Embracing the Unexpected of Life w/ An Autistic Loved One

Whether you have an autistic loved one in your family, you suspect one of your children being on the spectrum or you just want to learn some truths about the topic, this episode is one not to be missed. Hosts Dustin and Brandon speak with Leigh Merryday Porch, the author of the blog Flappiness Is and the book The Scenic Route, Embracing the Detours, Roblox and Unexpected Joys of Raising an Autistic Child. The discussion touches on topics such as family support, the challenges of raising an autistic child, and the importance of getting a diagnosis. Leigh shares her personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the need for acceptance, understanding, and love. The conversation also explores the concept of neurodiversity and the evolving terminology surrounding autism.

Leigh talks about what has been the most therapeutic experience for her and her work with autism, she emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and the benefits it brings in terms of accessing services and support. She advises parents to educate themselves about the different kinds of diagnoses and to advocate for their child's needs. Leigh also highlights the need for teamwork and collaboration with schools, while acknowledging the challenges and limitations they face due to lack of funding. At the end of the interview Leigh shares a heartfelt poem about the complexities of a hypothetical cure for autism and the love she has for her children as they are.

Sound Bites

"Your family is who's there to support you, your family is who is there to love you unconditionally."

"Her book has been my Bible. It's made me break down. It's also built me up, helped me realize how much I really need to do, not only for my son, but for other autistic people."

"Autism is part of a spectrum of neurodiversity, where individuals may think, behave, and perceive differently."

"The most therapeutic has been the private messages that have come in to me."

"Two years old is approximately the time in which autism is going to become evident to others."

Chapters

07:04 Icebreakers: Describing Leigh Merryday Porch

12:03 The Inspiration Behind the Blog 'Flappinesses'

15:20 Understanding Autism: The Spectrum and Terminology

28:01 Writing the Book and Becoming an Autism Specialist

31:56 Therapeutic Experiences and Surprising Reactions

44:58 Understanding the Concerns of Parents with Autistic Children

46:26 The Importance of Listening to Autistic Adults

48:14 Dispelling Myths about Autism Meltdowns

50:33 The Link Between Vaccines and Autism

52:20 The Complexity of Autism and Genetic Factors

53:45 Correlation vs. Causation in Autism Research

58:06 The Importance of Early Intervention and Communication

01:17:30 The Meaning of Family

01:21:01 If you were "cured" tomorrow poem

For more on Leigh:

leighmerrydayporch.com

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