This Ability Podcast

Sam Primeaux shares how a life-changing motorcycle accident left him paralyzed at 17 — and how he's faced every day since with grit, faith, and determination. From intensive therapy to strength training and stem cell treatments, Sam opens up about reclaiming independence and redefining possibility.

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In this episode, Laynie Stevens shares her journey as a college student with cerebral palsy, her leadership as past president of Alpha Delta Pi for students with disabilities & her advocacy work on the Lafayette Mayor-President’s Awareness Committee. As she prepares to graduate with a degree in Accounting, Laynie reflects on accessibility, inclusion & student representation. 

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Thanks for listening to This Abil...

In this powerful episode of This Ability Podcast, host Mary Baudoin sits down with Jayce Romero, a young DeafBlind advocate from Lafayette, Louisiana, who lives with Usher Syndrome Type 1B. Jayce shares his deeply personal story—from his early diagnosis, educational journey, and family discoveries to his commitment to raising awareness about DeafBlindness. With the help of his interpreter Shirley Delahousie, Jayce offers insight in...

In this episode of This Ability Podcast, we sit down with Justina Plowden, Miss Wheelchair Louisiana and founder of We Matter, a support and advocacy group for individuals with disabilities across the Acadiana region. Justina shares her journey as a powerful advocate for accessibility, inclusion, and representation. From her experience competing in the Miss Wheelchair America pageant to leading regional conversations around disabil...

In this episode, we sit down with Kristie Curtis — a fierce advocate for disability rights, a passionate community leader, and a devoted mom to three amazing sons, each with unique abilities. Kristie shares her powerful journey into advocacy, her work with LaCAN (Louisiana Council’s Advocacy Network), and the role her unshakable faith has played in helping her overcome life's biggest challenges. Her story is a reminder of the ...

In this episode of This Ability Podcast, we sit down with Cheryl Laws Tessier, a nurse practitioner, mother, and powerful advocate for the disability community. Cheryl shares her personal journey navigating her son Howard’s autism diagnosis—from early signs and initial dismissals by healthcare providers to securing vital therapies and support services. Her story highlights the importance of trusting your instincts as a parent, unde...

In this episode of This Ability Podcast, we welcome Sylnita Livas-Bougere, an educator, advocate, and devoted mother from Thibodaux, Louisiana. After relocating to Lafayette following Hurricane Ida, Sylnita has dedicated her life to autism awareness and special needs advocacy, inspired by her 13-year-old son, Rain, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. She shares her journey of navigating autism, her passion for educat...

🎶 Have you ever wondered how music can heal and bring people together? In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Vanessa Lomas, founder of TheraCare Music Therapy of Lafayette and president of the Autism Society of Acadiana, to explore the transformative power of music. 🎶 

Here’s what we dive into:  
🎶 The deep connection between music and life events, like birthdays and celebrations  
💊 How music therapy can ...

In this episode, Donielle Watkins shares the inspiring story behind the creation of the DREAMS Foundation of Acadiana and its mission to provide inclusive opportunities for people with disabilities in the Acadiana area. From sports, art, and theater to galas, camps, and more, Donielle highlights the diverse activities that foster connection and empowerment. 

She also talks about the foundation's innovative meat pie ma...

In this episode, we interview the 2024 Acadiana Teen Spirit Award Winners who are making a difference in the community:

🏆 Aubrey David – 9th-grade student at Teurlings Catholic High School
🏆 Chloe Songne – 9th-grade student at New Iberia Senior High School

Aubrey David is an inspiring teenager with a heart for service and a drive to make a meaningful impact in her community. Through her initiative, Aubrey’s Amazing Grace, she h...

In this inspiring interview, Mary Frances opens up about her rare ZMIZ1 diagnosis, the profound role faith plays in her life, her deep love for animals, and her journey to graduating from the ULL LIFE (Learning Is for Everyone) Program. 

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Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

In this episode, we sit down with autistic teens from Red Oaks Coping in Lafayette, LA, for an engaging and eye-opening conversation. Hear them share what they love about attending Red Oaks School, their experiences with fitting in, their favorite video games, and their unique perspectives on life as autistic individuals. Tune in for an authentic and uplifting discussion that celebrates individuality and community. 

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In this heartwarming episode, we catch up with Ashley as she shares the latest updates about her son Drew and the transformative effects of the Early Intervention program. 

Ashley opens up about:  

• The incredible progress Drew has made through Early Intervention and how it’s positively impacted his development.  
• Her family’s experience with Mercy Medical Angels and Miracle Flights, who provided free airplane trips for D...

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Maria Revere, a woman of incredible strength and resilience.  

Maria opens up about her journey as a mother, sharing:  

• Her daughter’s diagnosis of Edward’s Syndrome (Trisomy 18) and the profound impact it had on her family.  
• The unwavering role of faith in guiding her through life’s toughest challenges. 
• Her own courageous battle with breast cancer and the lessons she’s le...

In this episode, we’re joined by the inspiring Stephanie Krielow, an advocate making a difference in the special education community.

Stephanie shares her powerful journey, including:

• Her advocacy efforts to secure funding for cameras in SPED classrooms across all parishes, ensuring greater transparency and safety.
• Practical tips on how anyone can step up and advocate for meaningful change in their communities.
• The founding of Red ...

In this episode, we sit down with the trailblazing Katie Haynes from Youngsville, North Carolina.

Katie made history as the first person to compete in the Miss United States Agriculture pageant in a wheelchair, and she shares her inspiring experiences from competing in multiple pageants.  

We also discuss:  

• Her journey living with Gastroparesis and a rare form of dysautonomia called AAG (Autoimmune Autonomic G...

In this episode, we welcome Jada Babcock for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation. 

Jada opens up about her journey as a mother, including:  

• Her son’s diagnosis of Chromosome 13 Deletion and how it has shaped their family’s life.  
• Writing her powerful book, An Exceptional Life: A Story of Faith, Missing Chromosomes, & Unconditional Love, which shares their story of resilience, faith, and unconditional love.  
• Co-c...

In this episode, we sit down with Craig Oser, Marketing Director for Special Olympics Louisiana, for an inspiring conversation about the organization’s mission and impact.  

Craig shares the exciting new vision for Special Olympics Louisiana, highlighting its commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion across all communities.  
We also explore:  

• The powerful story behind the Law Enforcement Torch Run  
• ...

Get ready for an inspiring episode featuring Coach Damon, Founder and Owner of Train Unique in Lafayette, Louisiana! Coach Damon shares his journey of creating a gym designed for individuals with special needs. His passion, resilience, and dedication have made him a mentor, friend, and motivator for so many athletes.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

His bold beginnings (and a "disaster" at age 18!) and the...