Episode 3: Disability + Grace

Original Belonging

In episode three, I share my story of learning the meaning of love as I grew up alongside my brother Joe Jr., who was born with Down syndrome in the 1960s, and how our relationship has evolved over the years. I am joined in conversation with Molly Nocon, CEO of Noah Homes, a groundbreaking residential community in San Diego that provides exceptional care and choices for adults with developmental disabilities, the home where my brother Joe resides today.

In the 1960s, a movement swept the nation challenging the stigma around so-called “mental retardation.” For decades, parents were guided to place their children with special needs in institutions–but no more! I discuss how my mother found her voice in advocating for those born with intellectual disabilities as did my otherwise stoic father, a special agent for the FBI. Joe Jr. held the magic key to open peoples’ hearts. He exemplified an unfettered sense of joy. Witnessing his love, yet knowing he was deemed “the other,” I felt compelled to share Joe’s story. My brother, who loved to sing but could not speak, taught me that we communicate in many ways. He inspired my coming-of-age memoir FBI Girl, a love story about family that felt like a part of my personal, divine contract.

In this episode, I also speak with Molly Nocon, CEO of Noah Homes in San Diego, California. Molly is also a sister to a brother born with Down syndrome. She shares stories of her early years and family dynamics and how these through-threads inspire her work today. Noah Homes, set on a beautiful, peaceful campus, exemplifies leadership and caring. It is also groundbreaking in its visionary role around memory care, as many adults living with Down syndrome are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in their later years. Molly speaks to the importance of family and community support and advocacy at the governmental level to maintain the commitment to caring for an exceptional population. With continued heart-centered advocacy, this episode is an inspiration to how we all can contribute to a more loving future for all citizens.

Topics Covered:

(03:38) Growing up with Joe, my brilliant teacher

(10:17) Removing the shame around special needs

(17:45) Embracing my divine contract

(27:19) Caring like we’re all connected

(31:18) Molly Nocon joins me in conversation

(40:13) Advocacy challenges and combatting “institution” stigmas

(50:49) Going from no knowledge to special needs expert

(58:45) Teaching an ethics of care and involvement

Resources Mentioned

• Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution | documentary

Molly Nocon

• Noah Homes | website
• Noah Homes | Instagram

Stay Connected:

• mauraconlon.com
• @orginalbeloning on Instagram
• Maura Conlon on Facebook

Credit:

• Podcast series production by Media Midwife Ahri Golden
• Podcast series launch by The Wave Podcasting

About:

In this series, I explore how the significant influences and archetypal events experienced in our first 14 years of life set the stage for what is most meaningful throughout our adult years. In times of transition, a voice wonders: who am I at the soul level, at my essence? Our earliest resonant moments of awe–what lit us up–offer direct access into the root system of our original belonging.