Episode Summary:
In this episode, I had the pleasure of welcoming Jan Stewart, a dedicated mother and advocate for neurodivergent individuals, back to the Autism Blueprint Podcast. Jan shared valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of raising her children, Andrew and Ainsley, who are now thriving in their respective careers.
Jan discussed the importance of preparing for the transition into adulthood for neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing the need for services and supports, including finding the right professionals such as psychologists and psychiatrists. She highlighted the significance of legal guardianship and powers of attorney to ensure the well-being and protection of her children as they navigate adulthood.
The conversation delved into the critical aspects of financial planning and employment opportunities for neurodivergent individuals. Jan shared her son Andrew’s journey to finding his dream job at Rogers Communications, emphasizing the importance of inclusive workplaces and customized accommodations for individuals with diverse needs.
Jan also provided valuable insights into maintaining a strong and supportive partnership with her husband, David, throughout the challenges of raising neurodivergent children. She emphasized the importance of open communication, mutual respect, and understanding in navigating the complexities of parenting.
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Meet Jan Stewart
Jan Stewart is a highly regarded neurodiversity advocate, author, speaker and parent. Her award-winning memoir Hold on Tight is brutally honest and describes her emotional roller coaster journey raising two children with multiple mental health and neuro-developmental disorders. Her mission is to inspire and empower caregivers to have hope and persevere, as well as to better educate their families, friends, health care professionals, educators and employers.
Jan chairs the Board of Directors at Kerry’s Place Autism Services, which is Canada’s largest autism services provider, is a Today’s Parent columnist on autism and was previously ViceChair at Canada’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. She spent most of her career as a senior Partner with the global executive search firm Egon Zehnder. Jan is a Diamond Life Master in bridge and enjoys fitness, genealogy and dance.
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