S2E22: Placed for a Reason - Love, Loss and Parenting Through Autism with Shamin Sanders

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This week on the Show Me the Way podcast, I sit down with my high school friend, Shamin Sanders—someone I remember as incredibly inclusive, kind-hearted, and full of joy. Even though we haven't seen each other in person in many years, Shamin is one of those people who has felt deeply connected to my family’s journey after Nathan’s diagnosis. She is truly someone God placed in my life for a reason.

Shamin is a mom of two daughters. Her youngest has been diagnosed with autism and is nonverbal, which means communicating her thoughts, feelings, and physical needs can be incredibly challenging. Shamin, her husband, their older daughter, and a loving circle of family and friends have spent years learning what works best for their family and how to best support their daughter.

However, recently, Shamin experienced another profound hardship—the loss of both of her parents within a very short time. She lovingly describes them as the mayor and first lady of her family, and their absence deeply changed the way her household functioned, especially when it came to care and support for her daughter.

In this episode, Shamin vulnerably shares the emotional toll of grief, the exhaustion that comes with constant caregiving, and what it was like to leave a career she loved so she could stay home and be fully available for her daughter. While every day brings new challenges—and often requires a pivot—Shamin and her husband have learned how to lean on one another, grow stronger as partners, and create the best life possible for both of their girls.

Shamin’s love for her family shines through every part of our conversation. The wisdom and encouragement she shares are powerful for anyone facing adversity—whether you’re navigating a child’s diagnosis, grieving loved ones, or walking through a season that feels overwhelming. She reminds us how important it is to seek support, take time for ourselves, give our partners space to do the same, and intentionally build a safe, loving, and trusting home base.

I know you’ll love this episode and learn just as much as I did. 💛

Thank you for joining us for the Show Me the Way Podcast. We truly appreciate you turning into today's episode about overcoming adversity and finding your path. We hope it brought you new insights, empowered you with perspective, and inspired you to find joy in your journey. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and share it with someone who could use a little motivation. Until next time, keep seeking the light and showing the way.