Leading Ladies: BOZENA GASIOR
Meet Bozena Gasior: Mother. Wife. Author. Linguist. Educator. Motivational Speaker. Relentless Advocate. Wearer of many hats. A woman whose unwavering determination and love have transformed not only her family’s life but also the lives of countless individuals navigating the challenges of disability. She teaches German and English as a second language at the University of Tampa and St. Petersburg College. But perhaps her most profound role is that of a voice for individuals with disabilities. Inspired by her son Milosz, Bozena has dedicated her life to building a world of inclusion and opportunity.
In 2005, Bozena's world changed forever when her youngest son, Milosz Gasior, was diagnosed with severe to moderate autism at the age of two and a half. Grappling with fear and grief, she found herself mourning the loss of the life she had envisioned for her child. Yet, in the face of this devastating news, Bozena found a new purpose: to ensure her son could thrive against all odds.
The Healing Power of Music
Bozena’s journey with Milosz is one of resilience and discovery. When Milosz was seven, a simple electric piano opened a doorway to connection and self-expression. By pressing keys, Milosz found a way to communicate, breaking through the barriers imposed by autism.
It was not an easy path. Early music teachers underestimated his potential, dismissing him as a “special needs” student. Bozena refused to accept this. She found Mr. Fred, a demanding piano teacher who, despite initial hesitation, agreed to teach Milosz. Over 12 years later, Mr. Fred remains his teacher, building a lasting bond that has helped Milosz flourish. Today, Milosz is an innovative change maker. He graduated as the first piano major with autism from the prestigious Pinellas County Center for the Arts, achieving academic honors despite significant challenges. His story of perseverance and talent has earned him accolades, including the title of "Mr. Inspirational" from Help Us Gather (HUG).
Sharing Their Story
Bozena’s advocacy extends far beyond her family. She shares their journey through her book, I Heard the Light: A Mother’s Story of Her Son’s Journey Through Autism to Self-Expression, and her TEDx Talk, which has touched audiences worldwide. She challenges the stigma surrounding disability and reminds us of the incredible potential waiting to be unlocked when individuals are given a chance. As Bozena says: "Never give up and never accept ‘no’ as the first response. Someone will take a chance on you, your child, or your loved one. Be the person who gives that chance to someone else."
A Vision for the Future
Bozena’s work is driven by a singular vision: to leave a better, more inclusive world for her son and others. Her story reminds us that advocacy, determination, and love can light the way, even in the darkest times. Bozena and Milosz continue to inspire through their upcoming projects. A documentary on Milosz’s life is in the works, and he will perform at the Polish Consulate in Washington, D.C., this month. Every week, he volunteers at the Moffitt Cancer Center, bringing joy through his music.
I met Bozena earlier this January through our mutual friend, Robin Lally, Founder of Help Us Gather. She can captivate any room she walks into. And when she speaks, people listen. Over the past 12 months, we’ve been excited to be a part of their journey, witnessing their growth firsthand and are immensely grateful for strangers who have become supportive friends. We are honored to celebrate Bozena Gasior as one of our Leading Ladies, a beacon of hope and a champion for those who need it most.
“Walk with the dreamers, the believers, the courageous, the cheerful, the planners, the doers, the successful people with their heads in the clouds and their feet on the ground. Let their spirit ignite a fire within you to leave this world better than when you found it.”
Inspired by Bozena’s story? Share this with someone who needs to hear it, and let’s keep the light shining bright.
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Photo Courtesy: Bozena Gasior