When Christina welcomed her daughter Anna into the world, she knew she wanted to give her the best start possible. But things weren’t easy. Anna was born with a brain bleed, and caring for her came with medical appointments, insurance questions, and the anxiety that comes with being a first-time parent.
She was under my insurance for only 60 days. Even without insurance, I still brought her to every appointment. But the bills started piling up.
At the same time, Christina was adjusting to all of Anna’s developmental milestones—celebrating the big ones like smiling and rolling over, while waiting eagerly for the next.
She knew she couldn’t do it alone.
Support That Shows Up
That’s when Christina met Shadonae, a HealthySteps Specialist at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. Through HealthySteps, Christina got help with applying for Medicaid, SNAP, and WIC, plus practical tips for parenting and emotional support when things felt overwhelming.
If I need help or just someone to talk to, I reach out. I’m grateful we met.
Now, Anna has health coverage. Christina has support, guidance, and confidence. And both are thriving, one small milestone at a time.
This story is part of a shared journey. Read how Shadonae supported Christina and continues to walk beside families like hers.
