#080 Dr Raja Mukherjee: What Happens When We Never Give Up on FASD
Do you often feel alone as a caregiver? Like you are hitting a brick wall or blowing into the wind when trying to get professionals on board? In this episode, you will hear that sometimes professionals experience the same. The last time I spoke to today’s guest, Dr. Raja Mukherjee, was five years ago. There was next to nothing for FASD in the United Kingdom. Today I check in to find out where they are now.
Dr. Mukherjee started the first NHS-based specialist Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders behavioural clinic and since then has seen hundreds of cases for a specialist second opinion.
The journey began at a time where, if I am honest, I should not have been in the situation to be the expert. In fact, at that time I was still learning. Now I feel I have enough knowledge and experience to call myself an expert. Back then, it was a very steep learning curve. I was fortunate to have good support from Baroness Hollins and Professor Turk, as well as internationally recognized FASD experts, such as Professor Ed Riley to turn to for help.
In this episode, we talk about Raja’s road to FASD awareness, how he became so passionate about specializing in it, his mentors and how it felt in those early days, as well as:
- The time he was plastered on the front page of the daily mail
- Why he never gave up, his philosophy on helping people and his vision for the future
- Advice for caregivers on how to get buy-in or bridge the gap with professionals
The reality is, we should be willing to listen (to caregivers). We are different. I know the science and what’s going on behind it, but I cannot tell you what the lived experience is. People value not having to explain and feel heard.
We get the five “Ws” about his new book: Prevention, Recognition and Management of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, why it was written, when it was published, who the intended audience is, what is included, and where you can get a copy.
Despite all his accomplishments, Raja remains humble. He is quick to point to those who supported him and those who are working alongside him now. Like caregivers need to build a team around them for success, professionals need to do the same. He is an inspiration for caregivers on not giving up – he could have many times, like caregivers, but he kept going. I think you will find he balances his professional knowledge with compassion and understanding for the experiences of caregivers and individuals with FASD.
Show Notes:
Book: Prevention, Recognition and Management of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Article: A reflection on 15 years working with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) in the UK
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About Host
Jeff Noble
Host
Jeff Noble is the Founder and CEO of FASD Success, an organization that provides hope and education to people caring for someone living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) through online applications and in-person training sessions, demonstrations and consultations.
