Together Through It: Wisdom from Unexpected Journeys

“It’s not what happened to you, it’s about what you do next.”
– Alex Montoya

In this inspiring episode of Together Through It: Wisdom from Unexpected Journeys, Angela sits down with Alex Montoya, an Olympic Torch Carrier, published author, TEDx and international speaker, disability advocate, founder of the Alex Montoya Foundation, and proud Notre Dame graduate.

Alex shares his remarkable journey of resilience, perseverance, and purpose. Born with a limb difference and having navigated challenges related to disability and identity throughout his life, Alex offers powerful insights into overcoming adversity, embracing differences, and creating meaningful change in the world.

Together, Angela and Alex discuss disability inclusion, leadership, advocacy, and the importance of choosing how we respond to life's unexpected challenges. Alex's story is a powerful reminder that while we cannot always control what happens to us, we can choose what comes next.

 Resources 

Alex Montoya Foundation
Non-profit organization raising awareness of issues related to disabilities and immigration.
http://alexmontoya.org/

A-Motivational Communications
Creating lasting solutions for clients through motivational presentations that inspire individuals and organizations to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
https://a-motivational.com/

Swinging for the Fences: Alex Montoya at TEDxTijuana
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltANdJwVifs

See the Good by Alex Montoya
A motivational book sharing Alex's perspective on resilience, gratitude, and finding opportunity in life's challenges.

Alex Masters the Monkey Bars by Alex Montoya
A children's book that encourages perseverance, self-confidence, and overcoming obstacles, inspired by Alex's own journey.

Connect with Alex:
Website: https://a-motivational.com/
Foundation: ⁠https://alexmontoya.org/

#TogetherThroughIt #AlexMontoya #DisabilityAdvocacy #TEDxSpeaker

What happens after high school for young adults with disabilities?

In this episode of Together Through It: Wisdom from Unexpected Journeys, Angela sits down with longtime friend Dr. Bridget Lueken, educator, consultant, disability advocate, and mom of eight children, three of whom are autistic.

Angela and Bridget first met nearly 20 years ago in a support group for mothers of children with special needs. What began as a writing group filled with laughter, tears, and shared resources grew into lifelong friendships and a tradition of gathering after meetings for dinner and conversation.

Bridget shares her family's journey through autism, ADHD, diabetes, seizures, and raising children with diverse strengths and challenges. Together, Angela and Bridget discuss one of the most important topics facing families today: the transition from high school to adult life.

For families just beginning their journey, Bridget offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and a powerful reminder that there are no "special" parents. There are simply people doing the best they can, learning as they go, and helping the next family in line.

Looking for individualized guidance on planning for life after high school?

Dr. Lueken is the founder of Empower Consulting, where she helps families navigate the often-overwhelming transition from adolescence to adulthood for individuals with disabilities. Drawing on her experience as an educator, advocate, and parent, Bridget helps families identify goals, understand available resources, and create practical plans for employment, education, independent living, and community engagement.

🔗 Learn more about Empower Consulting and connect with Bridget through her website: empowerconsulting.co

Other resources mentioned in this episode:

Indiana Children's Special Health Care Services (CSHCS) provides supplemental medical coverage to help families of children ages birth to 21 years who have serious, chronic medical conditions. The program can help pay for treatment related to the child’s condition for those who meet the program's financial and medical criteria.https://www.in.gov/health/cshcs/

First Steps is Indiana’s early intervention program for children birth to age 3 who would benefit from additional support to meet their developmental milestones. Anyone can refer a child to First Steps https://indianafirststeps.org/

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain meaningful employment. Services may include career exploration, job coaching, workplace accommodations, training, transportation assistance, and support with employment goals. https://www.in.gov/fssa/ddars/brs/vocational-rehabilitation-employment/ (Indiana)

The Medicaid Family Supports Waiver helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live as independently as possible in their homes and communities. Services may include respite care, community-based supports, therapies, employment services, and assistance with daily living skills. https://www.in.gov/medicaid/members/home-and-community-based-services/family-supports-waiver/

Erskine Green Training Institute is a postsecondary training program that helps individuals with disabilities develop job skills, independent living skills, and confidence for adulthood. Participants receive hands-on career training, gain real-world work experience, and prepare for competitive employment while living in a supportive environment. https://www.erskinegreeninstitute.org/

Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Beyond athletics, participants build confidence, develop friendships, improve physical fitness, and gain valuable opportunities for inclusion in their communities. https://www.specialolympics.org/

What would you do if a medication prescribed to help your child caused a rare and life-threatening reaction that changed your family forever?

