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  • Access to Reproductive Health Care: Autism and Intellectual Disability Edition

    Access to Reproductive Health Care: Autism and Intellectual Disability Edition
    2025/01/01
    SummaryIn this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism podcast, Lola Dada-Olley and her husband, Tosan Olley, discuss the complexities of navigating reproductive healthcare for their daughter, who is on the autism spectrum. They share their journey from recognizing the onset of puberty to preparing for their daughter's first period, emphasizing the importance of communication, family support, and collaboration with healthcare providers. The couple reflects on the emotional challenges and milestones they encountered, as well as the long-term considerations for their daughter's reproductive health.TakeawaysNavigating reproductive healthcare is crucial for children with autism.Communication about puberty can be challenging but necessary.Dads play an important role in discussions about reproductive health.Preparation for menstruation involves multiple therapy disciplines.Understanding sensory challenges is key in healthcare planning.Access to reproductive healthcare can significantly impact quality of life.Long-term planning is essential for children with special needs.Collaboration with healthcare providers is vital for effective care.Celebrating milestones is important in the parenting journey.Pre-decisioning helps in managing future healthcare needs.Chapters00:00 Navigating Reproductive Healthcare for Our Daughter02:51 Understanding Puberty and Its Implications11:10 Preparing for the First Period16:25 The Day It Happened20:14 Long-Term Considerations for Reproductive Health25:03 Celebrating Milestones and Future PlanningTranscriptLola Dada-Olley (00:01.395)Welcome, welcome everyone to the Not Your Mama's Autism podcast. I am back yet again with the hubster, the hubby, Tosan Olley. We are talking about a not so light topic about our daughter's reproductive healthcare and the decisions we are starting to make for her in hopes ofher living the highest quality of life possible. For those new to the podcast, we have an 11 -year -old daughter who's minimally verbal, on the autism spectrum, and intellectually disabled. So, this episode will walk through some traditionally seen as uncomfortable topics, things like periods, things like cramps.things like talking it through as a family for a child who has communication challenges. This is naturally a difficult conversation, whether or not your child can traditionally communicate or not. So, our daughter has a history of some sensory challenges associated with the way her autism manifests. So, once she turned 10,And we knew that that next phase was right around the corner. We had to really sit down and think about the type of options she would have, not only based on her autism, but quite frankly, based on her family history that we know of at least when it comes to reproductive health, our family on my side, at least part of my side of the family, we've had a history of fibroids, PCOS, difficult periods.how could that potentially look in a growing child who will one day become a young woman who may not be able to communicate things like pain in a traditional way. So, we are pulling back the covers on this so you all could see some of the conversations my husband and I have had, some of the conversations we've had with her healthcare providers and hopes.Lola Dada-Olley (02:24.707)that we help other families like ours and not just those families but the health care providers that are part of those villages as well. So with that in mind, let's get started. So, this all started when she was 11 now, is it when she was nine going into 10 or maybe 10?Tosan Olley (02:51.336)MmLola Dada-Olley (02:51.971)talk about the endocrinologist. So, we did a blood test on Alero and we sat in her office and she told us that based on the blood tests, puberty is amongst us.Tosan Olley (03:08.648)I think we rewind a little bit. Yes, we did the blood test, but we went into that conversation with the endocrinologist with a little bit at the back of our head that one study showed that puberty seems to be hidden earlier.And even though she was nine going on 10, it felt like, you know, this generation and the generation before and on, you every generation seems to be hidden a little bit earlier. We had noticed some changes in our body. We were trying to make the determination. it, you know, just chubby baby versus, you know, development?Lola Dada-Olley (03:50.211)Yeah.Tosan Olley (04:00.93)So we went in with a.We think we need to confirm, we need your help, we need your input and what have you. So that when she came, when the chronologist came, it was less like, shock. was more like, it's true. know, puberty, know, baby girl is now.Lola Dada-Olley (04:06.413)Yeah. Yeah.Lola Dada-Olley (04:26.935)Yeah, puberty is among us.Tosan Olley (04:34.22)baby woman? Baby lady, not wife woman?Lola Dada-Olley (04:36.191)Gosh, baby, baby. No, baby, baby. Yeah, definitely not quite woman, but she's on the path. She's definitely on the pathTosan Olley (04:46.439)Yeah, and you know, my head, I had a thought in my ...
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    29 分
  • Advocacy in Action: A Talk with Ms. Texas 2024 Annette Addo-Yobo

