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'Ain't That a Mother': Author Adiba Nelson takes an honest look at motherhood, disability and loss

“Ain’t That a Mother: Postpartum, Palsy and Everything in Between” became available in paperback on June 6, 2023.

There are certain subjects lots of people don’t want to talk about. And there are definitely subjects many of us would rather not share with complete strangers. But that is not the outlook Adiba Nelson has.

The author, speaker, disability rights advocate and former burlesque performer has a new book that tackles a bunch of the kinds of personal experiences many of us would prefer to keep to ourselves. It’s called, “Ain’t That a Mother: Postpartum, Palsy and Everything in Between.” Nelson describes it as being about getting through, being honest with yourself and not letting anything stop you.

The book includes stories about her mom, as well as her daughter, who was born with cerebral palsy which affects her fine motor, gross motor and communication skills.

The Show spoke with Nelson recently and asked how she takes the approach of saying what’s on her mind when that stuff can be pretty personal.

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Mark Brodie is a co-host of The Show, KJZZ’s locally produced news magazine. Since starting at KJZZ in 2002, Brodie has been a host, reporter and producer, including several years covering the Arizona Legislature, based at the Capitol.