In this episode, Rashidah speaks with Marlene Soto-Riera, disability advocate, author, and founder of Helping Swans Co. Marlene shares her journey as a mother and grandmother of children with autism, her mission to build inclusive communities, and how she made history by organizing Newton County, Georgia’s first-ever Autism Awareness and Inclusion Event.What we discuss:00:00 Introduction and Background00:57 AJ's Early Challenges and Advocacy04:17 Navigating the Unknown: Emotional Journey08:54 The Diagnosis: Coffin-Siris Syndrome12:36 Finding Community and Support16:01 The Role of Faith and Determination18:43 Balancing Family Dynamics24:33 Grandmother's Perspective on Autism Advocacy27:24 Navigating Family Dynamics and Guilt30:29 Understanding Guilt and Its Evolution33:35 The Role of a Grandparent in Advocacy38:36 Learning from Experience: A Guide for Parents44:42 Advice for Grandparents: Being Present and Supportive50:13 Empowerment Through Advocacy and Self-BeliefIf you found Marlene's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit!Connect with Marlene:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momadvocatemarlene/Tik Tok: momadvocatemarleneFOLLOW US:Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcastYouTube: www.youtube.com/theabmpodcast

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