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Together Through It: Wisdom from Unexpected Journeys, Angela Paxton sits down with Tasha Tolliver, founder of the DRESS Syndrome Foundation, to share the story of her daughter, Izzy. Through love, heartbreak, resilience, and advocacy, Tasha opens up about her family's journey with DRESS Syndrome—a rare and often misunderstood drug reaction that many people have never heard of until it impacts someone they love.

Tasha shares the joys of motherhood, the milestones and victories she celebrated with Izzy, and how those experiences inspired her mission to raise awareness and support other families. Her story is a reminder to cherish every moment, celebrate every victory, and recognize the profound impact one life can have on so many others.

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, healthcare professional, or someone who simply wants to learn more about this rare condition, this conversation will inform, inspire, and stay with you long after it ends.

If this episode inspires you to learn more, advocate for a loved one, or simply cherish the everyday moments, we encourage you to explore the resources below and help spread awareness about DRESS Syndrome.

🔹 What is DRESS Syndrome? DRESS stands for Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms, a rare and potentially life-threatening drug-induced hypersensitivity reaction. It is also known as DIHS (Drug-Induced Hypersensitivity Syndrome).

🔹 Know the Warning Signs Medication + Fever + Rash = Suspect DRESS

🔹 DRESS Syndrome Foundation https://www.dresssyndromefoundation.org/

🔹 National DRESS Syndrome Day Thursday, July 16, 2026

🔹 Vanderbilt Center for Drug Safety and Immunology

The Vanderbilt University Medical Center Center for Drug Safety and Immunology is a global leader in research on severe drug reactions, including DRESS Syndrome. Founded and directed by Dr. Elizabeth Phillips, the center works to identify genetic risk factors, improve diagnosis, develop prevention strategies, and better understand the long-term effects experienced by DRESS survivors. Vanderbilt researchers are also leading studies to help physicians recognize DRESS earlier and improve patient outcomes.

Learn more: https://medsites.vumc.org/cdsi

Interested in participating in DRESS research? Vanderbilt is currently enrolling participants in its DRESS Survivor Study, which aims to better understand the genetic factors and long-term complications associated with DRESS Syndrome.

🔹 Related Reading https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2024/07/27/fatal-drug-reaction-acne-dress/

#TogetherThroughIt #DRESSSyndrome #DRESSSyndromeDay #DRESSaware #VoicesForDRESS #HopeAfterLoss #RareDisease

Connect With Us!

If this episode touched you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may benefit from hearing Tasha's story. Together, we can raise awareness and help families feel less alone on their unexpected journeys.

In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and fellow advocate, Leslie Holleman, who shares her family’s powerful journey to find answers for her son, Chris. What began as uncertainty and questions ultimately led to a diagnosis of GLUT1 deficiency, a rare neurological condition.

Leslie’s story is one of persistence, fierce advocacy, and hope—especially for families who are still searching for clarity and connection.

As always, this conversation reminds us: “It’s not about the years in your life, but the life in your years.”If this episode resonates with you, or you know someone navigating an unexpected journey, I hope you’ll give it a listen and share it.

🔔 Make sure to hit Follow on Spotify so you never miss an episode—and turn on your notifications!

📚 Resources mentioned in this episode:
• Learn more about GLUT1 Deficiency: https://www.g1dfoundation.org/what-is-glut1-deficiency/
• 2026 GLUT1 Scientific & Family Summit: https://www.g1dfoundation.org/2026-summit/

#TogetherThroughIt #RareDiseaseAwareness #GLUT1Deficiency #Advocacy #ParentingJourney #HopeAndResilience #PodcastCommunity

When seven‑year‑old Isabelle became mysteriously ill, her family had no idea how dramatically their lives were about to change. In this episode, Isabelle and her mom, Amanda, share their experience navigating a rare diagnosis of ANCA -associated vasculitis (GPA), sudden kidney failure, and two intense years of pediatric dialysis.

Amanda reflects on the early warning signs, the shock of diagnosis, and the emotional toll of becoming a full‑timecaregiver while learning to live inside a medical world few families ever expect to enter. Isabelle shares her perspective with remarkable insight and humor—talking about missed swim parties, hospital beds that feel like “trash bags,” and the joy of finally returning to school and everyday life.

The conversation explores advocacy, isolation, faith, and the critical role of medical teams and community support. Amanda also speaks candidly about organ donation—both living and deceased—and how one extraordinary donor changed Isabelle’s life forever. This episode is a testament to resilience, the power of connection, and the reminder that even when the journey is long, healing and hope are possible.

Resources:

Vasculitis Foundation https://vasculitisfoundation.org/ Support, education, and connection for individuals and families affected by vasculitis, including pediatric resources and national conferences.

