Growing Up With MED13L: Life at 14

Growing Up with MED13L: Life at 14

In this episode of Voices of MED13L, we continue our Growing Up with MED13L series with an honest look at the teenage years. Host Vanessa Dias is joined by Chelsea and Vern Klassen, who share what life looks like today for their 14-year-old daughter, Caitlynn.

They offer a candid glimpse into Caitlynn’s world—from her communication journey with AAC and experiences in school to friendships, family dynamics, and increasing independence. Chelsea and Vern also speak openly about the realities of raising a teen with complex needs, including balancing support with autonomy, navigating puberty, and thinking ahead to the future—while celebrating the joy, personality, and strengths that define who Caitlynn is.

For families earlier in their MED13L journey, this episode provides something invaluable: perspective on what the teenage years can look like, along with reassurance and hope for the road ahead.

💬 In this episode, we discuss:

•  Communication challenges and breakthroughs with AAC 
•  School supports and learning in a modified curriculum 
•  Social development, friendships, and sibling relationships 
•  Independence in daily living and life skills 
•  Navigating puberty and healthcare decisions 
•  Long-term planning and redefining expectations 

💛 A powerful conversation about growth, grief, resilience, and the beauty of meeting your child exactly where they are.

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Resources
Be Counted in the 2025 Census: med13l.org/research-hub/join-med13l-research-opportunities/med13l-registry-enrollment

Community Checklist: Google Drive Link

CRID: thecrid.org

Citizen Health: citizen.health/partners/med13l-foundation

Simons Searchlight: https://research.simonssearchlight.org/account/create

Rare-X: rare-x.org/med13l

Website: med13l.org

Facebook: facebook.com/med13lfoundation

Instagram: instagram.com/med13lfoundation

YouTube: youtube.com/@med13lfoundation/videos

Glossary: med13l.org/knowledge-base/glossary

Music Credit:
Intro and outro music for the Voices of MED13L Foundation podcast was composed and performed by Sophie Seaver, sibling of...