Stepping In to Understanding and Accepting Differences Through Experiences As a Sibling to a Special Needs Family Member with Elise Horecka

In this episode, Kara steps in with Backlight Productions* choreographer and CYT Nashville Program Director, Elise Horecka. Elise shares with Kara her experience growing up as the younger sister to her oldest sibling, Kari who has Cri du chat, a rare chromosomal syndrome. The two share laughs as Elise recollects fun and funny, unique childhood stories and encourages us all to approach people who are different than us with curiosity and acceptance, even when it is unfamiliar or uncomfortable. Her stories are delightful and her insights are so valuable. Prepare for laughter and a level of heartwarming that is rare. *Backlight Productions is a Nashville, TN based theater company for adults with special needs. Highlights: This is all Elise has ever known, so for her, family modifications for her sister’s needs were and are just normal.  There is so much we can take from these Backlight performers as they are so proud of themselves and focused on the right things. They are excited and proud to be there. It is special for their entire family. If you are willing to be a little uncomfortable, eventually you won’t be, because you will have created a relationship and bond with someone who happens to be a little different than you. Elise shares how it feels when people are awkward, and also when people are well meaning, wanting to lend a hand but it would just be easier to sort it out on their own. Tips for parents to equip their kids to be comfortable interacting with and accepting a person with special needs. Quotes: “It takes time to build understanding and relationship. Everyone deserves that. Just take the time.” “It’s ok to learn about people who you don’t naturally connect with because of the differences you have. Be willing to ask the questions and be uncomfortable in it at first and then eventually, you won’t be because you will have created the relationship and bond.” “I don’t remember what he said, but I definitely remember threatening to beat him up.” (elementary aged Elise in response to a boy making mean comments about her sister) “As a kid it’s hard to explain – “This is my sister, here’s how to act.” You kind of want to have your own life. You don’t want to talk about it or have a whole lesson about it.” “I like when people ask me, ‘What does your sister have?’… I really appreciate friends who want to get to know her. I didn’t realize how much I needed it.” Connect with Elise: Website: https://backlightproductions.org Elise Horecka grew up in Nashville and found a passion for creating and teaching theater and dance. She graduated from Belmont University in 2013 with a degree in Entertainment Industry Studies and Theater. She is the current  Dance Program Director at Backlight Productions and Program Director of CYT Nashville. Both communities give her the opportunity to share her love of the performing arts with adults with special needs and kids, and provide that to people who don't often get to be a part of it.  Connect with Kara: Website: ⁠https://www.steppinginwithkara.com Newsletter: ⁠https://www.karastoltenberg.com/subscribe⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/steppinginwithkara⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/karastoltenberg⁠