This week we interview an incredible super mama, Eliana Tardio. As an international advocate for children with Down syndrome and a mom of two, Eliana has taken social media by storm, showing her followers that people with down syndrome are normal like the rest of us. She talks to us about her personal journey on understanding her children’s needs and how she created a career by advocating for them and what we can do to share their story to help others understand the power of their voices and the endless opportunities we all have when we work hard to make our dreams come true.
More about Eliana: “My name is Eliana Tardio and through my blog, I share advice and inspiration with over 100,000 unique visitors a month. I have been blogging since 2007 after my second child was born and I have grown on social media along with my children through the technological and social media revolution. We are digital natives and as a family, we are recognized in the community as tough leaders and strong activists transforming the world through the power of social media.
My two children, Emir and Ayelen, are the inspiration and the reason behind this site and everything I do. They were born with Down syndrome, and in my attempt to learn and give them the best possible life, I started this journey of love and growth that has inspired hundreds of thousands who follow us here and on our social media platforms with a combined following of 1M people from all over the world.
I have a bachelor’s in Communications with a major in Legal Studies and a Master’s in Marketing and Science of Legal Studies. My passion is communications for sure, and my mission is to use my voice to build a more inclusive world for all along with my children. I work as the Director of Communications for the Parent Training and Information Centers in Florida and as team member of the National Center for the Systemic Improvement of the Education in the US.
As an international speaker, I have visited more than 12 countries to share my knowledge and passion for education to thousands of people. I provide as well training on advocacy and leadership to several organizations nationwide, and I share my story to help immigrants like me understand the power of their voices and the endless opportunities we have when we work hard to make our dreams come true.”
Gems 💎 Dropped During Our Interview with Eliana
As parents, we don’t see anything else besides our children - Paulina
No one understands the love of a parent. - Paulina
Erasing the labels is never the answer. They are persons with disabilities and they are apart of many peoples lives that we know. We don’t need to change the words, we need to change the perception. - Eliana
In order to give to my children, I need to give to myself - Eliana
We should encourage everyone to be uncomfortable because thats how we grow. - Bricia
Where can we get resources and support if we know our child needs help? Advice from Eliana
Search online for a disabilities support group in your community.
Look for a group that will activate your desire to become an advocate for your child. When you’re ready, look for those who will make you feel comfortable and share info, questions, etc.
Take advantage of government resources, training and the information center in your community. Learn more about the Individuals with Disabilities Act here.
Follow influential people in your community who are working towards the same goal as you - like Eliana!
Links
Learn more about Eliana, her work and how you can become an advocate for disability rights on her website.
Follow Eliana and her children, Emir and Ayelen, on Instagram @elianatardio.
