Show Notes:

What happens when a parent refuses to accept that "this is just the way it is"? In this inspiring episode of Why Not Me? Embracing Autism and Mental Health Worldwide, host Tony Mantor welcomes autism advocate Colleen Lamar, whose personal journey as the mother of two autistic sons led to the creation of opportunities that continue to impact countless families.

Colleen shares the emotional story of her sons' diagnoses, the challenges of navigating therapy, education, insurance battles, and public schools, and how a year living in Germany completely changed her perspective on autism. She explains how that experience inspired her determination to advocate for her children and eventually help establish the Jeremiah Center, an innovative educational program that provides neurodivergent students with the opportunity to thrive in a supportive private school environment.

The conversation also explores sibling relationships, faith, advocacy, independent living, the importance of community, and the remarkable success of Vanderbilt University's Next Steps program in helping autistic young adults prepare for meaningful employment and independent lives.

Whether you're a parent, educator, clinician, advocate, or someone seeking a better understanding of autism, this episode offers hope, practical insights, and a powerful reminder that one family's determination can create lasting change for many others.

In this episode you'll hear:

• The emotional reality of receiving an autism diagnosis
• Why perspective can completely change the autism journey
• Lessons learned from living in Germany
• Navigating therapies, insurance, and special education
• The story behind the Jeremiah Center
• Why advocacy begins with parents
• Supporting neurotypical siblings
• The importance of inclusive education
• Vanderbilt's nationally recognized Next Steps program
• Building independence in autistic young adults
• Faith, resilience, and finding hope through community
• Encouragement for parents just beginning their autism journey