The Bacons discuss their experience with applying for state funding and services for their son, Eric, and the emotional toll it took on them. They highlight the dehumanizing nature of the assessment process and the lack of empathy in the system. The conversation sheds light on the challenges of answering assessment questions and the need for change in the system.TakeawaysEmotional toll on caregiversDehumanizing nature of the assessment processChapters00:00 Celebrating Eric's 22nd Birthday05:38 Emotional Impact of Hard Conversations11:19 Lack of Empathy in the Assessment Process19:08 Frustration with Redundant Documentation25:42 The Need for Change in the System33:46 The Emotional Toll on Parents

Celebrating Eric's 22nd Birthday05:38 Emotional Impact of Hard Conversations11:19 Lack of Empathy in the Assessment Process19:08 Frustration with Redundant Documentation25:42 The Need for Change in the System33:46 The Emotional Toll on Parents

We woke up one day and realized… we’re more than 20 years deep into this wild, beautiful ride.We’ve laughed, cried, struggled, grown, and collected a whole lot of hard-earned wisdom and real-life inspiration along the way.Inspired by the incredible families we’ve met around the world walking a similar path, we’re launching a brand-new podcast built for real talk, real life, and real hope.No fluff.No perfect filters.No scripts.Just honest conversations, practical encouragement, and stories that remind you: you’re not alone, and the path you never expected can become more meaningful than you ever imagined.