In recognition of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and Brain Injury Awareness Month this March, we’re highlighting the voice of a kid expert championing disability advocacy at Children’s Minnesota. We spoke with Bridget Holmen, Children's Health Network RN ambulatory care coordinator and Disability Advocacy employee resource group (ERG) co-chair, about her role, her involvement with the ERG, and what she wants others to know about developmental disabilities and brain injuries.
Get to know Bridget!
Tell us about your role and what you love most about it.
“I’m an RN ambulatory care coordinator working with medically complex patients and their families at our general pediatric clinics. My role in care coordination is unique. I work with families navigating life outside the hospital system — where health care meets ‘real life.’ I’m also the mother of a beautiful daughter with a rare chromosomal disorder and developmental delay, and the aunt of a medically complex nephew. I understand very intimately the work it takes to meld health care with real life. That brings me to the greatest joy of my role: when our team alleviates barriers to care while preserving as much family time as possible. That is a step in the right direction!”
What motivated you to join the Disability Advocacy ERG and how has it shaped your sense of belonging here?
“When I learned of the Disability Advocacy ERG I had to do a double take. Is this a real thing? It took me less than a minute to sign up after watching a documentary called “UNSEEN: How We’re Failing Caregivers and Why It Matters,” hosted by the Disability Advocacy ERG. As a person with an invisible disability and as a caregiver of a person with several disabilities, it felt like a ‘home’ where I could offer support to others and perhaps bring a supporting hand to the system. I also hoped to learn about what support there was within Children’s Minnesota for people working here with disabilities and those caring for people with disabilities.
“Participating in the Disability Advocacy ERG has provided a community that is far-reaching beyond the ERG. There are opportunities to support so many fellow employees and communities surrounding Children’s Minnesota. It is a beacon in what feels like a dark world sometimes. I feel supported by an amazing group that I never would have known had I not stepped out of my comfort zone and into the ERG world, and I am so grateful.”
Do you have a favorite memory with the Disability Advocacy ERG?
“During my first year with the ERG, we joined forces with the Military and Veterans ERG to educate staff during Mental Health Awareness Month. One of our activities was a panel discussion, including a panel member from a local men’s support group. Before the panel discussion was done, there was a positive response to this resource!”
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about developmental disabilities and brain injuries?
“Do not put a barrier around anyone; there are endless possibilities for success. I look at my daughter every day and marvel at her unique perspectives, talents and dreams. The world needs her, and she contributes all day every day, along with her friends and classmates. There is an old song with the phrase, ‘stop, collaborate and listen.’ This is a perfect motto for being a good human. We just need to find out what type of communication the other person uses and listen in.”
What do you think makes kids remarkable?
“I never underestimate the innate understanding that children have; they will read a room, read an emotion – and if you think that you are talking over them – you are not! Children are so intuitive and such beautiful examples of compassion and understanding. We must give them the chance to lean into their care and be ‘part’ of the team. We will never regret listening to children.”
