Finding Happy The Podcast

I think it’s fair to say we’re working hard to create disability awareness. But a lot of us didn’t plan to start this advocacy journey. We started it when we were handed a baby or a diagnosis. We’re here and we’re learning.

In today’s episode, I’m excited to chat with Larkin O’Leary, down syndrome mama and co-founder of the Common Ground Society.

Larkin is compassionately educating the community about the world of disabilities through assemblies for audiences from birth to college.

Check out the full show notes at findinghappythepodcast.com/episodes/larkinoleary

Though so many of the mamas in this community have experiences in common, no two stories are exactly the same. This is why it’s so critical to gather together and have the space to share our stories - and why I wanted you to hear from blogger, and children’s book author, Amy Webb.

Amy’s daughter Lamp (more on her name in the episode) was born with limb differences. What is uniquely challenging for Lamp is that her disability has no impact on her mental development. But because children have such little exposure to a child with limb differences, connecting is so exhausting.

Discover how advocacy has been a messy and grace-filled road for Amy and why writing children’s books have been a perfect way to engage in this important conversation.

Check out the full show notes at findinghappythepodcast.com/episodes/amywebb

Registration is open for Stronger Together! https://sineadquinn.lpages.co/stronger-together/

Michelle Islas' second daughter Dani surprisingly arrived with Down’s Syndrome and despite being told difficult it would be, a nurse with an adult sister with down’s syndrome inspired Michelle that her daughter could do anything. She stepped away from her career to help navigate her daughter’s care and made tough decisions to find the best education and programs for her care. Dani learned about meditation and yoga in school and Michelle realized how well these skills were working for her daughter, and she started to learn more about other complimentary therapies. She experienced a Reiki treatment and knew she needed to learn more. I love how her Reiki practice has grown and is infused in all parts of her life, from her coaching and consulting to her care for her family. https://www.instagram.com/_michelle_islas_/ https://www.michelleislas.com/

This first episode is unforgettable! The birth of baby Ami was like any other for Amber, she already had 4 children! When she set eyes on her baby, she knew the feelings she had during her pregnancy were true and baby Ami had Down Syndrome. Amber experienced complete compassion and support from her midwife team and the absolute opposite from a doctor who put nothing but limits on her child, all in the first days of her life. Their birth photographer captured their family so beautifully, the story of Ami’s birth was picked up by mainstream media, as well as Amber’s forgiveness of the doctor who saw nothing but negatives. IG

https://www.instagram.com/justwhenyouthinkshesdown/?hl=en

People magazine

https://people.com/human-interest/amber-rojas-ami-daughter-down-syndrome/

Buzz Feed

https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/theresatamkins/birth-photos-capture-down-syndrome

Pop Sugar

https://www.popsugar.com/family/Mom-Letter-Daughter-Down-Syndrome-Doctor-45568570

Dear Doctor

https://yoocanfind.com/Story/1641/dont-let-the-doctors-set-your-limitations

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QW7qTwKEvjM&feature=youtu.be

Getting an official diagnosis for a child with a disability is an intense moment. When your emotions are paired with a lack of resources or misinformation, it can be even more isolating.

In this episode, I’m chatting with Jen Jacob, founder of the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network. Her organization walks closely with parents at the time of diagnosis to inform, advocate for, and empower parents on their new journey.

Check out the full show notes at findinghappythepodcast.com/episodes/jenjacob