    Advocacy in Action: A Talk with Ms. Texas 2024 Annette Addo-Yobo
    2024/12/11
    In this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, host Lola Dada-Olley speaks with Annette Addo-Yobo, the first immigrant-born Miss Texas, about her journey from Ghana to the U.S., her advocacy for autism awareness, and the importance of representation. Annette shares her personal experiences as a sibling caregiver, the cultural stigma surrounding autism, and her aspirations to influence policy and support families navigating the challenges of autism. The conversation highlights the need for better resources, early intervention, and community support for families affected by autism.
    Takeaways
    • Annette's journey from Ghana to becoming Miss Texas is inspiring.
    • Representation in media and pageantry is crucial for marginalized communities.
    • Cultural stigma around autism can hinder family support and understanding.
    • Advocacy is a lifelong commitment, often born from personal experiences.
    • The SPAR Project aims to bridge gaps in autism awareness and resources.
    • Parentification can significantly impact the identity of sibling caregivers.
    • Mental health support is essential for caregivers navigating their roles.
    • Early intervention can change the trajectory of a child's development.
    • Advocacy in Washington, D.C. can lead to meaningful policy changes.
    • Community support is vital for families affected by autism.
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    49 分
  • Navigating the High School Transition: A Talk With My Son

    Navigating the High School Transition: A Talk With My Son
    2024/11/26
    In this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism podcast, host Lola Dada-Olley engages her son Fela in a heartfelt discussion about the transition from middle school to high school. They explore the various high school options available, the importance of extracurricular activities like band, and the challenges that come with academic rigor. Fela shares his personal experiences and offers advice to other students facing similar transitions, emphasizing the importance of hard work and resilience. The conversation highlights the growth and development that comes with navigating educational choices and personal interests.
    Takeaways
    • Choosing high schools is a significant decision for students.
    • Middle school serves as a preparatory phase for high school.
    • Extracurricular activities play a crucial role in student life.
    • Students should consider their interests when selecting a high school.
    • Academic rigor is important, but students should not fear challenges.
    • Transitioning can be daunting, but support from family helps.
    • It's normal to have concerns about moving to high school.
    • Students should embrace hard work as part of their education.
    • Making new friends is a key aspect of transitioning to high school.
    • Reflecting on past experiences can provide valuable insights for future transitions.
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    18 分
  • Workplace Neuroinclusion Strategy: Some Lessons Learned

    Workplace Neuroinclusion Strategy: Some Lessons Learned
    2024/10/07

    In this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism podcast, Lola Dada-Olley interviews Danielle Meadows, an executive director at JPMorgan Chase, about the importance of disability employment and the initiatives taken by the Business Solution Team (BEST) to promote neuro-inclusion. They discuss the evolution of the BEST program, common misconceptions about disability inclusion, the challenges faced in the employment landscape, and the significance of public policy in supporting individuals with disabilities. The conversation highlights the success stories of employees and the role of job coaches in fostering an inclusive work environment.


    Takeaways


    • Disability Employment Awareness Month is crucial for promoting inclusion.
    • The BEST program focuses on neuro-inclusion strategies globally.
    • Misconceptions about disability often hinder employment opportunities.
    • Transportation remains a significant barrier for individuals with disabilities.
    • Public policy needs to adapt to support working individuals with disabilities.
    • Job coaching is essential for success in the workplace.
    • Collaboration among organizations enhances disability employment efforts.
    • Recognition from institutions like the UN validates the program's success.
    • Success stories demonstrate the potential of individuals with disabilities.
    • The program has grown significantly since its inception in 2019.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Disability Employment Awareness Month

    05:11 Misconceptions About Disability Inclusion

    09:29 Recognition and Growth of the BEST Program

    12:33 Challenges in Disability Employment

    17:26 The Importance of Public Policy

    21:46 The Role of Job Coaches

    26:54 Success Stories and Business Outcomes
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    32 分
  • Reintegrating Our Daughter Into School Life

