Meet Jessica Patay

We were lucky to catch up with Jessica Patay recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jessica, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

I believe that purpose can be found where burdens and passions collide. I am a living breathing example of just that!
I have always been passionate about the power of connection and community; and I have a heart that aches for families grappling with disabilities and medical complexities everywhere. That is why I founded WE ARE BRAVE TOGETHER. Caregiving Moms, mothers who have children (any age) with all types of disabilities and unique needs are suffering from isolation, loneliness, burnout, and compassion fatigue. Our mission is to combat all of those struggles with what we offer: support groups, weekend retreats offering rest, respite and resources, an inspirational and practical podcast, and our newest offering: an anthology of caregiving stories to raise awareness about extreme and extraordinary caregiving.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I believe in transformation. I believe that crises and chronic hardship can turn into something beautiful and meaningful.
I have a son, age 20, with a rare, genetic disorder, called Prader-Willi syndrome. It’s a crazy mix of medical symptoms, psychological symptoms, and difficult behaviors. It was so shocking to receive this news when my son was just 5 weeks of age. When parents are given a devastating diagnosis of their child they can do two things: ask why me or ask what now? I did both. And when I finally was able to ask, “what now?” and waited for the answer, the answer came in the form of a dream. A dream to better the lives and mental health of fellow caregiving moms who were exhausted, lonely, seeking resources, desperate for respite and community with like-minded women. That is why I founded We Are Brave Together in 2017.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

The three skills I believe I brought to this new role: a very clear passion for this mission, being a natural gatherer and connector, and sharing my story vulnerably and openly.

I think whatever you do, you must be very clear on why. Why are you pursuing this cause or this career? What compels you or propels you to do so? The why will get you through the ups and downs and obstacles.

Also, let passion push you through your fears about the actual execution of your dream or business or nonprofit. In today’s day of social media marketing, you have to be willing to share your story and gather others to your cause. Authentically and creatively sharing your story/mission/business is key to gathering and connecting. Learn how to tell your story–there are a million storytellers to learn from! Don’t be afraid to self-promote as long as you are authentic and genuine about what you are offering, whether its a service or a product.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

We are seeking businesses or individuals to collaborate with us and support our weekend retreats. As an organization, we subsidize 75-100% of the cost of these retreats to make them accessible to moms. We also offer 3 retreat scholarships per retreat. We need financial sponsors so that we may offer more retreats in more locations throughout the US. Our 2700 moms represent all 50 states and 25 countries. We want to expand our retreat programs and even do a large scale retreat or conference for parents. This will take financial backing to be able to scale this programming and services.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Image of Jessica : Claire Painchaud Photography
Image of group of moms: Brooke Tobin Photography

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