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On this episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse dives deep into the critical role of self-development for fathers raising children on the autism spectrum.

As the lifelong caregiver of his 12-year-old son Damien—who is nonverbal and requires full-time care—Mark shares his journey of acceptance, physical transformation, and mental resilience.

He explores how fitness, faith, and self-care are not just personal luxuries but essential tools for sustaining a lifetime of caregiving.

From unconventional training methods to breathwork, meditation, and therapy, Mark reveals the strategies that have helped him prepare for the long road ahead.

Whether you’re struggling with burnout, feeling isolated, or simply looking for practical ways to stay strong for your family, this episode is packed with insights and encouragement to help you thrive—not just survive—as an autism dad.

TOPICS COVERED
- Accepting the reality of lifelong caregiving for a child with severe autism
- Why self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential for long-term resilience
- Functional fitness: unconventional training for real-life strength
- Diet and inflammation: how nutrition impacts energy and well-being
- The power of faith, therapy, and meditation in navigating fatherhood
- Finding support through community, church, and self-improvement
- How to start small: one self-development habit at a time

QUOTES
"Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s a requirement if you’re going to take care of your family for the long haul."
"I don’t train to look good—I train to be strong enough to care for my son, no matter how big he gets."
"It doesn’t matter which self-improvement habit you start with—just pick one and begin."

DISCLAIMER
Every child's autism journey is unique. This video shares one family's personal experience and is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.

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