Stories That Inspire Us welcomed to this today’s podcast, Gary Martinez, Jr. Gary is a Single dad to his two children: Cristian and Monica. His daughter Monica, is Autistic. Gary learned early on in his quest to adapt to the lifestyle of being a busy single Dad that he first and foremost had to make his self-care a priority. If that meant getting up extra early, he did that.
He was also faced with the uncertainty of communicating with his daughter. She did not speak and could not communicate with others. Through his research as a parent and his tenacity to adapt, he eventually found a beautiful way to communicate with his daughter. (Honestly, you just have to listen to the passion in his voice; as a Dad and as a parent confronted with so many obstacles Gary did not let that stop him!)
He found a purpose which fueled his passion. Along with taking care of himself, his children were able to see his transformation on a very personal level. It was through that adversity where he could communicate on a Father / Daughter level with his daughter, Monica.
She eventually was able to communicate in a way which made sense to her and Gary was able to adapt to that way of communication. Monica loves movies and Gary began to see where he would touch upon different segments of Monica’s favorite movies and they would act out scenes together. (Again, the passion in Gary's voice - just amazing!)
Gary became a personal fitness trainer and works with clients enrolled in the Silver Sneakers program. Most of his clients now are parents with children who have autism. It is his passion and he is fulfilling his purpose of helping Autism parents who struggle with low energy become more active so they can have more energy to have more fun with their kids at home or on the go. Gary truly is on the “go” for sure!
Gary gave some amazing tips for parents who learn that their child has Autism. He also shared that at some point, he will be starting his own podcast so that he may provide a platform for other parents and caregivers of children with Autism to share their experiences.
To connect with Gary further, please check out his Instagram page:
https://instagram.com/gary_martinez_jr
Are you a parent or caregiver of a child with Autism? What has been your biggest challenge? What have you learned from your journey?
Let me know what you thought of today’s episode. If you are interested in sharing your story, please go to my website and “register as a guest”.
https://www.podpage.com/stories-that-inspire-us/
Thank you Gary - Sharing your story of being a single Dad, showing your true authentic self and owning and developing your purpose and passion is Truly beyond amazing as these are the Stories That Inspires Us!!
