In this powerful episode of If I Knew Then: Mom Edition, I sit down with my friend Andrea, a proud boy mom of three neurodivergent children, for an honest, deeply human conversation about parenting, advocacy, and the moments that change everything.
Andrea opens up about the joy and challenges of raising boys with unique needs and strengths, the ongoing frustration of navigating school systems that expect neurotypical milestones, and the importance of celebrating neurodivergence as a gift rather than a problem.
But the heart of this episode is the terrifying night her teenage son faced a sudden medical emergency: testicular torsion. With courage and vulnerability, Andrea shares how quickly everything unfolded, what she wishes she had known sooner, and why her son insisted she tell this story publicly, so no other family is left unprepared.
We dive into:
Raising three neurodivergent boys with love, humor, and resilience
How to advocate for your child in a system that resists change
The medical emergency every parent of boys should know about
Transforming mom guilt into advocacy and empowerment
Finding grace and self-kindness in the messiness of motherhood
Whether you’re a parent of a neurodivergent child, navigating the medical system, or simply looking for an authentic motherhood conversation, this episode will leave you feeling seen, informed, and empowered.
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Hosted by Maria Moreno, I’m a certified pediatric sleep consultant, coach, educator, and founder of Mindful Mother. I help moms reclaim rest, confidence, and calm, without guilt. From sleep plans and eBooks to coaching and community, my mission is to support the entire journey of motherhood, from newborns to the preschool years and beyond.
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Disclaimer:
The health information shared on this podcast is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with qualified professionals before making decisions based on the content shared here.
