From “Fine” to Honest: A Parent’s Reflection on Her Family's Emotional Health Journey

Written by Amy Ohmer

Amy Ohmer is the mother of two daughters living with Type 1 diabetes and the creator of Naturally Sweet Sisters, a blog series supporting children, teens and families navigating chronic illness. She is an independent advisor, speaker and consultant who partners with hospitals, insurers and pharmaceutical organizations to elevate patient and family perspectives, improve quality of life and advance efforts toward a cure for Type 1 diabetes.

Pictured: Amy Ohmer with daughters Olivia and Reece

Next year, 2026, marks two decades of our daughters living with multiple chronic autoimmune conditions. As a parent, I have found myself reflecting on our shared years of learning and the triumphs that have followed. I say “our” because when a diagnosis occurs, it impacts the entire family. Much like the musketeers, we are all for one and one for all. Most notably, while there have been incredible advances in the research on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for chronic conditions, equally important has been the growing recognition that patients and parents must be seen, heard and included in their mental wellness care. Progress in understanding and addressing the emotional impact of chronic illness is due in large part to the leadership of the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) and the incredible community effort behind launching the Roadmap for Emotional Health Project. 

For our family, the first diagnosis came as a shock with a litany of medical jargon, lost sleep and loads of worry. I felt alone, afraid of making a critical error and, at the same time, very aware that my everyday behavior shaped how my daughters would view their own journeys. The phrase “fake it until you make it” belied my true feelings and to anyone on the outside, I looked fine. In fact, I often repeated that very phrase when asked how I was doing, “I am just fine, thank you.” 

I believed that because I wasn’t the patient there was little a provider could offer me in terms of support. In time, I found other families who openly shared their own fears, stress, and anxiety. Their honesty began to normalize the emotional burden of caregiving. Unfortunately, there remained no clear path to supporting parents within the clinic space.  

Soon after, the ABP convened a panel of parents and patients to share their stories, highlighting the national need for emotional and social-behavioral tools and support throughout chronic and complex health care journeys.  

Today, when asked, “How are you?” my daughters and I no longer feel the need to respond with a simple “fine.” We can be honest about our feelings. Knowing there is a path to tools and support, not only for patients and parents but also for providers and community members, has improved outcomes for social, emotional, and behavioral wellbeing. Families are no longer alone, and after two decades, our journey finally has a clear roadmap to staying healthy and well in the years ahead. 

xo 

Amy