Raising Rain: A Story of Autism, Awareness, and Unbreakable Bonds with Sylnita Livas-Bougere

In this episode of This Ability Podcast, we welcome Sylnita Livas-Bougere, an educator, advocate, and devoted mother from Thibodaux, Louisiana. After relocating to Lafayette following Hurricane Ida, Sylnita has dedicated her life to autism awareness and special needs advocacy, inspired by her 13-year-old son, Rain, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. She shares her journey of navigating autism, her passion for educating children about neurodiversity, and her work as an author. Her children's books, My Friend Rain and My Friend Rain and The Hurricane, introduce young readers to the world of autism through relatable storytelling, helping them understand and embrace differences with empathy and kindness. 

Beyond children's literature, Sylnita has also created resources for parents of children with special needs, including Thriving and Surviving 101: The Journal for Special Needs Parents, a guided journal designed to provide emotional support and an outlet for caregivers. In this episode, she discusses the mental and emotional challenges faced by parents, the importance of community, and her upcoming book My Cup is Half Full: Positive Affirmations for the Special Needs Parent, a collection of daily encouragements and reflections aimed at strengthening and uplifting caregivers. Sylnita’s powerful message of resilience, faith, and advocacy is a must-listen for anyone in the special needs community seeking inspiration and connection.