Raising a Complex Kid: Advocacy, Empathy, and Inclusion with Michelle Choairy - Episode 34

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron speaks with Michelle Choairy, a mother and advocate for children with complex needs, about her journey raising a son with a rare genetic disorder, TBR1. Michelle shares her experiences navigating early intervention, advocating for her son’s education, and fostering community among families facing similar challenges. The conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy, trusting parental instincts, and creating inclusive spaces for all children. Michelle’s insights inspire parents to embrace advocacy and resilience, offering actionable advice and hope for families beginning their own journeys toward inclusion and understanding.

Key Takeaways:

Advocacy Matters: Trust your instincts and persist in advocating for your child’s needs, even when met with skepticism.

Early Intervention: Starting interventions early is crucial to maximizing a child's potential.

Empathy Builds Inclusion: Practicing empathy allows for better understanding and inclusive behaviors toward families with unique challenges.

Community Support: Connecting with others on similar journeys fosters resilience and shared learning.

Flexibility in Education: Adapting educational environments to meet individual needs can lead to significant progress.

Michelle’s definition of inclusion:

All people independent of race or disability have the right to have the best life.

Michelle’s Bio:

Michelle Choairy is a mom of a complex kid. She has been her son’s best advocate and has learned through the years what it takes to get the best care for her child.  She is the Founder of Collective Wisdom for Complex Kids, a support group for mothers with children with disabilities. She has a passion for helping families re-evaluate and prioritize their dynamics, along with guiding them from confusion to clarity while raising complex children.

Connect with Michelle:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wisdom4complexkids

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelle.choairy/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellechoairy/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleChoairy

Website: https://wisdom4complexkids.com/

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest: 

No

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 17

No - 15

☕ Buy me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad

Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates

Want to create videos like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6041699795730432

Want to be a guest on Inclusion and Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad? Send Aaron Devries a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad