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April 17, 2025 29 mins
  • Are you struggling to find support and resources as a parent of a child with special needs? 
  • Do you sometimes feel distant from God, questioning His purpose for your child's challenges? 
  • Have you found yourself focused on "fixing" your child rather than embracing who they are? 

In this episode, we welcome JJ LeVan, an award-winning author and mother who shares her 27-year journey of raising a son with autism. JJ opens up about the challenges of navigating autism in the late 1990s when resources were scarce and awareness was minimal. She discusses her transition from wanting to "fix" her son to embracing and celebrating who God created him to be, which ultimately inspired her children's book "He Meant You to Be You."


Featured Guest

JJ LeVan is a wife, mother to a blended family of five adult children, and an award-winning author. Her oldest son's autism diagnosis in 1998 inspired her advocacy work and her children's book "He Meant You to Be You," which celebrates God's love for uniquely created children. JJ blogs about her family's autism journey at "Travels with My Rain Man."


Connect with JJ LeVan


Resources Mentioned

  • KeyMinistry.org - Resources for churches developing disability ministries
  • "He Meant You to Be You" - JJ's children's book

Keywords: Adult Children With Disabilities, Autism, 


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Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler


Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

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