TrailBLAZER: Jacki Edry on Not Being Your Pain

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Jacki Edry, author, mother of neurodivergent children, and brain tumor survivor, for a deeply moving conversation about resilience, identity, and advocacy. Jackie opens up about her early life, her evolving relationship with Judaism, and her intimate understanding of autism and neurodiversity.

She challenges conventional approaches to autism treatment, championing empathy and individualized care. Jacki also sheds light on the often-misunderstood Irlen Syndrome and its hidden effects on learning and perception. From navigating the emotional and physical toll of brain surgery to finding strength through faith and gratitude, this episode is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to transform adversity into purpose.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone seeking inspiration, Jacki’s story will leave you empowered to see challenges through a new lens; and help others do the same.

Sound Bites:

"Everything happens for a reason."

"Faith is what kept you going." 

"It's not teaching, it's training."

 "Autism is like technical difficulty."

 "Nobody sent them for the test."

"Get them tested for Irlen." "

I woke up in the ICU."

"I learned to appreciate everything."

"Pain is not my identity."

Resources

Jacki's book: .css-j9qmi7{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:1rem;margin-top:2.8rem;width:100%;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:start;justify-content:start;padding-left:5rem;}@media only screen and (max-width: 599px){.css-j9qmi7{padding-left:0;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;}}.css-j9qmi7 svg{fill:#27292D;}.css-j9qmi7 .eagfbvw0{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;color:#27292D;}