We want to start by giving you a trigger warning; this episode could be hard to listen to and may evoke some big emotions. We ask that you listen to this episode with an open heart and mind. There is a percentage of our community who have children with what may be considered more profound autism. In this journey, these parents may have to make decisions for the safety of not only themselves but also their child, in order for them to flourish in this life.

Today we get personal with a beautiful mother from our very own community. Emely Zavala opens up and shares about her journey with her son, Justin. She shares this story in hopes that the decisions families like hers have had to make are not taboo or a hush-hush subject. She shares to bring awareness and education to other families who might be in a similar situation and also to those of us with autistic children who will never have to make the decisions she’s made.

Please listen to this episode with the realization that you're only hearing a very small part of a very big story. Remember that we are a judgment-free community and we come to learn, grow, and support one another to ultimately educate this world on our beautiful community bringing acceptance and love to our children.

“This was one of the darkest moments in my life. I felt like a terrible person, the one person who should be protecting him and I couldn't even do that.” ~ Emely Zavala

 

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