JWoww Shares Raw Memory of Locking Son in Bathroom Amid Autism Meltdown

“Jersey Shore” star Jenni “JWoww” Farley is opening up about a pivotal moment in her parenting journey. In a recent podcast episode of “Not Gonna Lie” with Kylie Kelce, the reality TV star recalled a traumatic airport incident from eight years ago, shortly after her son Greyson was diagnosed with autism.

Farley explained that during a delayed flight home from Florida, Greyson — who was non-verbal at the time — became overwhelmed by the crowds and noise, ran through TSA, and headbutted her in a panic, reportedly. “Nobody explained to me sensory issues and sensory processing,” Farley said. “I had no idea… that he didn’t like lines, and he didn’t like waiting, and he hated delays.”

With no support from airport staff and bystanders filming the scene, Farley locked herself and Greyson in a bathroom to calm him down. “I was hog-tying him at one point just to calm him down,” she shared, describing the moment as heartbreaking and chaotic.

The experience left Farley feeling helpless—until a friend connected her with KultureCity, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with sensory needs.

KultureCity’s Role in Farley’s Healing and Advocacy

After returning home, Farley learned about KultureCity, an organization that offers resources for families navigating sensory processing disorders. They converted a room in her home into a sensory-friendly space and educated her on tools like noise-canceling headphones and visual aids. “They explained to me his diagnosis in a way that the hospitals didn’t,” she said. “That there are gonna be challenges with lights, and lines, and feeling overwhelmed.”

Farley is now a board member at KultureCity and actively works to expand access to sensory rooms and staff training in public spaces. “I want to help so that other moms don’t have to feel the way I felt that day,” she said.

The story resonated with fans, especially parents in the autism community. “As an autism mom, this episode had me in tears. The airport story was SO relatable,” one user commented. Another wrote, “Love that moms support each other in this community. Our children on the spectrum need more kindness and understanding 💙.”

Turning Struggles Into Safe Spaces

In 2021, Farley helped launch a sensory room at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center after recalling a difficult visit with Greyson. Farley, who co-parents Greyson and daughter Meilani with ex-husband Roger Mathews, said the initiative was deeply personal. “We came to Barclays a few years ago… and had to leave early when Greyson became overwhelmed,” she told People. “Now, to be able to attend events and games knowing there’s a safe space for him… is so monumental to me.”

Today, Farley continues to advocate for inclusivity and awareness. “Parenting doesn’t end at age 18,” she previously told Today. “I want to be the parent that my kids call when they’re 70.”