In this episode I talk with Heather Burdeaux, case manager and multi-talented, super busy mom of 3 about navigating life with 2 children who have special needs.  Her oldest, Arabella has Down syndrome and her youngest, Darin, has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autism.  A  few years ago Darin’s behavior began to suddenly shift.  Heather took courageous steps to help her son through a very difficult period.  She believes in expectation management which ensures every family member is able to fully enjoy vacations and holiday gatherings as defined by each person’s individual needs.  She also encourages making time for your own friendships.  And, as an entrepreneur herself, Heather already has some great ideas about what the future might hold for Bella and Darin.

Connect with Heather:
Blog about raising her kids: http://shantijoy.wordpress.com
Medicaid Resources Website:  http://texasmedicaidwaivers.com

Connect with Arabella:
Arabella’s Wonderful Life YouTube Channel:  http://tinyurl.com/arabella911
Arabella’s Wonderful Life Shop: http://tinyurl.com/arabella911shop

Connect with GHFEDS ~ Greater Houston Families Exploring Down Syndrome
Website:  http://ghfeds.org/

Connect with Sandy:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sandydeppisch
Embrace the Blessing Facebook Group: http://bit.ly/ETB4ME
Website: http://www.embracetheblessing.com/

In this episode I talk with Jennifer Anderson.  I promise not all of my guests are named Jennifer.  If they were, I’d have to change the name to the Jennifer Show.  That would just be silly.   However, if your name IS Jennifer and you’d like to be a guest, let me know.  How hard could it be to change the podcast name,  right?  But I digress.  This Jennifer showed up the day we recorded wearing a sparkly tiara because she’s just that fun.  She was also wearing a special shirt that announces to the world how proud she is to be an advocate for Macie, her  high energy, dance loving, prayerful 14 year old daughter who has Down syndrome.  Jennifer believes in treating a child with special needs just as you would any other child.  She encourages setting goals, being consistent with expectations and embracing your child’s hopes and dreams.

Connect with GHFEDS ~ Greater Houston Families Exploring Down Syndrome
Website:  http://ghfeds.org/

Connect with Sandy:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sandydeppisch
Embrace the Blessing Facebook Group: http://bit.ly/ETB4ME

In this episode I talk with Jennifer Vincent,  part time nurse and busy, full time mother of 3, who shares about her youngest daughter,  Alexandra.   Born with Down syndrome and a heart defect,  Alexandra was diagnosed with diabetes at age 9.   She is also a thrill loving, sensory seeker who water skis, zip lines and indoor sky dives.  Alexandra has a very full life with lots of opportunity and adventure, including  going to Nationals in Chicago to represent Texas in the Miss Amazing Teen Pageant.  Jennifer believes having a disability should not stop your child from doing things.  You just need to provide the necessary accommodations and give them every opportunity to try new things.

Connect with GHFEDS ~ Greater Houston Families Exploring Down Syndrome
Website:  http://ghfeds.org/

Connect with Sandy:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sandydeppisch
Embrace the Blessing Facebook Group: http://bit.ly/ETB4ME