The Sky's the Limit: Upending Beliefs About "Dis"abilities with Deborah Lagasse

In this first episode of Wild Peace, Deborah Lagasse shares insights into her extraordinary journey raising a son who has managed to shatter all conventional expectations about his autism. Her story will upend any limiting beliefs you might have about autism - or any other "dis"ability for that matter. Deb's son Tyler Lagasse began reading and writing at the age of two, but he was slower to talk and learn social skills. By the age of four he was diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder, a form of autism. Today at 31, Tyler has won 3 silver medals in golf - the elite division - at the Special Olympics USA games. He also holds 12 gold medals from Special Olympics Massachusetts and is a member of the organization's Hall of Fame. In 2007, he became a Special Olympics Global Messenger. Beyond sports he has accomplished as much. He co-authored a book with his mother, What Do You Say?: Autism with Character, engages in motivational speaking, and is working towards a bachelor's degree in earth, environmental and atmospheric sciences at UMass Lowell. Tyler's story of courage, heart and perseverance is truly amazing.  During this fascinating conversation, Deb and I discuss what it was like to raise Tyler. She explains how she approached the challenges and how she (and the whole family) were enlightened as a result. I walked away thinking she should be a motivational speaker, too!  To get the show notes and related resources, visit http://www.wildpeace.org

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