One Alumna’s Mission to Offer Support for Autism Awareness
Trinity Christian College alumna Andrea (Douglas) Mercier ‘06 has written a children’s book in honor of her son, Gabriel, who has severe autism. Her mission and hope are that Oliver’s Extraordinary Friend will “bring awareness, educate children through the power of story, and offer families an opportunity for discussions about autism.”
During her time at Trinity Christian College, Andrea met her husband, Michael Mercier ‘05, who was a great support to her through the process of writing the book. Michael majored in Theology, and Andrea majored in Ministry Leadership. After graduating from Trinity, they both went on to earn their Masters of Divinity. Michael later went on to earn a second master’s in Life Coaching and Mentoring, and he currently serves as a U.S. Army Reserve Chaplain and as a Qualified Behavioral Health Professional for Carle Health. Andrea is the Associate of Connections at Chillicothe Christian Church. Their only son, Gabriel, is one of their greatest joys in life.
When recalling her time at Trinity, Andrea recalls a wonderful experience as a Resident Assistant (RA). She appreciated caring for and connecting with the members of her residence hall floor. She also recalls attending churches in Chicago as an impactful experience for her as someone who grew up in a small town. Being a part of the Trinity Christian College community allowed her to “see the Kingdom of Heaven here on earth.”
Receiving a Christian liberal arts education has influenced Andrea’s life. One of the greatest impacts of attending Trinity for her was “learning from professors who loved Jesus and helped their students understand His mission more.” Even by writing a children’s book in honor of her son, Andrea carries on what she has learned at the College. She is making a difference, not only in her current role at the Chillicothe Christian Church but also as a children’s book author.
The Mercier couple’s love for Christ was nurtured in them throughout their journeys at Trinity, and now they are sharing that love with the world. Andrea hopes that by writing and publishing Oliver’s Extraordinary Friend, she can “help neurotypical kids feel more comfortable around kids who are on the autism spectrum.” Inclusivity and an appreciation of diversity go a long way in promoting a safe and loving “Kingdom of God on Earth.” Spreading awareness is key to breaking down barriers, and Andrea is doing just that through her children’s book in honor of the Mercier couple’s beloved son, Gabriel.
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