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Meet Our Cover Mom
Connecting, Learning, and Empowering Through Shared Experiences
Q: Can you tell us about your family and your child?
A: Hi, I’m Bethany, and I have a daughter named Aurora. She just turned 10 years old. We live in Vero Beach with her dad and her older brother, Orion. We also have some animals at home.
Q: What is Aurora’s diagnosis?
A: Aurora has a condition called DDX three X syndrome. It means she has a gene mutation in the DDX three X gene, which is found in the X chromosome. There are now close to a thousand documented cases of this syndrome. Aurora is nonverbal and started walking around six and a half years old. She has some digestive and nerve problems due to the gene mutation.
Q: Have you had any eye-opening moments as a parent raising a child with this condition?
A: As a parent, I’ve learned to let go of preconceived notions and go with the flow. Everything keeps changing, and I’ve learned to appreciate smaller things that are actually big things. I try not to worry about small stuff and find humor in everything.
Q: Are there any recent triumphs or celebrations for Aurora?
A: 
[2]Yes, recently Aurora’s teacher and aide discovered that she can pick the correct letter and word from flashcards and index cards. She got it right 100% of the time without being taught to read. It’s a big achievement, and we’re very excited about it.
Q: What is your favorite dream vacation?
A: If I could go anywhere in the US, I would love to go to Alaska. If I could go anywhere in the world, maybe Spain because of the delicious food.
Q: Do you have a favorite quote or parenting mantra?
A: “Don’t sweat the small stuff” is something that helps me get through tough times. I try to find the humor in everything and not let things overwhelm me.
Q: Is there an Instagram account that motivates or inspires you?
A: I follow different accounts that showcase individuals with various diagnoses. They inspire me by sharing their stories and experiences. I also enjoy the “Special Kids” account, where a teacher interviews families and shares their stories.
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Q: Do you have a go-to order at Starbucks or a favorite drink?
A: I usually go for an iced hazelnut latte at Starbucks. It gives me an energy boost.
Q: If you could eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A: I would choose some sort of potato dish, like french fries. Potatoes are versatile and delicious.
Q: What Netflix show are you currently binge-watching?
A: I tend to watch light and entertaining shows as a way to relaxthat I call it “brain bleach”! Recently, I’ve been watching Love Island UK. It’s a fun and ridiculous show that helps me tune out.
Q: What book are you currently reading?
A: I’m currently reading “The Killing Moon,” which is a Norwegian crime novel. I enjoy reading or listening to audiobooks, especially during daily activities or therapy sessions.
Read More: Real Moms Share [4]
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- Handling Your Child’s Diagnosis: Six Things Parents Should Do For Themselves [8]
- A Complete Guide on Positive Behavior Support for Children With Special Needs [9]
- Family Chat: Improving Lives with Positive Behavior Support (PBS) [10]
- 8 Ways to be a Great Advocate For Your Family Member With Special Needs [11]
- How to Get Free From Unrealistic Expectations of Motherhood [12]
- Father’s Perspective: Raising a Child with Special Needs [13]
- Daddy Loves You: A Reminder for Daddies of Children with Special Needs [14]
- Being United, Pampering, and Taking Care of Ourselves [15]
- Avoiding the Power Struggles with Your Child [16]
This post originally appeared on our July/August 2023 Magazine [17]