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.

Here’s what I’ve learned about how to effectively advocate for your child when they’re 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 spent 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 child’s 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 can’t count the number of times I had to push back when professionals downplayed my son’s symptoms or suggested solutions that didn’t work for us.

Your voice matters. Be polite but firm. Remember, you are your child’s best advocate.

3. Find Your Tribe

The eczema and TSW community is full of parents and individuals who’ve walked this road. Connecting with them provides emotional support and practical advice.

At first, I felt completely alone. It wasn’t until I shared our story that I realized how many others were going through the same thing. That’s 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

It’s not uncommon to face skepticism from doctors, family members, or even strangers who think you’re overreacting. Advocacy sometimes means standing up against people who don’t understand what your child is going through.

When my son faced the challenges of TSW, I didn’t just tell his story…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 doesn’t stop with your child. It’s 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. That’s how Scrachee was born…not just as a brand, but as a mission.

Our products weren’t created in a boardroom; they were born out of desperation, love, and a deep understanding of what it’s 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 it’s a day with fewer flare-ups, a new food that doesn’t trigger symptoms, or your child finally getting a good night’s sleep…celebrate it.

Final Thoughts

Advocating for your child isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding roles you’ll ever have. It takes grit, resilience, and a whole lot of heart ❤️‍🩹

For me, advocacy meant not just finding solutions for my son but creating something bigger… a community and a purpose that helps others navigate their own journeys. If you’re in the trenches right now, know this: you are the hero your child needs.

You’ve got this.

From one warrior parent to another,

Veronica