In this deeply moving episode of Autism for Badass Moms, Rashidah welcomes Kecia Johnson, a 42-year-old mother, 5-year colorectal cancer survivor, autism advocate, and an eight-time author from Denver, Colorado. She shares a journey that is almost impossible to imagine. Kecia shares the unimaginable journey that began in early 2020 when severe rectal pain was repeatedly dismissed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—until an emergency biopsy revealed colorectal cancer.
What followed was months of chemotherapy, radiation, severe treatment complications, second-degree burns, isolation, and a fight to survive.
But surviving cancer was only the beginning.
Kecia opens up about the lasting effects of treatment, including radiation toxicity, nerve damage, brittle bones, early menopause, chronic pain, and mobility challenges. As she struggled to rebuild her own health, she also began recognizing developmental and sensory differences in her daughter, Journei. Kecia pursued evaluations that ultimately led to an autism diagnosis.
About Our Guest
Kecia Johnson is the creator of the Cancer Could NEVA healing movement. Her journey is rooted in resilience, faith, and transformation. She uses her voice to break stigmas around trauma, chronic illness, and neurodiversity; creating safe spaces where women can heal, be seen, and rise boldly in their truth.
Kecia also founded Kolourful MUVA to empower mothers of children with autism and special needs. Providing emotional support, resources, and income tools, she helps women move from survival to purpose. Through international speaking, podcasting, and community work, Kecia demonstrates how to rebuild and thrive with impact, even in the hardest seasons.
Kecia resides in Colorado with her family.
Connect with Kecia:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/iamkeciaj
Facebook: iamkeciaj
Tik Tok: iamkeciaj
In this episode we discuss:
00:00 Badass Moms Welcome
00:57 Global Community Thanks
01:57 Meet Keisha Johnson
05:49 Early Symptoms Dismissed
08:29 Cancer Diagnosis Shock
11:14 Chemo and Radiation
15:50 Isolation
20:48 Natural Remedies Turning Point
30:11 New Setbacks
35:24 Advocacy and Sensory Clues
40:06 Back To California
41:51 Autism Diagnosis
44:45 Moving to Colorado
45:58 Mom Support System
48:27 Cancer Recovery Reality
49:45 Advocacy Awakening
53:00 Judgment and Stigma
01:01:07 School Readiness Plan
01:02:38 Ignorance
01:06:39 Kolourful MUVA Mission
01:08:59 Launching and Resources
01:13:54 Badass Advice
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