Support Systems Mini Series Episode #2 - Traci Pizzano

In today’s episode, Schuyler speaks with Traci Pizzano, mother of three, including Dario Pizzano from Episode 85. Traci, a Multiple Sclerosis (MS) warrior, inspired Dario to create Mission Stadiums for MS, a nonprofit supporting MS research and families affected by the condition.

Throughout the episode, Schuyler and Traci discuss key moments in Dario’s mental health journey and how Traci supported him through similar struggles, including panic attacks. Dario’s mental health challenges following retirement from professional baseball helped him understand other peoples’ mental health states better, which increased communication about mental health within his family, who are some of his most important supporters. We also explore the difficulties parents face when a child's identity is tied to sports, and Traci reflects on how she had not expected the challenges Dario faced after retirement. This is a great episode for all parents who want to support their kids’ mental health, but there are gems here for everyone!