Monica Cooper

My name is Monica Cooper. I am a mom of three boys, Isaac, Ian and Elijah. Isaac and Ian both have Autism. When we received the first diagnosis over 8 years ago my husband and I were not sure what to do or where to go for help. A friend told us about FEAT and the programs and support that they offered. We immediately decided to get involved. At first this was a slow process for us because we were still trying to navigate and wrap our minds around what Autism was. Two short years later our next son would receive the same diagnosis. This hit us pretty hard and we soon discovered we needed to get off of our “island” and needed to surround ourselves with other families just like us that were all on the same journey. FEAT allowed us to take our children swimming, to the Science Center to the park and even participate in our local ST. Patty’s Day Parade in a fun, yet safe environment. My children have been able to go out into the community and feel loved and accepted by other families. FEAT has not only given my family a sense of belonging, but it has ignited a passion within me to help bring others families that have children with Autism together. The families that are a part of FEAT have become an extended family to me. I want give families the same HOPE, that was given to me.