CALDWELL, NJ – For Yomi Karade of Caldwell, her life as a mother of a special needs child has been “an incredible journey.” And it’s not over yet, she says.
Karade, originally from England, plans to launch Special Needs Fitness Magazine, which she founded, this October. And if she does, she hopes it will give a big boost to people like her son, who has been diagnosed with autism, albinism, low vision, and multiple food allergies.
“So many of us have loved ones with a disability or special needs,” Karade said. “I find it very important that they are celebrated and honored in the same way as those who have no challenges or differences. In the past this has not entirely been the case.”
“We hope this release can help fill that void,” said Karade.
The magazine will be available in the US, UK and Canada. It will also be available online at www.specialneedsfitnessmagazine.com. There are opportunities for advertising, sponsorship and volunteering. For more information, contact info@specialneedsfitnessmagazine.com.
According to Karade, your own experience brings challenges – but also many joys. And one of them is the cooperative spirit of the people she met along the way.
Karade has been a certified personal trainer since 2017 and is a provider of the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities. She trains adults with and without disabilities as part of her Inclusive Fitness Programs (IFP) at Embracing Fitness in Little Falls, at home and through Zoom.
Even during last year’s lockdown, Karade kept their training and courses online to keep their customers well-being. Often times, her son eagerly took part in group Zumba, yoga, and strength training classes.
So far, several people have offered to contribute their expertise and stories to the magazine, including personal trainers, doctors, nurses, therapists, nonprofits and health professionals. Karade was “overjoyed,” she said.
“It taught me the power of love and the sweet blessings, small and large, that come with this beautiful community with special needs / disabilities,” said Karade.
Karade wanted to get the Special Needs Fitness Magazine out before the pandemic broke out in March last year. Now the start for autumn 2021 is officially back on track. And it’s a great relief, she said.
“The last year or so has not been easy for either of us,” said Karade. “It made me focus on the greater need of all of us to care about what we put in our bodies, the health of our minds, and how we take care of our bodies.”
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