Episode #34: Super Dadvocate Tom Petrik

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In today’s podcast, we are talking with advocate, Tom Petrik. We selected Tom to be our 2019 Dadvocate. Tom is a teacher assistant in special education, a coach for Special Olympics, a recreational coach,. His third son has an official diagnosis of Fragile X.

 

 

In this conversation, you’ll hear the following:

* Why Tom doesn’t have a problem advocating.

* Why he feels it’s important to advocate and what other dads need to know.

* What he wishes he knew earlier about raising a child with special needs.

* He believes we’re at a specific tipping point right now with inclusion.

* The two words Tom would like everyone in the special needs community to hear.

The key message: You can do this!

Actionable advice:

Find out what programs and supports are available from your state, every state is different.

Sign up early, many programs or services have long waiting lists.

Make sure to set future plans up in advance.

 

Links or articles mentioned in this podcast:

Parenting Special Needs Magazine Facebook Page

Parenting Special Needs Magazine – Support Group

What is Fragile X

Medicaid Waiver by State