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In this emotional and eye-opening episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Alfred Samson, a dedicated father navigating the complexities of raising his autistic daughter, Sophie. Alfred shares the raw and deeply personal journey of discovering her condition—marked by seizures, an epilepsy diagnosis, and a potential Harvard medical study that could provide crucial insights into her condition.
Through candid storytelling, Alfred discusses the emotional struggles, the toll on marriage, and the resilience required to accept and embrace an unexpected parenting journey. From early signs of autism to learning to grieve the life he once imagined, he offers powerful advice on coping mechanisms, therapy, and the importance of support systems. Whether you’re a dad feeling overwhelmed or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen.
TOPICS COVERED
✔️ Early Signs & Diagnosis – The unexpected medical episodes that led to Sophie’s autism & epilepsy diagnosis
✔️ The Emotional Rollercoaster – How Alfred struggled with resentment, exhaustion, and eventually found peace
✔️ Seeking Help – The power of therapy, faith, and support systems in navigating the challenges of special needs parenting
✔️ The Impact on Marriage – How Alfred and his wife strengthened their bond despite the hardships
✔️ Choosing to Have Another Child – The thought process and fears behind expanding their family
✔️ Words of Wisdom for Dads – The importance of grieving, adapting, and embracing the unique journey of raising a neurodivergent child
GUEST LINKS
Unmodern Podcast – https://unmodernpodcast.com/episodes
QUOTE
“You have to grieve the life you thought you’d have and learn to love the life you’ve been given.” – Alfred Samson
DISCLAIMER:
Every child's autism journey is unique. This video shares one family's personal experience and is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.Support the show
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SUMMARY
In this heartfelt episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse takes listeners on a personal journey exploring the unexpected blessings and silver linings that come with raising a child on the autism spectrum.
Drawing from his experience as a father to Damien (12, severe nonverbal autism) and Declan (11, neurotypical), Mark offers a refreshingly honest perspective on the different paths of fatherhood.
Through candid reflection and genuine vulnerability, he challenges the narrative that autism parenting is solely about challenges, revealing the profound ways his son has transformed his life for the better.
TOPICS
The Freedom from Social Expectations: How autism parenting can liberate both parent and child from societal pressuresCelebrating Different Victories: Finding joy in unconventional milestones, from pointing to keeping a jacket onLiving Authentically: Learning from children who experience life without masks or pretensePersonal Growth Through Parenting: How having an autistic child motivated positive life changesThe Power of Present Moment: Embracing a different perspective on time and achievementQUOTE:
"My son loves me. That's the biggest thing I could ever want or wish for in life. And I have that every day, so I'm doing good." -Mark de Grasse
Note: Every child's autism journey is unique. This video shares one family's personal experience and is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.
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In this heartfelt episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Dennis Procopio, a father navigating the complexities of raising his 14-year-old son, Bennett, who lives with moderate-to-severe autism and achondroplasia dwarfism. Dennis shares raw, unfiltered insights into his parenting journey, from grappling with initial feelings of frustration and loss to embracing the unique bond he has with his son.
The conversation dives into the challenges of raising a child with additional needs, including navigating aggressive behaviors, advocating for school support, and fostering resilience through humor and understanding. Dennis also discusses how his personal growth, martial arts training, and empathy have helped him become the dad Bennett needs. Filled with wisdom, humor, and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for any parent learning to thrive in the unexpected.
Parenting Through a Triple Diagnosis: Autism, dwarfism, and unique challengesEmotional Vulnerability: Overcoming societal expectations of fatherhoodAdvocacy in Schools: Fighting for special needs rights and educationMartial Arts & Parenting: How Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu helps manage behavior safelyThe Father’s Role: Providing strength, humor, and love in difficult moments
TOPICSGUEST LINKS
Dennis Procopio: https://www.manuplifecoaching.com/
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When doctors suggested institutionalizing his 6-month-old son, Steve Levine faced a defining moment in fatherhood. Now, 35 years later, he shares how rejecting that advice led to an extraordinary journey of discovery, determination, and joy. His son Nathan - once considered "too disabled" for regular school - has become an award-winning employee at a major Austin hotel, challenging everything society assumes about severe autism.
But this isn't just a story about autism success. It's about a father who refused to treat his autistic son differently from his other children, who discovered that being "just a dad" was exactly what all his kids needed. Through hilarious stories of dumpster diving for precious toys, heartwarming moments at live music venues, and the daily symphony of door alarms and safety measures, Steve reveals how fatherhood transcends diagnosis.
In this episode, you'll discover:
How to identify and build on your child's natural interests and strengthsCreative approaches to workplace success beyond traditional "disability jobs"Practical home adaptations that actually workWhy being "just a dad" is exactly what our kids need📱 Connect With Us:
https://www.facebook.com/DadsinAutismland https://www.instagram.com/dadsinautismland/ https://www.youtube.com/@DadsinAutismland🎥 New Episodes Every Week! Subscribe for more real talks about autism parenting: https://dadsinautismland.com/
💡 Share Your Story: Comment below with your experience finding meaningful work opportunities for your autistic child. Your story matters!
ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.
#AutismDad #AutismEmployment #AutismSuccess #DadsinAutismland #AutismAwareness #WorkplaceInclusion
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Are you wondering if your child might be on the autism spectrum? One dad's powerful journey of discovery could help you find answers sooner. Mark de Grasse describes the early years of his autism journey with his son Damien.
In this episode, you'll discover:
- Critical early signs of autism that are often overlooked
- How to navigate the diagnosis process with confidence
- Game-changing routines that actually work
- Expert-approved therapy options that make a difference
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to join our supportive community of autism dads! 🔔
🔍 Resources Mentioned:
Central Texas Autism Center
Fortis Therapy (Dripping Springs)
River Kids Therapy
📱 Connect With Us:
https://www.facebook.com/DadsinAutismland
https://www.instagram.com/dadsinautismland/
https://www.youtube.com/@DadsinAutismland
🎥 New Episodes Every Week!
Subscribe for more real talks about autism parenting: https://dadsinautismland.com/
💡 Share Your Story:
Comment below with your experience or questions about early autism signs. Your story matters!
ℹ️ Note: Every child's autism journey is unique. This video shares one family's personal experience and is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.Support the show
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Send us a text
In this heartfelt debut episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse introduces listeners to the mission behind the podcast: creating a supportive space for fathers raising children on the autism spectrum. Sharing personal stories about his son Damien, who is severely autistic and nonverbal, Mark candidly reflects on the challenges and triumphs of navigating fatherhood in Autismland.
From traveling with a child who craves sensory input to the importance of community understanding, Mark provides relatable anecdotes and practical advice. He discusses the transformative journey of parenting a child with autism, touching on themes of resilience, empathy, and personal growth. Mark’s openness about his own emotional evolution and his goal to empower other dads creates a warm, inclusive environment.
Tune in for honest conversations, shared experiences, and insights to help fathers embrace their unique journey in Autismland.
TOPICS
Mark’s journey as a father to a nonverbal, severely autistic son.Challenges and strategies for traveling with a child with sensory needs.Building patience, empathy, and personal growth through fatherhood.The societal pressures and misconceptions fathers of autistic children face.The importance of fostering connection and community among autism dads.Setting realistic expectations and embracing the highs and lows of autism parenting.A preview of future episodes featuring other autism dads and their stories.Support the show