National Kidney Foundation https://www.kidney.org/ Information on kidney disease, dialysis, transplantation, and patient and caregiver support.

Living Organ Donation Information https://www.organdonor.gov/learn/process/living-donation Learn more about becoming a living donor for organs such as a kidney or part of a liver, and how living donation can save lives.

Donate Life Kentucky Trust https://www.donatelifeky.org/ Education and advocacy around organ, eye, and tissue donation, including how to register and talk with your family about your decision.

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#vasculitis #kidneytransplant #organdonor #dialysis

On today's episode, I am joined by a very special guest,my mother, Pepper LaPaglia. Together, we share our family’s unexpected journey with our youngest daughter, what it’s been like to walk through it side by side as mother and daughter, and the invaluable grandparent perspective along the way.

Becoming a grandmother to a granddaughter with special needs took her on an emotional journey she never expected, one that began with confusion and grief and grew into something deeply meaningful. Over time, she learned that her role was not to fix anything, but to offer unconditional love and to show up in every way she could. She found joy in small victories, pride in her granddaughter’s unique way of communicating, and patience she didn’t know she had. Supporting her own child as a parent became just as important as supporting her granddaughter, strengthening the entire family. By learning about the diagnosis and adapting her expectations, she discovered a new sense of purpose. This podcast shares her story of acceptance, growth, and the extraordinary bond between a grandmother and her granddaughter.

Kim shares the story of her daughter who was born with a cleft lip and later in life was diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental condition. With the help of caring doctors, supportive teachers, and other families who walked alongside them, they found their way forward together.

Kim talked about her daughter attending Camp About Face from the ages of 10-18. The summer camp provides children who were born with cleft lip or another craniofacial anomaly the chance to be themselves, make new friendships and build lasting skills that lead to a lifetime of success. Campers participate in challenging, fun and therapeutic recreational activities that are designed to boost confidence and teach self-reliance. For more information, visit https://www.rileychildrens.org/support-services/camp-about-face

Laura and Bob share the story of their youngest son and their family’s journey with autism. With honesty and warmth, they reflect on the challenges, the steady love that carried them, and the support that helped them keep going. Their message is simple and powerful: hope can grow, even in the most unexpected places.

Today, you heard our guests mention several programs for children with disabilities. They vary widely by state, but can help parents and caregivers access services for their children. 

Understanding Early Childhood Supports & Disability Services (U.S.) 

1. Birth‑to‑3 / Early Intervention Program

This program provides services to infants and toddlers with developmental delays or diagnosed conditions. These programs are federally required under the U.S. Department of Education’s Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), but are run by each state. 

Common services: 

• Developmental evaluations 

• Speech, occupational, and physical therapy 

• Family coaching and support 

• Services provided in natural settings (home, daycare) 

Indiana example: 

• First Steps (Indiana) – Indiana’s Birth‑to‑3 system, serving children from birth until their 3rd birthday. 

How to find your state’s program: 

• CDC Early Intervention directory:  https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/early-intervention/contact-information-by-state.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/parents/state-text.html  

• Your state’s health or family services department website 

2. Developmental Preschool (Ages 3–5) 

Once a child turns three, responsibility for services typically shifts from Early Intervention to the public school system under IDEA Part B. 

Schools can provide: 

• Evaluations at no cost to families 

• Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) 

• Developmental preschool or special education services 

• Related therapies during the school day 

Important to know: 

• Eligibility and program structure vary by school district 

• Services are educationally based, not medical 

• Parents do not need a medical diagnosis to request an evaluation 

Where to start: 

• Your local public school district’s special education department 

• State Department of Education special education pages 

 3. Medicaid Waivers 

Medicaid waivers allow states to provide long‑term services and supports to children with disabilities or complex medical needs who might not otherwise qualify for Medicaid based on income alone. 

What services may be covered: 

• In‑home nursing or personal care 

• Therapies (speech, OT, PT, behavioral supports) 

• Medical equipment and supplies 

• Respite care and family supports 

Why they vary by state: 
Each state designs its own waivers, including eligibility rules, covered services, and waitlists. 

State‑by‑state resource: 

• Kids’ Waivers – https://www.kidswaivers.org 
  A national, parent‑friendly site that explains children’s Medicaid waivers and links directly to each state’s programs, eligibility criteria, and application steps. 

In this first episode of Together Through It, I’m joined by my husband, David, to share our family’s own unexpected journey. We open up about our youngest daughter’s autism diagnosis, how it changed the path we thought we were on, and the ways we learned, grew, and found support along the way. If you’ve ever faced a challenge, you didn’t see coming, we hope our story offers comfort, encouragement, and the reminder that you’re not walking this path alone.