Snapchat...The New Adventures of an Autism Mom

Add me on Snapchat! Username: drmarquisgrant https://www.snapchat.com/add/drmarquisgrant

Thank You for the Rejection

To Whom it may concern, I wanted to take the time to thank you for the rejection letter that you sent regarding a grant for my autism awareness organization. While it may seem strange to have someone thank you for NOT doing something, your denial is my motivation. Yes, initially I was a little bummed out. I mean "rejection" is something I think about in a dating situation. Being rejected by THAT guy. I was even a little perturbed by the go-to statement about the "other" parents with special needs children who cosigned on your rejection. Your determination that there are other organizations out there doing the exact same thing without acknowledging the WAIT LISTS for those organizations. It takes about 6-12 months just to have your application processed or to receive services. In fact, we need more organizations to serve the 3 million plus people who are diagnosed with autism.
But I slowly began to see how this may be a blessing in disguise. I am more determined now than ever to press forward. YOU have lit a fire under me that has given me a new purpose. So, with all sincerity, thank you Pollination Project! I am truly in your debt ( seriously)!

Disability & Bullying

Check out a preview of the video lesson on disabilities and bullying that I wrote for The Entertaining Oddballz @ https://youtu.be/wHrLgn1BY3o

The Early Bird Initiative

About a year ago, I decided that I wanted to make a difference. I didn't want to be one of those people who just talked about doing something. I actually wanted 2 be proactive and I knew autism was going to be my platform. I look back over the past year and realize that I've made a lot of positive strides in raising awareness but I know I'm far from where I want to be. So I'm committing myself in this next year to doing great things through advocacy and Outreach. I encourage everyone to find a call to support. It's truly one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have.

Support a Cause

I use social media quite a bit for autism awareness. I am committed to the cause and will continue to be proactive about disability support and acceptance. However, I have noticed that people will respond positively to selfies and pictures of random events but remain radio silent when it comes to postings about donating or bringing awareness or promoting acceptance.

I knew when I began this journey as an advocate, I would experience bumps along the way. I get that it's hard for others to identify with disability awareness, especially if it's never affected them personally, but I guess I was just keeping hope alive...

Autism & Water Safety

It's that time of the year again when families are heading to the pool or flocking to the beach to beat the heat. Having a water safety plan should be as important as your child's swimming gear or sunscreen. Children with autism especially need to be monitored because they oftentimes do not realize signs of danger, which makes them highly susceptible to accidental drownings. Your water safety plan should include:
● A designated person or persons who will be your child's constant companion in the water. This could be another adult or a peer buddy. If a peer buddy is recruited,  make sure an adult is in close proximity at all times.
● Procedure for if one of the companions must leave your child's side for a moment.  Who will he or she notify?
● Floatation devices like the arm, leg or body floaties sold at Dollar Tree or other places for as little as a dollar.
● Cell phone close by in case of an emergency.
●Knowledge of CPR protocol in the event that an accident happens.

Remember, having a plan does not mean that you are EXPECTING something bad to happen. It just means that you want to be proactive about keeping your child's safety first!