“The importance of teaching self-advocacy as a life skill has proven valuable over the years raising a child with special needs,” says author Lori Ciccarelli Stotko, MPS, and mother to 29-year old JJ on the autism spectrum.
 
Join the Santa Maria Library on Saturday, 12/1^st at 11:00 for a presentation by the author on her newly published book, “Myself, My Responsibility – tools to self-advocate.” This workbook is for all ages and abilities to inspire and encourage self-advocacy. The author, a former elementary school teacher and board member for the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, shares in the book a simple 4-step process she created to help her son apply his gifts and strengths to overcome challenges while communicating special needs effectively and respectfully.
 
In the book, the author has teamed up with her son JJ, the illustrator, to share life experiences and fun activities to overcome challenges for best possible outcomes. Together they want to make a difference and published this book in celebration of their 10-year anniversary documentary film release of “JJ’s Journey, a Journey about Autism” in 2008. As a gift, all who attend the library’s presentation on 12/1^st will receive a complimentary copy of their documentary film DVD of “JJ’s Journey.”
 
“Myself, My Responsibility” is available on Amazon or may be purchased at the library’s event for the author’s signing.
 
About the author
Lori holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a concentration in Journalism, a Master’s degree in Leadership, certification in Spiritual Direction with specialties in grief recovery and pastoral crisis intervention. She currently is employed as a hospital Patient Experience Manager and Spiritual Care Chaplain; and is Founder and CEO of Transforming Lives Advocacy. She and her husband are residents of Orcutt.
 
To learn more, visit www.autismjourney.net and www.transforminglivesadvocacy.com