Becoming a parent is a joyous, yet challenging time for any family. But when one parent is a first responder, like a firefighter, the challenges can be unique. Breanna, a recent guest on the “When The Call Hits Home” podcast, shared her experience of balancing life with a newborn and a husband who is a firefighter paramedic. Through her story, there are valuable insights into the world of first responder parenting challenges.

Understanding the First Responder Schedule

Breanna didn’t have any first responders in her family growing up, so marrying one meant adapting to a totally new lifestyle. First responders have unpredictable schedules. For instance, Breanna mentioned times where she’d plan to see her husband only for him to be called away unexpectedly. This unpredictability means learning to adjust plans continuously and understanding that flexibility is crucial.

Preparing for the Unpredictable

Breanna emphasizes the importance of not having high expectations regarding her husband’s availability because emergencies don’t adhere to schedules. This means she’s had to learn how to manage most of the day-to-day activities with her son on her own. By planning her days as if she were solo parenting, any extra family time with her husband becomes an unexpected bonus, not a missed expectation.

Building a Community

One of the most helpful ways Breanna found support was through connecting with other wives of first responders. She highlights the importance of finding friends who understand the lifestyle, as it can be challenging to explain the complexities to those not living it. Being part of a support network where she can share experiences ensures she never feels isolated or unsupported.

Self-Care and Routines

Breanna shares how vital self-care is to maintain balance and sanity. With her husband working long shifts, Breanna uses the time to focus on herself and her needs. Whether that’s watching a favorite show in pajamas or going shopping, it helps maintain a sense of normalcy. Establishing a routine for herself and her baby is also key, ensuring stability even when her husband’s schedule is erratic.

Celebrating Family Time Differently

Holidays and special occasions often look different for first responder families. Breanna explains how her family celebrates on days that work around her husband’s schedule. This flexibility allows them to maintain family traditions and create cherished memories, even if they don’t celebrate on the exact holiday.

Navigating Parenthood with Expertise and Fear

Being a NICU nurse and married to a paramedic gave Breanna insight into health realities, though it also brought anxiety during pregnancy and early parenthood. Both she and her husband struggled with heightened concerns due to their medical backgrounds. Despite this, they learned to manage their worries together, acknowledging the blend of professional insight and personal emotion.

Final Thoughts

Breanna’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. For those balancing first responder parenting challenges, her insights are invaluable. By fostering strong communication, building a supportive community, and maintaining flexibility, first responder families can navigate the unique challenges that come with new parenthood while honoring the critical work first responders do each day.