What happens when a mother’s determination to find answers meets a physician dedicated to uncovering the root causes behind autism and developmental challenges? In this powerful episode, autism advocate Heather Acquavella of Theo’s Voice joins renowned functional medicine specialist Dr. Jared Skowron to share the remarkable journey of her son, Theo. Together they discuss the turning points that led them beyond conventional approaches, the testing and discoveries that helped unlock new possibilities, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

Today’s episode is an honest conversation about advocacy, persistence, and a search for answers beyond a conventional medicine approach. Our guests share practical advice for families navigating autism and developmental concerns including how to cut through overwhelming information, trust parental instincts, and balance hope with realistic expectations. Heather Acquavella shares the mission behind Theo’s Bridge Foundation and her growing community of parents seeking support and answers, while Dr. Jared Skowron offers insights into the most common challenges families face and the evolving future of autism care. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, practitioner, or advocate, this episode delivers inspiration, actionable insights, and a powerful reminder that every child’s journey is unique.

Today on The Lab Report:

• 4:00 Meet Dr. Jared Skowron and Heather Acquavella
• 5:35 Theo’s story and Heather’s determination
• 9:15 Skowron’s pioneering story in helping autistic children
• 11:00 Working together for answers, sharing the story on TikTok
• 17:55 Specialty lab testing for deeper insights
• 20:05 Advice to parents and caregivers
• 25:00 Theo’s Voice and Theo’s Bridge Foundation
• 29:15 Why aren’t there more autism specialists?
• 31:35 Balancing hope with expectation: Video chronicles
• 34:05 Caring for the caretakers
• 37:00 What gives you hope for the future of autism?
• 39:45 Social media resources

Additional Resources:

TikTok - theosvoice2

TikTok - Theo's Bridge

Donate to Help an Autism Family get answers they deserve

Spectrum Awakening

Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review.

Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on X, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net.

And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing.

To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect.

Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.