Welcome to Week 41 of The 52 Week Love Project – Acts of Kindness. The project designed to recognize 52 inspiring humans who are giving back to our community – whether in a small way or by creating a movement for change and inspiration.
Meet Monique Cain the founder of 3MT Media – The Everyday Autism Series – Author, Blogger and Autism Advocate.
When asked the expression the helps her most, Monique said:
‘Do your best at whatever you do in life. You never know what is around the corner… Follow your dreams. Don’t let anyone dull your sparkle or tell you otherwise and ‘Never Give Up…!'”
WHERE DID IT ALL BEGIN?
My serious writing began after both of my two children were diagnosed with Autism at age 3 & 2, now 10 & 7 years old. After initially using writing as a major form of therapy, I realised I had an ongoing story to tell that could really help others too! The major turning point was after a little boy in my daughters kinder class said my daughter ‘Madi was dumb & didn’t know anything…’ I really didn’t know what to say, especially to a 5-year-old, and so The Everyday Autism Series began…
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I write and publish books about Autism. I blog about our day to day life and experiences and pass on helpful and relevant information. I am a strong Autism Advocate. I help support 2 local Autism Organisations, fundraising for Abacus Learning Centre and The Light Up Autism Foundation. I also speak at seminars and help to raise Autism Awareness.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU?
My children have always been my biggest inspiration. Wanting to help them as much as I can and be the best mother I can be. I wanted to give them a voice… Then, to be able to help other children and families in a similar situation, turning a negative into a positive and giving purpose to what we had experienced. I thought I could inspire others by sharing our story, my personal thoughts and feelings and all of the knowledge we had gained from various therapists etc.
HOW DO YOU GET PAST SELF DOUBT?
I get passed my self-doubt by reflecting on how far our family has progressed and knowing that I really could be helping others to make their lives easier too. It is particularly difficult at times, considering I am exposing myself and our family on an extremely personal and public level but remind my self of the impact I could be making…!
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHERS WHO WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE/CHANGE IN THE WORLD?
Go for it! Follow your dreams and your passion when you find it! Passing on valuable knowledge and experiences that can help others has a very positive effect. It is such an amazing feeling to see the impact you can have and is so rewarding and for filling in so many ways!
DO YOU HAVE A QUOTE OR EXPRESSION THAT YOU LIVE BY?
Do your best at whatever you do in life. You never know what is around the corner… Follow your dreams. Don’t let anyone dull your sparkle or tell you otherwise and ‘Never Give Up…!’
WHAT ELSE DO YOU DO?
I help to organise various fundraising events, planning and sourcing donations. I have helped to raise over $50,000 for local Autism Organisations. Running 10km Run Melbourne’s (on several occasions) sourcing sponsors, Climbing 7000 Steps of the MCG for Stadium Stomp, organising fun runs, Bunnings BBQ’s, tin shaking at traffic lights, Gala dinners and I have donated over 100 of my own books so far to raffles and other people to raise money too.
I also helped to initiate ‘All Abilities’ dance classes at my local dance studio for kids and adults with special needs.
I encourage other people to seek professional help and support to improve their mental health and encourage them to seek the best available assistance for their children. There really is so much help available but it is up to the individual or the parent to make that happen.
HOW CAN OTHERS HELP/GET INVOLVED?
Our local Autism organisations are always looking for donations and event opportunities to raise funds and awareness.
Any donations or ideas would be greatly appreciated! Please feel free to email me- media3mt@outlook.com
Other people can get involved by following my social media pages for help and advice. I am happy for people to private message me through my website, Facebook page or Instagram to chat to them personally.
www.theeverydayautismseries.com.au
www.facebook.com/theeverydayautismseries
www.instagram.com/theeverydayautismseries
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