Meet
Mary E Harrison

Meet Mary, our featured #AutismAdvocate! From Columbia MBA to Director of Communications, Mary’s career path is impressive. But her most challenging, rewarding journey has been with her son Jewels, who has autism.

Professional Excellence and Personal Journey

Mary E. Harrison holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Columbia University and has worked for several Fortune 500 companies. Her career took a significant turn when she became the Director of Communications for an international relief organization, traveling worldwide with first responders to provide emergency medical supplies.

Advocate and Speaker

The most challenging and rewarding aspect of Mary’s journey has been preparing her son, Jewels, who has autism, to navigate daily living and develop his exceptional musical talents. As Jewels transitioned into adulthood, Mary’s commitment to the special needs community deepened. She emerged as an autism advocate, entrepreneur, author, and speaker, passionately providing hope and information to parents of children on the spectrum. Her mission is to let these parents know they are not alone in their journey.

Mary's Mission

Mary’s experience and dedication are encapsulated in her book, which she describes as a culmination of her learnings and insights from raising her son. She aims to share the seven keys that she believes hold the secret to an easier path for parents and their children with autism. Mary emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the challenges that lie ahead, particularly as children with autism transition into adulthood.

Time-Tested Strategies

This book highlights seven time-tested strategies that Mary employed over two decades to help Jewels develop essential living skills. These strategies are designed to assist parents in preparing their children for the transition from childhood to adulthood, focusing on their strengths and mitigating the daunting “cliff” that occurs when individuals age out of the school system. By implementing these common-sense approaches today, parents can significantly improve their child’s performance and overall quality of life.

A Practical Guide for Parents

Mary’s book is a beacon of hope and a practical guide for parents navigating the complexities of raising a child with autism spectrum disorder. It underscores the importance of preparation and the power of focusing on a child’s unique abilities to ensure a smoother transition into adulthood.

About the Book

Autism Grows Up...
Then What?

7 Keys to Preparing Your Child’s Transition From Childhood to Adulthood (Without Losing Your Mind)
In Autism Grows Up…Then What, Mary E. Harrison shares her invaluable experience and insights gained from raising her son, Jewels, who has autism. Like many parents, Mary faced the upheaval of her initial plans for her son’s life due to his sensory issues, communication problems, and relational skill challenges. These obstacles masked Jewels’ natural talents and hindered his emotional and social development. However, with perseverance and strategic planning, Mary discovered ways to help her son flourish.

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