Returning guests Steve and Deborah Decker join host Ryan Rush once again on Grace in the Chaos for a heartfelt conversation about their family’s journey raising two sons with profound autism and epilepsy—and the story behind Steve’s book, The Blanket: A Mother’s Special Needs Journey.

Like many new parents, Steve and Deborah once received the beloved book Love You Forever when their first child was born. But after both of their sons were diagnosed with profound autism and later epilepsy, the simple life arc portrayed in that story felt far removed from the realities they were living. In response to that experience, Steve wrote The Blanket, a poetic and deeply moving story told through the perspective of a mother caring for her son with severe disabilities. The book captures the raw, unvarnished emotional journey, moments of exhaustion, determination, and even questioning God, while also revealing the powerful love and resilience that shape a family’s path forward.

Unlike many books written to educate the mind of special needs parents, The Blanket was written for the heart and soul of those remarkable families. In this episode, the Deckers share what inspired the book, the lessons their family has learned along the way, and how faith, perseverance, and community have sustained them through life’s most difficult challenges.

Whether you are a parent, caregiver, or simply someone seeking to better understand the realities faced by special needs families, this conversation offers powerful insight, empathy, and hope. Even in the midst of chaos, grace can still be found.

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About the Grace in the Chaos Podcast
Grace in the Chaos is a podcast that provides real-life insight from parents of children with special needs, featuring hosts, Dr. Ryan Rush and Dr. Chris Sneller. Grace in the Chaos is a part of the Empowered Homes Podcast Network. Questions about the podcast? email us at podcast@empowerdhomes.org

In this moving episode, Dr. Rush and Dr. Sneller sit down with Dana and Kristen Mason, parents of McCarthy and Audrey, to hear their powerful story of navigating life with a child on the autism spectrum. From their early days in Lake Charles, Louisiana, to building a supportive life in Houston, the Masons share how their faith, family, and church community have sustained them. We explore the realities of raising a non-verbal child with special needs, the shift from asking “why us?” to embracing purpose, and the deep lessons in patience, presence, and joy they’ve learned along the way. This episode is a testament to resilience, love, and the power of community.

About the Grace in the Chaos Podcast
Grace in the Chaos is a podcast that provides real-life insight from parents of children with special needs, featuring hosts, Dr. Ryan Rush and Dr. Chris Sneller. Grace in the Chaos is a part of the Empowered Homes Podcast Network. Questions about the podcast? email us at podcast@empowerdhomes.org

In this episode, Shoby and Dolly John share their journey of adoption, raising their son Jonathan, who was diagnosed with autism at age seven. They discuss the challenges they’ve faced, from navigating Jonathan’s behavioral needs to finding support within their church and community. Despite the obstacles, the Johns emphasize the joy they've found in their faith, family, and the unique blessings Jonathan brings into their lives, highlighting the importance of love, perseverance, and trusting in God’s plan.

About the Grace in the Chaos Podcast
Grace in the Chaos is a podcast that provides real-life insight from parents of children with special needs, featuring hosts, Dr. Ryan Rush and Dr. Chris Sneller. Grace in the Chaos is a part of the Empowered Homes Podcast Network. Questions about the podcast? email us at podcast@empowerdhomes.org