Swap event raises the bar for vital support network

The Radiance Network’s hugely popular Swap N Raise event was held at Solitaire Homestead on Saturday, and raised funds in the vicinity of $35,000 through support and generosity of guests and local businesses.

The group provides 1-on-1 support for parents in the South West, including in home service, to help them navigate the often difficult and emotional journey of bringing a new child into their lives.

The a fun-filled day of swapping, shopping, and socialising offered the chance to share and swap clothing, as well as live music, food and drinks, raffles and giveaways.

As well as soaking up some laughter and connection during the day, guests also shared their personal stories and gratitude for the deep impact the Radiance Network has had on their parenting journey.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect from the group but Radiance become my safe space,” explained mum of four, Lara, who was dealing with the arrival of twin girls along with medical complications for one of her daughters, when she was offered the support of Radiance Network.

“A place where I could take the mask off and stop pretending everything was ok,” she said.

“A place outside the home where I had help with the twins and a hot cup of tea.

“A place where they asked ME how I was and didn’t let me hide behind just telling them how the kids are.”

As Lara and her children dealt with months of hospital stays, open heart surgery for baby Emma, and the associated fear, anxiety and depression, Radiance Network’s dedicated team were there to support them all.

“I got the support I needed. I was able to rest my brain and body. Through out my stay Heidi and CJ would touch base and it was comforting to know once I was discharged I wasn’t alone.”

In a surprise turn of events, Lara once again discovered she was pregnant and reached out to the group to seek support as she embarked on her fourth pregnancy in four years.

“I found this pregnancy extremely difficult, not physically, but mentally. I was disconnected and fearful of what was to come.”

Post-partum, Lara found herself at rock bottom and feeling she was running out of options, she confided in Radiance Network’s CJ Heins, who stepped in to arrange the care Lara needed to save her life, and her child.

“My kids are now 6, 4, 4 and 2. Life is still chaotic, loud and sleep deprived but I wouldn’t change it. I’m so grateful to be their mum and thankful I am still here for them.”

First-time mother Anjelica echoed Lara’s sentiments, saying Radiance Network came into her life “at just the right time”.

“We had a trans-continental pregnancy, and when I arrived in Busselton, I knew I had to make connections otherwise postpartum was going to be too difficult to handle,” Anjelica said.

“The outreach service connected me to mothers, events, and services which have hugely enhanced my wellbeing and brought me out of my shell, during a time where it was easy to fall into the pits of isolation and emotional and physical depletion.

“I couldn’t imagine where I’d be without Radiance. Likely very sad, stressed, and lonely.

“They changed the narrative for our family.

“Not only is our baby thriving, but as a new mother, I feel seen, heard, and respected.”

Anjelica said there was more than just mum-and-baby support on offer, with fathers included in Radiance’s programs.

“My husband was also able to connect with fathers from different walks of life through exemplary facilitation at Radiance’s Dad’s group.

“He found companionship and solace that he didn’t know he needed.”

As women offered their personal stories at the event, clothes were swapped and purchased, prizes were handed out and plenty of laughs and tears were shared as the group reflected on the impact it has on South West parents.

“Thank you Radiance team for providing this free support to mums in the South West,” Lara said.

“Thank you for providing a safe where I could just be.

“Thank you for holding and loving my babies when I was feeling too touched out.

“Thank you for the tissues and hugs when I cried.

“Thank you for advocating for me to get the help and support I needed.

“Thank you for the new friendships in my life.

“Thank you for the life skills you taught me.

“Thank you for keeping me safe from myself so I can be here to watch my children grow big and strong.”

To seek support, find out how you can help, and connect with Radiance Network, visit radiancesouthwest.com.au