In this inspiring episode of Listen Love Launch, Cindy Manko sits down with Julie, a passionate mom and advocate, as she shares the incredible journey of raising her son Declan, born as a micro preemie and later diagnosed with cerebral palsy. From early interventions like hippotherapy to Declan mastering percussion and track, Julie offers a powerful reminder that disabilities don’t define potential.

Together, they explore the balance between advocacy, independence, and community support. Julie’s story is filled with grit, grace, and the unshakable belief that our kids can achieve more than the world expects. If you're a mom walking a similar path, this episode will uplift, empower, and encourage you.

Listen in to learn more :

2:15 - 2:50 Julie’s Calling:  Advocate for those who can’t.

2:50 - 5:25 Declan’s Story and diagnosis

5:25 - 6:30   Advocacy Never Sleeps

6:30 - 8:45 Drop the Mic - Cindy’s reaction to Declan’s story 

8:45 - 11:15 Talk about limitations: Declan’s perseverance and inclusion

11:15 - 12:45 Comparison to “normal”: terminology

12:45 - 17:00 Struggles Declan faced and the support his parents provided.

17:00 - 20:50 What Julie wants you to know about the senior year!

20:50 - 25:25 Having “the time of his life” - took a collaborative team

25:25 - 27:48   Highlighting the main points

27:48 - 30:10   Cindy’s encouragement and final thoughts from Julie

The Journal Project: My Senior Year Through Mom's Eyes by Cindy Manko

https://a.co/d/2YguEiH

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