Being a rare disease parent means living in a world of unpredictability—and in this powerful follow-up episode, Jessica Troiano shares what that really looks like. From a terrifying recent emergency surgery to the countless difficult decisions she’s had to make over the years, Jess opens up about the emotional and mental toll of parenting a medically complex child.
She talks about the weight of advocacy, the fear of the unknown, and how every choice—big or small—can feel overwhelming when your child has 15 medical diagnoses. But even through the hardest moments, she continues to find strength, hope, and deep love in the journey.
Sponsored by Adirondack Trust and Amsure, this episode is a raw and honest look at the side of parenting we rarely hear about. https://www.adirondacktrust.com
Find Heather and Jake’s Help from Heaven:
❤️ APOY Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aplaceofyespodcast/
❤️ Heather’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathersstraughter/
❤️ Jake’s Help from Heaven: https://jakeshelpfromheaven.org/
❤️ Jake’s Help from Heaven IG: https://www.instagram.com/jakeshelp/
❤️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jakeshelpfromheaven
❤️ Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@APlaceofYesPodcast
Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio
FIND HEATHER & JAKE’S HELP FROM HEAVEN ⬇️
❤️ Heather’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathersstraughter/
❤️ Jake’s Help from Heaven: https://jakeshelpfromheaven.org/
❤️ Jake’s Help from Heaven IG: https://www.instagram.com/jakeshelp/
❤️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jakeshelpfromheaven
❤️ Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@APlaceofYesPodcast
Connect with us on social media:
• Heather’s Instagram
• Jake’s Help from Heaven
• Jake’s Help from Heaven IG
• Facebook
• Our YouTube Channel
Keep scrolling for the episode transcript.
Checkout our other episodes
A Place of YES: Hard Conversations That Make You Laugh
Season 2 of A Place of Yes dives deeper into the resilience of those facing grief, rare diseases, and life’s challenges, sharing untold stories of hope, love, and perseverance. Join Heather Straughter on December 11th for heartfelt moments and powerful connections as she continues to create a space for growth, healing, and saying yes to life.
How A Place of Yes Is Changing Lives: Reading YOUR Feedback
Ready to hear how A Place of Yes is changing lives? In this special episode, Heather dives into unfiltered listener feedback that reveals the true impact of the show—from sparking courage to helping others find hope in their hardest moments.Tune in to hear Heather’s reactions and reflections on the powerful ways this community is making a difference.
Dreaming of Our Deceased Loved Ones
In this episode of A Place of Yes, Heather opens up about a powerful, comforting dream in which she reconnects with her son Jake, hearing his voice for the first time and finding peace. She reflects on the signs Jake has sent over the years, offering hope to those who have lost a loved one.



