Parenting Autism
Real Talk. Real Challenges. Real Strength.
The Autism Society of Greater Akron’s June Voice webinar, “Lived Experiences in Autism: Real Talk, Real Challenges, and Real Strength,” featured a conversation with Deborah Lonzer, author of Autism in an African-American Family, and Rob Gorski, autism parenting advocate, founder of The Autism Dad, and author of the forthcoming book So Your Child Was Just Diagnosed with Autism. Moderated by ASGA Executive Director Nathan Briggs, the discussion centered on parenting autistic children, navigating limited resources, building community, and promoting acceptance.
Key Themes
Limited access to autism resources: Both speakers described beginning their parenting journeys during a time when autism awareness was far lower and information was difficult to find. Deborah shared that she often had to travel to Cleveland for support, while Rob described turning to online journaling because few practical resources existed for parents.
The emotional weight of diagnosis and caregiving: Rob emphasized that families often leave diagnostic appointments with little emotional support, which can create fear and hopelessness. Deborah described the exhaustion, isolation, and constant vigilance involved in parenting two autistic sons with very different sensory and behavioral needs.
Writing as connection and advocacy: Deborah and Rob both began writing as a way to process their experiences. Over time, their writing became a resource for other families who felt unseen, unsupported, or alone.
Safety, sensory needs, and family dynamics: Deborah shared vivid examples of managing conflict between her sons, including the need to supervise them closely and create safety strategies at home. She also discussed sensory differences, overstimulation, and the challenges of helping her sons build relationships.
Loneliness, exclusion, and the need for belonging: Deborah spoke about painful experiences around birthday parties, peer rejection, bullying, and the deep need for friendships and meaningful social connection for autistic children and adults.
Acceptance beyond awareness: The conversation moved from autism awareness to true acceptance, including the need for communities, employers, schools, churches, and families to actively include autistic people, learn individual preferences, and value their strengths.
Speaker Highlights
Deborah Lonzer shared her experience as an educator and mother of two autistic adult sons. She described the difficulty of raising children when autism was not widely understood, especially for families of color, and reflected on the importance of family, church, persistence, and advocacy. Her book is intended not only for parents, but also for the people around them, so they can better understand how to offer practical and compassionate support.
Rob Gorski discussed his journey as a father of three autistic sons and how his private online journaling unexpectedly became a widely used resource for parents. He emphasized the importance of reframing diagnosis, supporting parents emotionally, and helping families understand that their children’s futures are not hopeless. His forthcoming book focuses on helping parents navigate the early period after an autism diagnosis with more clarity and support.
Key Takeaways
- Families need emotional support, not just diagnostic information or referral lists.
- Autistic people and their families benefit when communities move from awareness to intentional inclusion and acceptance.
- Parents and caregivers should not have to navigate autism services alone; connection, advocacy, and shared lived experience can reduce isolation.
- Support should be individualized, practical, and respectful of sensory needs, communication differences, and personal preferences.
- Employment, friendships, social opportunities, and community belonging are important for autistic adults as well as children.
Closing Notes
The webinar closed with thanks to Deborah Lonzer, Rob Gorski, ASGA staff, and attendees. Nathan Briggs also invited participants to join ASGA’s upcoming Step Into Autism event at Tam O’Shanter in Stark County on September 26 and highlighted the “You Are Made Perfect” initiative as a symbol of connection within the autism community.
Webinar Made Possible By:
