#292: Son With Autism Helps Parents See God's Grace As They Start New Ministry

Globally, 1 in 100 people are on the autism spectrum. In the US, it's 1 in 31 children or 1 in 45 adults (8.5 million in America with autism). This week's guests on "Run The Race" are parents who have faced it for nearly two decades, with their son Drew diagnosed at age 2. Now, they're helping to start a new program in Columbus GA through an established ministry. And they're very open in this conversation about the struggles of caring for someone with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), including how it impacts marriage and the community. (5:40) Retired Army Brigadier General Andy and Nikki Hilmes go deep about learning their son had autism - from anger and focusing on fixing...to being advocates and praying and discovering resources. They have key advice for other parents with a special needs relative. (21:30) How faith played a role in this journey...from being cautious and wanting to protect Drew to allowing others to bless him with God's grace, realizing he makes their life fuller. There are new trends in society about autism too. (27:37) There also has to be a focus on keeping the marriage strong and not neglecting your other kids (their daughters joke their brother has "autism privilege"). It's a busy life, so Andy and Nikki divide and conquer. Sounds like the military. The GEN also discusses how his 27+ years in the Army helped him learn how to handle tough times at home and how having a son with autism made him a much better leader. (37:45) Nikki, the founder and former owner of the Autism Learning Center in West GA, is now opening a branch of Wesley Glen Ministries (established by the church) in Columbus this summer, with a divine mission from above to provide important services for those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. They talk about how this program will benefit the community and vice versa. They are hosting an open house on June 23 from 4:30-7pm at 900 Front Avenue in Columbus. Learn more at https://wesleyglenministries.com/services/wesleyglen-columbus/. (51:12) We close out our pod chat talking about self-care through exercise at the gym or through family hiking, how fitness benefits both caregivers and those on the spectrum. (57:07) I close out the episode in prayer. Thanks for listening and tell others about "Run The Race." Subscribe to or follow the show. We've been providing inspiration and insight on faith and fitness on this show for almost 7 years now.