Ep. 76 – Pressure of Doing Enough Raising Three Children with Disabilities with Susie

In this powerful episode of Autism for Badass Moms, we sit down with Susie Thomas, a dedicated mother, cosmetologist of 21 years, and licensed massage therapist of 14 years, balancing work and family life in Las Vegas, Nevada. Susie and her husband, Gerard, are parents to three children—Caydell (19), diagnosed with ADD; Mugen (7), who has sensory processing disorder; and Saya (4), who was diagnosed with autism at just 22 months.

Susie opens up about how their journey into autism began in the middle of COVID, a time filled with uncertainty and struggles. With Caydell navigating mental health challenges, including suicidal thoughts and self-harm, and both Mugen and Saya requiring different levels of support, Susie often felt pulled in multiple directions, trying to ensure each of her children received the attention and care they needed.

Through all the challenges, Susie has gained a profound perspective on life and parenting, learning to see the world through Saya’s eyes. She shares how this experience has strengthened their family and shaped her belief that in order to truly understand autism, we must learn to “hear what isn’t said.”

This episode is a must-listen for parents navigating multiple diagnoses, mental health struggles, and the emotional weight of advocating for their children. Susie’s story is raw, real, and filled with wisdom that will inspire and empower other badass autism moms on their own journeys.

Connect with Susie:

-Instagram: @sayautism (Saya’s journey) | @famugen

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