CHP Family Services will welcome author Kate Swenson for a virtual event, ‘The Secret World of Autism,’ on Wednesday, December 7 at 11 a.m. via Zoom.
[ Click here to watch a video of this event. ]
Parent and advocate Kate Swenson, author of the 2022 book Forever Boy: A Mother’s Memoir of Autism and Finding Joy, will reflect on her family’s journey through her son’s autism diagnosis, early intervention, transition to school services, and the emotional toll these processes can take on a family.
Swenson will discuss the transformations she experiences not only as a parent but as a person and her journey to finding joy in this new chapter of life.
Swenson is the creator of the popular blog and Facebook page Finding Cooper’s Voice, which has more than 900,000 followers. She regularly speaks about autism, parenting, and motherhood and is a contributor to TODAY Parents, The TODAY Show, and the Love What Matters blog.
“When I read Kate’s book, I laughed, I cried and yelled out loud that finally, someone gets my struggles,” said Markham, who has a child with autism and other disabilities.
This event is part of an ongoing effort from CHP social work intern Rania Markham to expand offerings to families and caregivers of those with special needs. Her programs include a special needs support group, playgroups, and an online program called IEP 101, which trains parents to navigate public schools’ educational programming for children with disabilities.
“When I read Kate’s book, I laughed, I cried and yelled out loud that finally, someone gets my struggles,” said Markham, who has a child with autism and other disabilities. “I am so excited that Kate Swenson will share her experience and journey with our community. Our community has resources, including here at CHP, and no one should have to navigate this journey alone.
Markham encourages parents, caregivers, neighbors, friends, and others who may have a child with disabilities in their home, neighborhood, or wider circle.
This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required.