🧠A Journey Through the Brain, Parenthood & Resilience
The brain is far more complex than most of us realize—and yet, we’re taught so little about it. I’ve faced three major life events, each deeply tied to brain function. These moments have shaped my understanding, my strength, and my purpose.
đź’” My Three Life-Altering Experiences
1. Early-Onset Alzheimer’s
My strong and compassionate stepfather, Mark, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at just 50 years old.
2. Autism Diagnosis
In 2015, my daughter was diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum at around 2½ years old.
3. Encephalitis & Meningitis
On February 21, 2016, I was struck by HSV-1 Encephalitis and Meningitis—a rare illness that causes brain inflammation. I was rushed from Ellensburg to Seattle and nearly died. Recovery was long and complex, and my perspective on life has shifted dramatically.
✨ Why I’m Writing This Blog
I want to help others find the resources, services, and support they need. I’ve learned that simply knowing you’re not alone can be life-changing. That feeling of connection is something we all crave, especially when life throws us curveballs
👩‍👧 Parenting on the Spectrum
Parenthood is a journey filled with highs and lows. But raising a child on the autism spectrum—especially as a single parent—can sometimes feel impossible.
I’m a proud mother of three beautiful children. My two oldest are grown and thriving in Ellensburg, Washington. I left that lovely small town in 2016 to seek better services for myself and my youngest daughter, Brooklyn.
Brooklyn came into my life as a surprise in December 2012—the best surprise I’ve ever had. Her smile and hugs are my daily motivation.
🧠How My Illness Changed Me
You might wonder: what does my illness have to do with autism?
The answer is simple—my experience gave me a deeper understanding of the brain, its capabilities, and its limitations. I now live with a few cognitive challenges that require daily adjustments, but they haven’t broken me. If anything, they’ve made me more empathetic and patient with my daughter’s frustrations and needs.
🧩 Understanding the Autism Spectrum
Autism and Asperger’s fall under a broad spectrum of behavioral and developmental challenges. When someone says a child is “on the spectrum,” they’re referring to a unique set of traits that affect how that child interacts with the world.
The brain controls every aspect of our being—so it’s kind of important to understand it, right?
đź“š What I Offer
My professional background includes:
- 15 years in banking
- Ownership of a flooring company and coffee house
- Deep community involvement including United Way and Chamber of Commerce
- Now also a licensed caregiver through Washington State. Helping other parents with special needs children. It’s rewarding but tiring.
But the most meaningful part of my resume is my lived experience in the autism world.
Resources I’ll Share:
- Autism support groups
- IEP management
- Speech therapy
- Vocational services
- Sensory integration therapy
- Assistive technology
- ADHD medication management
- Childcare services for children with special needs
I’ve also undergone physical therapy for both nerve damage and brain rehabilitation—lessons I believe everyone should learn.
🌱 Finding Purpose Again
I’ve always been a busy bee, and resting my mind was never a priority. Back then, I had a clear purpose—aside from raising my children, of course. Now, I hope this blog becomes a new purpose: a way to reach others, share what I’ve learned, and offer the help you might be searching for.
Through stories of Brooklyn and me—both past and present—I’ll share experiences that may surprise you, make you laugh, bring tears, and hopefully help you feel less alone. You’re not alone. We all feel isolated sometimes, but I promise: you’re not. Here for each other!