Gwen Harshaw’s Story of Hope and Advocacy

In this inspiring episode of The Direct Line, Katrina Sacay sits down with advocate, speaker, and Lighthouse Cove board member Gwen Harshaw to talk about her family’s journey after her son Zayne was diagnosed with autism at age four.After being told Zayne might never read or live independently, Gwen and her family chose hope over limitation. What followed was an extraordinary journey through music, advocacy, and inclusion. Today, Zayne is an award-winning professional guitarist and founder of the band Blue Spectrum, using music to change perceptions about autism and disability.Gwen shares powerful stories about parenting through uncertainty, discovering hidden strengths, the importance of person-centered support, and why diagnoses should never define a person’s future. The conversation also explores the impact of music therapy, community inclusion, open mic programs for people with disabilities, and the mission behind Lighthouse Cove.This episode is a moving reminder that every person deserves the opportunity to pursue purpose, passion, and connection.About Band Together Central OhioBand Together Central Ohio (BTCO) is a monthly autism-friendly open mic in Gahanna, Ohio focused on creativity, community, and inclusion.Inspired by her son Zayne’s early experiences navigating traditional open mic environments, Gwen Harshaw created a space where performers of all abilities feel welcomed and supported.Through a partnership with the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and their Band Together program, BTCO launched in August 2022, bringing this inclusive model to Central Ohio.Tagline: Open Mic. Open Mind. Open Heart.Event DetailsBTCO is held on the second Sunday of each month at Gatsby’s Bar & Grill.The event welcomes musicians, poets, comedians, and performers of all experience levels. It is designed to be a sensory-aware, judgment-free environment that supports both first-time and experienced performers.Why It MattersBTCO is more than an open mic. It is helping build a more inclusive arts community by removing barriers and creating opportunities for neurodiverse individuals to share their talents and stories.Gwen’s WorkGwen Harshaw is also a consultant with the International Council on Development and Learning.ICDL is dedicated to advancing human development and is best known as the home of the DIR®/DIRFloortime® model, an evidence-based, relationship-centered approach used to support autistic individuals and others with developmental differences.Learn More and ConnectContact Gwen Harshaw: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/bandtogethercentralohio/Local coverage:Uniquely Gahanna – Resident SpotlightBand Together Central Ohio: Autism-friendly open mic held monthly