Marlene is mom to three adult children – her youngest daughter has autism. In order to better facilitate her daughter’s development, she began college at the age of 40.

EDUCATION

  • Master’s of Science in Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis from Eastern Kentucky University
  • Bachelor’s of Arts from Union Institute and University

Marlene conducted and presented the following research studies on autism at Western Psychological Association Conventions:

  • ​April 2002     Irvine, CA              Autism: Pediatricians’ General Knowledge of Diagnostic Criteria, Treatment, and Prognosis
  • May 2003      Vancouver, BC      Regressive Autism and Seizure Disorders
  • April 2004     Phoenix, AZ          Autism:  Implications of Conflicting Information and Interactive Medications
  • July 2004      Honolulu, HI         Autism and Medications:  Use and Abuse

PERSONAL

I love humor. It is a gift from God that has saved my sanity countless times. In fact, I believe God has a great sense of humor Himself. I’ve seen it in the ironies of my life, such as me being an introvert and my daughter, Hannah, who has autism, a social butterfly. Call me crazy if you want to, but I find that really funny!

​It was not funny however, when Hannah was diagnosed with autism and a seizure disorder. My cares and worries for my family and children, as well as my responsibilities, multiplied exponentially.

​There were wonderful people to support me, yet I had never felt more alone. There were days when my heart cried, “I can’t do all this!” I had no clue that I desperately needed to see – really grasp – the truth of that statement.

​Life is the greatest educator. Eighteen years after Hannah was diagnosed, I’ve finally learned that I could not possibly handle everything on my own. I also learned…

​I am not on my own……….………..…Jesus carries me daily (Psalm 68:19)

I am not “the strong one” ….…………I lean on Him (Psalm 125:1)

I am not helpless……….…..…….……The Holy Spirit empowers me (Acts 1:8)                                                                     

I don’t have to have all the answers…He teaches me what to do (John 14:26)                                                                        

I don’t have to worry……………………I can rest (Psalm 37:5)

I am not a victim…………….…………I am more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37)                                                               

Most of all………………….……….….I am loved! (Romans 8:38-39)