In my previous post, I was beginning to speak about the Children’s Book series based upon our family that is currently in production. A few months ago, I was contacted by a producer and long-time friend, Mike Axe, who has been following my blog for some time. Mike wanted to produce a children’s book series to raise awareness for Autism, and to have this series be based off of OUR family.

Well HOLY CRAP! My dream job is to someday work as an individual consultant to advise companies on creating a more “Autism-Friendly” environment. Some examples I’m thinking would be like Walmart wanting to do a “sensory shopping” night once a month, or Chik-fil-a hosting a Saturday morning breakfast monthly where they advertise to special-needs parents to bring their kiddos for a meal and time in their indoor playplace. Many families (mine included) do not have the opportunity to have “play dates” or to meet other caregivers of kids like Greyson, who could use a two-hour window monthly to meet up, chat, get advice, share their story, or even just to have someone to build a relationship with. Autism (and special needs) parents are very lonely. I truly believe that once Greyson’s behaviors became severe enough to drastically minimize time in public, I as a parent became more secluded and lonely. Working from home has also contributed to that loneliness, especially post COVID shutdown.

So when Mike approached me to consult and basically work with an author to create the book series, I HAD to jump on that train! Mike is a former Lancaster resident, but currently resides outside of L.A. He has quite the resume and impressive experience working with content creators, producers, authors, illustrators, and is extremely passionate about creating a platform for people to share experiences and stories, like us. At first I did not think that the series could even be something “big”, but the more times Mike and I met, I saw that this could be a way to share our story, and to connect with other families that may be going through what we do on a daily basis.

Without giving too much away, the series is a kid-friendly way to show the reader what its like to have an Autistic family member, and how Autism plays into our family dynamic, specifically. The first book will be from Roz (Roslynn)’s perspective. Again without going into too much detail, the book utilizes a family movie night as the catalyst for the storyline. It’s been wonderful having the opportunity to provide content to an illustrator, and to have the entire family turned into cartoon characters. Also getting a chance to meet with the author to give REAL-LIFE feedback into the book, has really enhanced the authenticity of the book and family dynamic. I think that everyone will enjoy the series, and what could be a better way to raise awareness for Autism, then a cartoon of the Martin Family!?!

My time has been consumed recently by work, managing life here at home, remodeling a kitchen, and providing feedback towards “The Greyson Project”. The non-profit organization will work towards providing not only kid-friendly books to explain Autism, but also to raise awareness and provide resources to families with special-needs children. Eventually, The Greyson Project will serve as a way to create Autism Awareness events, information and content that could directly support the very families that we are targeting with the book series. I’d also love to see some more in-person resources for our community as well, since many parent support groups, Autism awareness walks, etc. were all discontinued due to the strains of COVID-19.

I am learning so much from this experience and am continually amazed by the awe-inspiring talents that Mike has shared with Derek and myself. I am so excited to have the opportunity to represent The Greyson Project by participating in future podcasts, posts and press interviews, and by using our family’s story as a stepping stone to raise awareness for Autism.

Pre-Order First “Greyson Project” Book – Touch Hearts, Open Minds!

Be part of a special story with the first “Greyson Project” children’s book! In this first book in the series, you’ll see the world through Roz’s eyes, Greyson’s big sister. She has autism like Greyson, but is on the opposite end of the spectrum.

These books are more than stories. They help us understand and care about people with autism. Your order means you get a digital download of a beautiful book and support a great cause.

Get your digital book download on or before 6/30/24. Help us make more books and create helpful resources to help others.

Order here and make a difference:

https://buy.stripe.com/eVa02D0br9cufDy00u

Join us and make the world a more empathetic and kind place.