I’m looking so forward to introducing my listeners to Lorri Unumb, who has a stellar resume and is packed full of experience. She has a very specific area of expertise due to her background as a lawyer and advocate; as well as mother to three boys, including two very different sons on the autism spectrum. This week’s podcast is all about ABA insurance and funding for autism coverage.
Lorri is perhaps best known for her work as an advocate for autism therapy funding, but she fell into her calling. She didn’t originally set out to make a change in the community; instead she was focused on her own first born son, Ryan. She was shocked when her family’s insurance didn’t cover his ABA therapy, and even though her family was able to afford it, she couldn’t quit thinking about the families that weren’t able to afford the life changing therapy.
So she started petitioning for change. As a lawyer she used her connections to get Ryan’s Law passed in the state of South Carolina, and eventually after a two year battle, her plan succeeded.
Even as an autism mother Lorri’s experience has been unique. Her first born son, Ryan, recently turned 18 but he was diagnosed with severe autism right before his second birthday. ABA treatment has altered his life for the better, though, and the change in him is amazing. Meanwhile her youngest son was also diagnosed with autism, but Lorri says that the difference between them are like night and day. Her youngest son blends in well in society, and when describing him, Lorri says, “He is extremely intelligent. He has a vocabulary that’s far more sophisticated than my own.” Her youngest son even finds a sense of pride in his diagnoses, using it to motivate him to try even harder.
In closing, I ask Lorri about her self-care habits. Her answer? “Lower your standards.” Sometimes the homework doesn’t get finished. Sometimes the dishes aren’t put away. Sometimes the dog doesn’t get walked. And that’s okay. Move with compassion. We’re only human, and as long as we’re doing our best, then everything will fall into place. If you like this podcast, then check out my podcast where I talk with a dad reflecting on marriage & coping with autism.
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