul isn’t just aContinue reading “How Dad La Soul Has Helped My Husband—And Why You Should Support Their Work”
The Power of Consistency – 100 Blogs and 50 Days in a Row!
Consistency is one of the hardest things to maintain, especially when life throws challenges your way. But today, I’m celebrating a milestone that reminds me why showing up matters—I’ve written 100 blog posts on The Good, The Bad, and Your Parenting Journey, and I’ve posted every day for the last 50 days. When I startedContinue reading “The Power of Consistency – 100 Blogs and 50 Days in a Row!”
No Surrender: A Life Defined by Survival and Determination
Life is full of battles—some we expect, and others take us by surprise. My story is one of survival, resilience, and an unshakable determination to never give in. From being born prematurely at just 28 weeks to surviving sepsis as an adult, my journey has been anything but ordinary. And yet, through every challenge, IContinue reading “No Surrender: A Life Defined by Survival and Determination”
How My Parents Shaped Who I Am
When I think about the person I am today, I realise just how much of that is down to my parents. They were both teachers before they retired, and education was always at the centre of our home. My dad eventually became a headteacher, and from an early age, I was instilled with the beliefContinue reading “How My Parents Shaped Who I Am”
Why Neonatal Leave and Extended Maternity Pay Matter for Families in the NICU
Bringing a baby into the world should be a time of joy and excitement. But for parents of premature or sick babies who require neonatal care, this experience can be filled with fear, stress, and financial hardship. Many families face a heartbreaking reality: they must return to work far too soon or risk falling intoContinue reading “Why Neonatal Leave and Extended Maternity Pay Matter for Families in the NICU”
Finding Our Perfect Home: A Space for Amelia to Grow
Last year, Ryan, Amelia, and I moved into what truly feels like our dream home—a two-bedroom flat that’s close to Ryan’s work and everything we need. After spending so much time in our previous home, a one-bedroom apartment, we realised that as much as we loved it, it simply wasn’t practical for us as aContinue reading “Finding Our Perfect Home: A Space for Amelia to Grow”
From Shock to Relief: The Journey from Our 20-Week Scan to 30 Weeks
Pregnancy is a rollercoaster—one moment you’re filled with excitement, the next you’re drowning in uncertainty. I felt this shift most profoundly between my 20-week scan and my 30-week scan. At 20 weeks, I had been looking forward to sharing the excitement of finding out whether we were having a boy or a girl. My weightContinue reading “From Shock to Relief: The Journey from Our 20-Week Scan to 30 Weeks”
Finding My Voice Again: How Sepsis Changed My Love for Singing
When I was younger, singing was one of my greatest joys. I loved music, the way it could transport me to another place, the way it made me feel free. I would sing anywhere and everywhere—karaoke nights, in the car, at home. I even had the privilege of singing for guests when I worked inContinue reading “Finding My Voice Again: How Sepsis Changed My Love for Singing”
What’s Your Favourite Candy? The Sweet Debate!
When it comes to sweet treats, everyone has their favourite. Some love a classic bar of chocolate, while others crave the tangy kick of sour sweets or the nostalgia of boiled sweets from childhood. But for me, it has to be chocolate—without a doubt. After spending time working on cruise ships and travelling through CostaContinue reading “What’s Your Favourite Candy? The Sweet Debate!”
The bad and your parenting journey 