Hi everyone! My name is Sandra Velazquez, and I’m so excited to join Miami Mom Collective as a contributor. I’m an autism mom, wife, children’s book author, and longtime elementary teacher. As a self-labeled introvert, writing and books have always been a way for me to share what’s on my heart. I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with other moms here and share pieces of my story.
Miami
I’m proud to say I was born and raised in Miami. I’m a first-generation American with Cuban roots. I have a deep appreciation for the sacrifices that my grandparents and parents made to give us the chance to experience freedom. Miami is home.
I spent my college days in Central Florida, but I always knew my heart belonged back here. I missed the vibrant culture, delicious food, and family (but not the traffic). What I love most about Miami is the diversity. Our city is filled with families from different backgrounds and cultures, and I love that my son—just like I did—is growing up in a place where differences are part of everyday life.
Mom
Motherhood has been the most beautiful and transformative journey of my life. My husband and I got married in 2017 and were excited to find out we would be growing our family in 2019. Our parenting journey started with a bang, like so many others, at the onset of COVID.
Shortly after, my son received his autism diagnosis. This moment shifted the trajectory of our lives. With it comes challenges but also intense moments of joy and beauty. Carter inspires so much of what I do. As an autism mom, I’ve learned that parenting often looks a little different than what you imagined. I’ve come to appreciate every victory no matter how small. Carter has helped me prioritize the things that truly matter. Watching him grow, learn, and navigate his autism journey has inspired me to become an advocate for inclusion and understanding both in my personal and professional life.
Collective
Community means everything, especially when you’re navigating motherhood! There are so many moments where we need encouragement, support, and connection with other moms who understand. Motherhood can sometimes feel isolating as you are navigating the challenges that inevitably come our way. It can feel like you are the only one going through it—especially in a social media world that makes every family seem “perfect” and put together. This is what excites me most about being part of Miami Mom Collective. I’m looking forward to sharing real stories and real experiences of motherhood, and more personally, my journey as a mom to a neurodivergent child. I’m grateful to be part of a space where we can support each other, laugh, cry, and learn together along the way.
