Hi everyone,
Sometimes the most meaningful support comes from someone who’s walked the same path.
In this episode of Wine with Wita, I sit down with Atilio Brito, a devoted father, finance professional, and founder of Dads Speak, a support network for fathers raising children with special needs.
Atilio opens up about the moment his son Alexis was diagnosed with Level 3 autism and ADHD, and how that news sent him into a dark space. Like so many fathers, Atilio felt pressure to hold everything together.
He didn’t speak up. He didn’t ask for help. And it took years before he could finally say he was coping. But through this pain came purpose.
What we covered:
💬 The moment Atilio received his son’s diagnosis and how it shifted everything
💬 Navigating grief and denial while trying to show up for his family
💬 How a random gaming connection led to the creation of Dads Speak
💬 The emotional toll of trying to hold it all together as a father
💬 Why support for dads is still lacking and how Dads Speak is changing that
💬 The power of community, connection, and starting with just one honest conversation
This episode is a must-listen for families, professionals, and anyone who believes dads deserve a place in the story too.
Atilio’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the hardest moments, connection and community can light the way forward. If you know a dad walking a similar path, share this episode, it might be the conversation he didn’t know he needed.
Resource links from this episode:
🔗 Follow Dads Speak on $ Instagram$
🔗 Listen to the $ Dads Speak Podcast $
Lots of love,
Rita
P.S. Follow me on $ Instagram$ for more tips, insights and updates.
Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development
