Life with Down Syndrome: Shouting His Worth
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When he was born seven weeks before his due date, prematurity seemed to be the biggest obstacle facing Gideon Schroeder. His parents, Marianne and Greg, were completely surprised when Gideon was diagnosed with Down Syndrome.... Read full article
A Playdate-Style Birthday Party
by Mari Walker on
Birthday parties for littles can add up fast. For a few Benjamins, you can take them and a few friends to a bounce place or rent a bounce house for your backyard. We didn’t start big parties like that for my older daughter until she was about five.... Read full article
Cajun Navy Foundation
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“The Cajun Navy Foundation is rooted in technology. Yes, it’s boats, but it’s technology,” says Rob Gaudet, Founder of the Cajun Navy Foundation. While the Cajun Navy Foundation is a citizen-led relief effort, it wouldn’t be where it is today without... Read full article
Different, Not Less: A Mother’s Advocacy for Her Son with Autism
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A diagnosis of autism can turn a family upside down, and that was the case for William Spiller IV when he was diagnosed at age two. Because he didn’t speak or respond, doctors first thought his hearing was the problem, but an auditory brainstem respo... Read full article
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
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When Dot Thibodeaux found herself raising her grandson, she felt alone and like she had no one to turn to for guidance. It turned out her friend, Danna Spayde, was facing the same issues as Dot, so they decided to form a support group called “Second ... Read full article
Building a Legacy of Love One Hug at a Time
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Avery Vasta is a preschooler at Central Primary in Gonzales. When she hears music, she has to stop and dance, and she’s free with hugs and kindness, making her a favorite at school and everywhere she goes. She loves Moana and Elena of Avalor. Avery, ... Read full article
Going Viral: Teen Connects Through Poetry and TikTok Videos
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Although he didn’t speak until he was five, Cohen Swain is finding his voice. The 15-year-old is on the autism spectrum and has written a poem, Hold On, I’m Trying, that has gone viral. ... Read full article
Make Time For Yourself
by Amelia Laprairie on
Being a mom is a roller coaster of emotions. There’s happiness while watching the little ones grow, followed by my sadness because of the realization of how fast it happens. There’s anticipation of wanting them to reach milestones, followed by the ne... Read full article
Moms on Campus
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When LSU graduate student Wendy Hansing gave birth to her son, she realized that support and spaces for mothers on campus were limited. Not only were there no centralized resources from which mothers could receive information and help, but there was ... Read full article
My Life: After Attempting Suicide
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Emma Benoit is ascending. The 19 year old graduated from Dutchtown High School in 2018, but the summer before her senior year was when her life changed forever. ... Read full article