In this episode of Rockin the Difference, host Chandra Neal shares the behind-the-scenes story of preparing for international travel with her adult son, Ryan, who is blind and autistic. From a frustrating passport battle that required the help of her congressman, to packing with intention and securing disability accommodations, Chandra walks listeners through the real challenges — and the powerful surprises — she encountered while traveling to Brazil.

This episode is a must-listen for any caregiver who’s ever wondered if big adventures are even possible. They are — and sometimes, they open doors to unexpected growth.

🎯 Topics Covered:

• Navigating the passport process with a special needs adult

• How to advocate with government agencies (and when to call your congressperson)

• Travel accommodations in Brazil for individuals with disabilities

• Emotional growth moments during long-distance travel

• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard and other helpful tools

• Encouragement for caregivers to embrace travel and dream bigger

🧳 You don’t have to keep life small just because it’s hard. Let this story encourage and equip you for your own adventures — near or far.

In this powerful episode of Rockin’ the Difference, I sit down with my dear friend Chris Velona — a devoted father, rare disease advocate, and founder of Project Sebastian, a nonprofit inspired by his son Sebastian, who was diagnosed with Batten disease, a rare and terminal neurodegenerative disorder.

Chris shares his family’s emotional journey, the heartbreaking diagnosis, and how he chose to turn pain into purpose by creating a platform for awareness, connection, and hope. We talk about the emotional toll of caregiving, and what it's like to live day by day when the future is uncertain — yet still filled with love.

Chris also introduces us to tools and communities that have been a source of support, including:

🔗 Project Sebastian: A nonprofit raising awareness and funding for Batten disease and other rare conditions 👉 www.projectsebastian.org

⚡️ BioRecharge Energy Enhancement Systems: Alternative wellness technology supporting cellular healing and energy 👉 www.biorecharge.net

💊 Mila’s Miracle Foundation: Advocating for individualized, gene-targeted medicine to treat rare genetic disorders 👉 www.milasmiracle.org

This episode is for any parent walking a rare or uncertain path — and for anyone who needs a reminder that purpose can rise from even the darkest days.

If this episode moved you, please rate, review, and share. You never know who needs to hear this story.

In this episode, I open up about the early years when first learned my son had special needs—and all the emotions that came with it: grief, fear, uncertainty. If I could sit with that younger version of myself, I’d tell her this...