Ep. 139 – Two Sisters. One Child. One Autism Journey with Jessica

In this powerful episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah speaks with Jessica Pereira from the Bronx, NY, about raising her daughter Ja’Niyah, who was diagnosed with autism at age 2.5. Jessica shares how her bond with her sister, Chasity, evolved into a deeply connected co-parenting partnership rooted in unconditional love, advocacy, and autism acceptance.

Together, they have created a home where stimming is welcomed, communication in all forms is honored, and Ja’Niyah is embraced exactly as she is. This heartfelt conversation explores sisterhood, support, neurodiversity, and helping autistic children thrive without forcing them into conventional molds.

In this episode, we discuss:

00:00 Badass Moms Welcome

00:55 Why Moms Need Support

03:02 Meet Jessica Pereira

04:52 Bronx Beginnings

05:53 Early Signs and Referral

08:27 Diagnosis Day and Next Steps

10:44 Mom Guilt and Sister Steps Up

14:38 Single Mom Survival Mode

15:57 School Trauma and Homeschool Choice

19:04 Aggression and Communication Tools

21:51 Sister Co Parenting System

28:05 Acceptance Stimming and Public Stares

30:13 Future Fears and Big Love

33:52 Routine Changes and Respite

35:45 Sister as Lifeline

38:28 Dating and Limited Support

40:35 ADHD and Mental Health

43:45 IEP and School Struggles

46:38 Gratitude and Softening Up

49:02 Mourning Expectations

53:16 Badass Mom Reality

57:08 Advice to Keep Going

01:00:58 What Makes Her Badass

01:03:38 Closing and Call to Action

Connect with Jessica:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/crzyfantasy128

Facebook: Jessica Janette

If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to:

-Follow the podcast

-Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform

-Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across the globe

-Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear this

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast