With your host currently under the weather, we hope you enjoy this re-airing of episode 13 with our good friend and supporter Dustin Phillips. 

Today we have an extraordinary guest, Dustin Phillips, whose passion and dedication to the exceptional needs community are truly amazing. Dustin's remarkable journey and the impact he's making in the lives of individuals with special needs are nothing short of inspiring.

Dustin's story is rooted in his deep love and connection with his older brother, Chad, who was born with Down syndrome. This familial bond ignited Dustin's lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals with exceptional needs. As a special education teacher, he works tirelessly to support children who have faced trauma, providing them with the care, understanding, and education they need to thrive.

Dustin's involvement with the Helen Keller Institute is another testament to his dedication. He spearheads the incredible "Camp Courage: A Helen Keller Experience," a program designed to empower young students with visual and/or hearing impairments. This transformative three-day camp fosters confidence, lasting connections, and a vision for the future, leaving a lasting mark on the lives of these young participants.

But that's not all. Dustin is also deeply engaged with "Night to Shine," an unforgettable prom night experience that radiates love and inclusion for people with special needs. Through this event, individuals aged 14 and older are given a chance to shine, dance, and celebrate life with the warmth of community and acceptance.

In addition to his educational and advocacy work, Dustin is turning his dreams into reality with "The Chadwick Center." This brand-new event venue is being developed in honor of his beloved brother, Chad. The Chadwick Center stands out as a place of celebration, unity, and accessibility. It's designed to be inclusive and accommodating to individuals with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can participate fully and feel embraced. Dustin's goal is to create a hub where more services can be offered to the exceptional needs community and their families, with plans to open to the public in the Fall of 2024. 

Dustin's dedication to promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and a brighter future for individuals with exceptional needs is a story that will touch your heart and inspire you. So, stay tuned as we delve deeper into his exceptional journey and the impact he's making in this week's episode.

Here's how you can reach out to Dustin:
Instagram
X (formerly Twitter)
Facebook
The Chadwick Center website
The Chadwick Center Instagram

Host: Steve Dover
Email: exceptionalstoriespodcast@gmail.com
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Welcome, my friends, to another captivating episode of "Exceptional Stories and the People Who Live Them." Today, we embark on a deeply personal exploration into the intricate world of genetic legacies, as we delve into the profound impact of Q28 duplication on second-generation individuals. Our guest, Kaylee Sartin, shares a story that transcends generations, weaving a tale of strength, love, and the complexities of inherited quirks.

In a remarkable twist of fate, Kaylee's journey with Q28 duplication echoes through her family's history. She brings a unique perspective to the table. Kaylee's familial connection to the condition doesn't end with her own experiences – she watched her brother navigate life with the same diagnosis, a poignant narrative we explored in our inaugural episode. Now, as the mother of Wyatt, an almost six-year-old with Xq28 duplication, Kaylee opens up about the challenges, triumphs, and emotional rollercoaster of caring for her son, offering us a glimpse into the echo of her past and the profound impact it holds for her family's future. Join us as we listen to the heartwarming and challenging moments that define the Sartin family's exceptional journey.

Host: Steve Dover
Email: exceptionalstoriespodcast@gmail.com
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In our last episode, Dr. Rodney Gilmore touched our hearts with valuable insights on navigating grief. This week, we're thrilled to bring you Part 2 of "Beyond the Challenges: Finding Hope Amid Special Needs Grief." 

Join us as we dive deeper into the conversation, exploring a facet of grief often overshadowed. Discover practical strategies and heartfelt perspectives on addressing and overcoming this unique form of grief. 

Host: Steve Dover
Email: exceptionalstoriespodcast@gmail.com
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Welcome to another episode of "Exceptional Stories and the People Who Live Them." Today, we’ll embark on an emotional journey as we delve into the profound topic of navigating grief in the realm of special needs parenting. 

In this episode titled "Beyond the Challenges: Finding Hope Amid Special Needs Grief," we aim to illuminate the path toward resilience and hope, acknowledging that the journey is often marked by profound challenges and unexpected turns. 

