Here at Washington Autism Alliance when we think of warmth and dedication, we all think of Misha Trivedi. With over two years officially on staff and a history of volunteering at WAA since 2015, Misha is an integral part of the organization's fabric. Her journey is one of commitment, resilience, and a profound empathy that stems from her own experiences as a mother navigating the complexities of raising a child with ASD.
"Misha has a heart for helping others, and it shows in her tireless effort to support all families who contact us,” explains Bev Crusing, Family Navigator at WAA. Bev’s sentiments are echoed by every staff member at WAA. Trish Thrush, our Operations manager says, “Misha has a way of making everyone feel seen and heard. Her kindness and understanding are a source of comfort for our families.”
Week after week, we get messages of thanks from families that have worked with Misha. “You helped me with my own mental instability... I appreciate your help and will NEVER forget you," said one WAA Member who, after working with Misha, was able to access the resources she needed to ensure her child had affordable health insurance.
Before becoming a superstar Intake Coordinator at WAA, Misha was, first and foremost, a mother in search of support. When her son, now 22, was diagnosed with ASD in the early 2000’s, Misha faced a daunting lack of resources and understanding. Moving to Washington and in search of support, she reached out to WAA, which provided the much-needed guidance to settle into her new environment. Misha recalls, "I was new to Washington and looking for resources in the new state. WAA helped us set up resources, and that’s how our journey began." This pivotal moment marked the start of Misha's deep connection with the organization, which would become her professional home.
Misha’s journey of understanding her son’s needs was fraught with challenges. Diagnosed in Florida, Misha's son was initially non-verbal, and the lack of local support services made early years incredibly tough. "It felt like somebody had punched us," Misha describes the moment of diagnosis. Over time, her determination to provide a better life for her son led her to the supportive environment of WAA, where she found not just help, but a community. "As a parent, the worry will never go away, but now I feel like I’m not alone," she says, highlighting the immense relief and solidarity WAA provided.
At WAA, Misha’s role transcends beyond mere employment. Her work is driven by a genuine desire to connect with and support other mothers facing similar challenges. "I feel like I’m connecting with special moms like us," Misha shares. Her personal experience enables her to empathize deeply with the families she helps, offering not just practical advice but also emotional support. Misha believes that every situation is unique, and she listens to each story to tailor her support accordingly.
For Misha, the most rewarding aspect of her work is knowing she has made a difference, however small, in someone’s life. She recalls a moment of impact where she advised a mother on Medicaid eligibility, allowing her to secure better coverage and more time with her child. When reflecting on what fuels her passion and dedication,"[It’s] knowing that I’ve made the tiny difference in somebody’s life,” Misha says.
As the new year approaches, Misha is excited about embarking on a new hobby—sewing. Having recently purchased her first sewing machine, she is eager to learn and grow, one stitch at a time. This personal project symbolizes her philosophy of continuous growth and positivity, both in her personal life and professional journey.
We are so excited to spotlight Misha Trivedi, who truly embodies the spirit of WAA through her unwavering commitment, compassionate heart, and relentless pursuit of better support for all families navigating the world of autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and an unyielding belief in the power of community.