4. Just Keep Swimming-Tamara Lloyds journey with son Kai and his high functioning Autism.

Tamara Lloyd, together with her husband Jono, are raising three beautiful children in Goondiwindi, Queensland. Life definitely has its challenges with their eldest son Kai (13) having high functioning autism. In this heartfelt conversation with host Lisa McKelvey, Tamara opens up about their family's unique journey.

Kai is non-verbal, and in her 13 years of raising him, Tamara has never heard him say the words "I love you." Only a handful of times has she heard him say the name "mum." Yet, as Tamara explains, their bond is incredibly special and deep, communicated through other means beyond words.

The episode title "Just Keep Swimming" reflects the family's philosophy of perseverance and finding joy in the journey, even when the path isn't what they expected. Tamara shares insights about the early signs they noticed in Kai, the diagnosis process, and how they've navigated the education system and therapy options in a rural setting.

Tamara offers candid reflections on the challenges of raising a child with autism, including managing meltdowns, adapting family activities, and helping Kai's siblings understand and support their brother. She also highlights the unexpected gifts that have come from their experience – increased patience, appreciation for different forms of communication, and a tight-knit family unit that celebrates each small victory.

This episode provides valuable perspective for families touched by autism and offers the wider community a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and the different ways love can be expressed.