Our guest today is a friend and confidant to my family. Today, you’ll hear how he helped our family during our time of grief in May of 2015 as I share things, I’ve never publicly shared about our journey. He is a seasoned counselor and pastor and brings insights that go beyond conventional narratives, offering solace and inspiration to parents and caregivers navigating the intricate terrain of grief. 

Host: Steve Dover
Email: exceptionalstoriespodcast@gmail.com
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Welcome to this week’s episode. Today, I want to explore the crucial role of caregivers, educators, and community members in advocating for children. In this episode, we introduce the "5 A's for Advocating for Kids" framework—a guide empowering individuals to be effective advocates. Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, these principles, focusing on awareness, assertiveness, alliances, adaptability, and access to resources, will be your roadmap for impactful advocacy. Join us as we work towards a world where every child's voice is heard and their potential celebrated.

Let’s embark on this advocacy journey together, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

If you would like a PDF copy of this framework, send an email to exceptionalstoriespodcast@gmail.com and we'll get it right out to you. 

Host: Steve Dover
Email: exceptionalstoriespodcast@gmail.com
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Today, we are privileged to host the incredible mother-and-son duo, Michelle and Mason Harvey. In 2020, Mason faced the unexpected challenge of a Crohn's disease diagnosis, altering the course of their lives. Together, they will open up about their journey, offering insights into the daily realities of living with Crohn's. 

With unwavering courage and a commitment to thriving despite the hurdles, Michelle and Mason share their experiences, showcasing not only their toughness but also the strength that binds them together. You’ll also hear Mason explain why he feels, his diagnosis is a gift and what he considers a “victory”. 

Their podcast, 'IBDetermined,' is a beacon of support for others on similar paths. Join us as we delve into their remarkable story, discovering the triumphs, challenges, and the indomitable spirit that defines their journey.

IBDetermined Podcast
IBDetermined YouTube Channel
Karmatude Candles

Host: Steve Dover
Email: exceptionalstoriespodcast@gmail.com
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This week, we are honored to have Savannah Loudin as our featured guest. Savannah is a beacon of inspiration and resilience, having dedicated the past decade of her life to working with the special needs population, plus almost a year with a remarkable ministry at Asbury, where she shares profound insights into the team's tireless commitment and the unique requirements they navigate every Sunday.

In this episode, Savannah pulls back the curtain on the extraordinary efforts that go into making a typical Sunday at Asbury truly exceptional. From the meticulous team requirements to the ongoing dedication that fuels their impactful work, Savannah provides an intimate look into the heart and soul of this transformative ministry. As a seasoned leader, Savannah also imparts valuable guidance for local church leaders eager to initiate similar initiatives, offering a roadmap for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Join us as we delve into the stories that shape lives and explore the unwavering dedication that defines Savannah Loudin's extraordinary journey at Asbury.

Links:
Asbury Church
Send an email to Savannah

Host: Steve Dover
Email: exceptionalstoriespodcast@gmail.com
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Today, we're focusing on a crucial aspect often overlooked—caregiver health. Our episode, "Navigating Emotional and Mental Health Challenges: Tips for Special Needs Parents," aims to provide valuable insights and tips for parents navigating the unique journey of raising children with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Caregiving for children with special needs comes with its own set of challenges, and often, the emotional and mental well-being of parents takes a back seat. In this episode, we'll explore the impact of caregiver health on life satisfaction and share practical tips to enhance the overall well-being of special needs parents. Join us as we navigate through the complexities of this journey, offering guidance to foster a healthier and more satisfying life for both parents and their children with special needs. Stay tuned for a conversation that combines empathy, expertise, and actionable advice.

Links:

Child Mind Institute Article: Why Self-Care Is Essential to Parenting - Child Mind Institute

National Library of Medicine: The psychosocial, endocrine and immune consequences of caring for a child with autism or ADHD - PubMed (nih.gov)

Host: Steve Dover
Email: exceptionalstoriespodcast@gmail.com
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