Today I spoke with a fellow Nicole, a carer and health professional in the Aged care space after caring for her Nanna who passed in 2015. 
Nicole shares some invaluable insights into caring as a healthcare professional and how it differs to the average experience, and shares her story of starting her own business to support other carers and carees through the Aged care process. 

Today, Nicole spoke to Jodie, a mum of 2 and carer to her 20 year-old son, Lucas. Jodie and Nicole discuss the journey of raising a child on the autism spectrum, challenged of pre and post diagnosis and how Jodie's parenting experience was altered by the judgement and expectations of others, both on herself and her son. 

In this weeks' episode Nicole talks to Adrian, a father of 3 boys with Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses, among genetic and intellectual disabilities.
Nicole and Adrian discuss the cherished moments of parenting multiple children with special needs, the importance of maintaining the love in a marriage and for yourself through your caring journey, and the critical role education played for Adrian in accepting and embracing their reality and day to day challenges.

Self-care links re: carers of individuals with autism:
Autism Awareness Australia: https://www.autismawareness.com.au/therapies/parents-carers
Autism Spectrum Australia: autismspectrum.org.au/how-can-we-help/autism-advisor-program/other-funding-and-financial-support-options
Autism Connect Australia (phone support & information): 1300 308 669

Autism-related Education:
10 things children with autism wish you knew: https://suelarkey.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Tip-Sheet-10-Things.pdf
Book recommendation: Uniquely Human; Different way of seeing autism by Dr. Barry Prizant