    Reintegrating Our Daughter Into School Life
    2024/09/24

    In this episode, Lola Dada-Olley and her husband Tosan discuss their journey with their daughter Alero, who is on the autism spectrum. They share their decision-making process regarding Alero's education, including the challenges of navigating special education services, the impact of the pandemic, and the importance of adaptability in parenting. They reflect on their choice to temporarily withdraw Alero from school for therapy and the subsequent decision to reintegrate her into a supportive school environment. The couple emphasizes the significance of building a supportive community and learning from others' experiences in similar situations.
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    34 分
  • Back To School: Embracing Technology and Student-Centered Learning

    Back To School: Embracing Technology and Student-Centered Learning
    2024/08/31
    In this episode, Dr. Kim Floyd, a professor of special education and an innovator, discusses her evolution in the education space and her role in standing up a center focused on assistive technology with people with disabilities. She shares her journey into special education, the development of a multidisciplinary approach, and the importance of trauma-informed practices in education.
    Dr. Floyd also highlights the unique challenges and strengths of rural communities in special education and the work of the American Council on Rural Special Education. She discusses the Center for Collaborative Assistive Technology Education Lab and the exciting projects coming out of the lab. Finally, she explores how assistive technology can level the playing field in education and therapy.
    The conversation explores the importance of assistive technology in education and the challenges faced in implementing it. It highlights the need for personalized and inclusive classrooms that cater to the diverse learning needs of students. The role of AI in leveling the playing field is discussed, acknowledging both the benefits and potential drawbacks. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of historical and cultural awareness in education and the need for teachers to be resilient, empathetic, and adaptable. The American Council of Rural Special Education (ACRES) is mentioned as a resource for further information.

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    1 時間 13 分
  • Addressing Daily Life Challenges with Revolutionary Tools: A Talk With Nadia Hamilton

    Addressing Daily Life Challenges with Revolutionary Tools: A Talk With Nadia Hamilton
    2024/02/12

    Growing up alongside a sibling with autism can transform your life's blueprint in the most unexpected ways. in this episode, we're joined by the remarkable Nadia Hamilton, who shares the touching saga of her brother, Troy, and how his journey on the autism spectrum has awakened a legacy of empowerment and innovation. Nadia's candid recount of the joys and hurdles they faced together unfolds into the creation of a transformative tool - Magnus cards - that now aids individuals with autism and/or cognitive disabilities to navigate the complexities of daily life with greater independence. Our conversation is a celebration of sibling love and the spirit that can give rise to social entrepreneurship with a profound purpose.

    As you tune in, you'll be captivated by stories that not only pull at the heartstrings, but also spotlight the monumental shifts in accessibility and inclusivity championed by visionaries like Nadia. Discover the compelling impact of the Magnus Mode app, designed to provide free, visual, step-by-step guides for those in the neurodiverse community, and learn how the Disability Experience training program is reshaping perspectives in corporate corridors. This isn't just an episode; it's a heartfelt tribute to Troy and others like him, who inspire a world that embraces every spectrum of human diversity with open arms and minds. Join us for an episode that weaves a narrative of hope, understanding, and the tangible change that comes from one sister's unwavering devotion.

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    37 分
  • Healthcare in America: New Year; New(ish) Expenses

    Healthcare in America: New Year; New(ish) Expenses
    2024/01/30

    Every January, my husband Tosan and I brace ourselves for the impact of the 'January reset' on our family's finances. As parents of a child with complex medical needs, we're no strangers to the avalanche of medical bills that come with insurance deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums starting anew. Our latest episode offers an intimate conversation where we peel back the curtain on the financial challenges that families like ours face, diving into the intricacies of insurance policies in Texas, and the relentless vigilance it takes to ensure our daughter's healthcare needs are met.

    Join us for a heart-to-heart about the proactive financial strategies we've put in place, like leveraging Health Savings Accounts and planning for a multi-year safety net. As we exchange stories and strategies, Tosan and I reveal how we've navigated the stormy seas of healthcare costs and even seeking healthcare grants and exchanges when money was tight. We aim to empower and offer solace by sharing our journey, reinforcing the importance of resilience and the strength found in taking it one day at a time.

    https://notyourmamasautism.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/notyourmamasautism/
    https://www.facebook.com/NotYourMamasAutism/
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    22 分