When Kristy Mickelsen, a romance author turned fierce advocate, first noticed the early signs of autism in her children, she embarked on a journey many parents can relate to—one filled with determination, love, and the pursuit of understanding.  Our heartfelt conversation with Kristi in today's episode is not just a story of parenting autistic children, but a deeper look into the fabric of family, advocacy, and the power of relentless support.  She captures the essence of her fight against a system that underestimated her kids, revealing a mother's unwavering dedication to altering the trajectory of their lives, even if it meant starting her own school to cater to their educational needs. Navigating life with children on the autism spectrum brings its unique set of challenges and triumphs, as Kristy eloquently illustrates through the intricacies of her son's sensory processing disorder and her daughter's auditory processing difficulties.  The family dynamic, punctuated by adaptability and education, is a testament to the resilience inherent in families like Kristy's.  They've turned obstacles into opportunities for growth, and the close bond between her children showcases the beauty and depth of sibling relationships formed under such circumstances.  Kristy's narrative encourages us to educate ourselves about autism and shows us the profound impact that knowledge and empathy can have on changing perceptions and strengthening connections. As we part ways with Kristy Mickelsen, her story leaves us inspired, reminding us that change often starts with a single individual's experience.  As listeners, we're privy to the daily realities for families with autistic children, from sensory-sensitive lifestyle adaptations to the nurturing of special interests that provide solace and joy.  Kristy's journey underscores the significance of changing one life at a time, and as your host, I am humbled to share these transformative tales with you.  If Kristy's story moves you, know that there are many more voices waiting to be heard, and we invite you to continue joining us as we uncover them together in future episodes. https://tonymantor.com https://Facebook.com/tonymantor https://instagram.com/tonymantor https://twitter.com/tonymantor https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)