Hello!!!
I also raised a child with autism. So I understand what you're going through. I'm passionate about sharing what I learned about navigating parenthood in this space, and getting my son to a very manageable place. It hasn't been an easy road, but it's possible.
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Let me tell you my story. . . .
I diagnosed Hassan with autism myself at age 5, when he was a student at the daycare center where I was the director. He was staring at ceiling lights with his head cocked to the side, rocking back and forth, flapping his hands, and humming. And while he was able to talk, he was unable to answer ‘WH’ questions. It was frustrating because his pediatrician never identified it, although I brought my concerns to her throughout his toddler years. Learning how to support him, understanding his unique needs, and celebrate his strengths has been one of my life’s greatest lessons. Navigating the system, getting his schools and the state programs to cooperate, while advocating for him was difficult. Alongside him, I raised my older son, ensuring both had the love and guidance they needed to thrive.
After struggling with my own health issues, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia shortly after Hassan was born. Since then I've had countless medical procedures, 16 surgeries and have been declared legally disabled.
Life took an unexpected turn when I found myself going through a divorce, which left me to navigate single motherhood while juggling the responsibilities of parenting and pursuing my own dreams. During those years, I made the decision to go back to school and finish my bachelor’s degree.​ Although I studied Child Development and Psychology at Clark Atlanta University in my 20's, when I turned 40 I received a full scholarship to Strayer University when appearing on the Steve Harvey Show for being a single Mom in business. I graduated Magna Cum Laude, with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, with a concentration in management.
​​Prior to my own diagnosis and multiple surgeries, I worked as the Assistant Director of Outreach at the University Of Pittsburgh, Center For Environmental Oncology, where I studied under a renowned epidemiologist at Shadyside Hospital in Pittsburgh PA. My primary job was to go into the community and teach about cancer risks in the areas of diet, and environmental substances that effect our body on a daily basis. As a result, I learned much about how the body works, how chemicals effect the body, and I used that knowledge to make decisions on what my children would and wouldn't be exposed to. Especially my son with autism. What I realized is that when I minimized exposure to the abundance of environmental toxins, his cognitive and physical behaviors improved! While at the Cancer Institute, I also contributed to Dr. Davis' book, "The Secret History of the War On Cancer".
Since then I've learned a lot about life, Motherhood, and business, became a published author of two books, and have met and married the love of my life! My published books can be found on Amazon. They are: In Transition, and When Dating Works.
​​Currently I reside in Atlanta, Georgia with my amazing husband (of 7 years), David, and Hassan is now age 25. He has graduated from a 2 year certificate program at Georgia State University, for young adults with special needs. My other son is now 28 and has a bachelors' degree in chemical science, a masters from MIT in education, he's been teaching high school Biology for the last couple years, and will enter into medical school soon. I also have two awesome step-sons, ages 30 & 32.​​​
