Season 2 of It’s Giving Health is now streaming. In the premiere episode, “Showing Up: Why Fatherhood Matters,” host Donnae Ward sits down with Scot McCray, CEO of Advance Community Health, and Kerry Mackey, PA-C, for an honest conversation about the challenges, responsibilities, and rewards of fatherhood.
Throughout the episode, McCray and Mackey discuss the lasting impact fathers have on their children’s health, development, and overall well-being. One of the key takeaways from the episode is that there is no perfect formula for parenting. “Parenthood is hard. There’s no blueprint on it,” Mackey said.
Both guests reflected on how fatherhood is a constant learning experience that requires patience, adaptability, and a willingness to grow alongside your children.
Postpartum and the Father’s Experience
Throughout the episode, they addressed the emotional and mental adjustments fathers experience after the birth of a child. While postpartum discussions frequently center on mothers, Mackey noted that fathers often face their own challenges, including anxiety, financial stress, relationship changes, and feelings of uncertainty.
Fatherhood often brings a new level of accountability and responsibility. McCray reflected on the pressures many men experience as they navigate the transition to parenthood while supporting their partners through significant life changes.
“If you’re flying into it blind, then you really have to be prepared to be a compassionate person, to be a selfless person, and understand that your wife, your woman, is going to go through a number of changes, but you also have this added pressure that’s real, the added pressure of now I have to be at a certain level of accountability, and there’s a certain level of responsibility,” McCray said.
Why Showing Up Matters
Showing up for your children is one of the most important ways parents can support their children. Whether you are outside playing, sharing a meal, or having a conversation, the time you spend with your children creates a sense of security and can support their overall emotional and cognitive development.
“Time is undefeated, and time will slip away from you, but really giving that time to your children is key, being there and being present. Being present more than just physically, but verbally, emotionally, spiritually,” said McCray.
Mackey expanded on the idea of presence and its impact on children’s development.
“Your kids kind of look at you as that prime example for how they model their lives in so many ways,” said Mackey.
Support at Advance Community Health
At Advance Community Health, we are committed to supporting the whole family. In addition to comprehensive health care services, we offer programs such as the Parenting Poppas Program, a unique initiative that teaches new dads essential parenting skills. This program reflects our dedication to supporting and empowering fathers in their parenting journey. Schedule an appointment today to learn how our team and programs can help you and your family thrive.
Watch the Full Episode
Watch the full episode of It’s Giving Health: Showing Up: Why Fatherhood Matters on Advance Community Health’s YouTube channel and join the conversation about the important role fathers play in raising healthy children and building stronger communities.
