Podcast no. 5, 22 July 2022
In this second episode of the S.E.N Mama Series, I interview Gemma from Auckland, New Zealand.
Gemma is a friend who moved to NZ along with her then almost two-year-old, Thomas in 2015, from the UK.
With 12 hours time difference between us, we managed to have a lovely confabulation about Thomas’s diagnosis of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and what it has meant to her.
Gemma wasn’t worried much about Thomas’s progression as a toddler until the Head Mistress of the kindergarten demanded she took him for tests.
Gemma’s understanding of her son and his neurodivergence has helped her understand herself and any past behaviours and given her the right tools to stay attentive and parent well, moving forwards.
She’s passionate about providing the right support to Thomas and encourages any mother out there to further educate themselves through groups and friendships, rather than rely on general practitioners for the most uncommon information.
I absolutely love the Maori word for autism “Takiwãtanga”: in my/his/her own time and space! (And yes, I made a tit of myself referring to a dictionary but I’m old school, ha!)
It’s been wonderful to learn more about just how diverse and fascinating autism is.
I hope you enjoy Gemma’s story too!
Thank you,
Stacey.
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