Melissa Hunt-Sampey
My blogs
- Autism through a sister's voice
- About my book- Love Beyond Measure: A Sibling’s Journey Through Autism and Faith
| Gender | Female |
|---|---|
| Location | Michigan, United States |
| Introduction | Melissa Hunt-Sampey has channeled her experience growing up with an autistic brother into advocacy in several ways, including organizing several charity events to raise money for the autistic residents at a Catholic-run group home, establishing and managing an autism foundation. Hunt-Sampey’s career as a marketing specialist has also included administrative positions at two Catholic-affiliated institutions—a private school and a hospital. She has also worked as an entertainment specialist and in production on two morning radio programs. Currently, Hunt- Sampey develops comprehensive marketing and communication campaigns for a major regional health system in the Detroit area, where she utilizes her extensive public speaking, media, and public relations experience. Hunt-Sampey earned a certificate from Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts and graduated magna cum laude with an English degree from Eastern Michigan University, where she served as a member of the Alumni Board of Directors. Hunt-Sampey is also an active member of the Public Relations Society of America, Women in Communications and volunteers with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters program. |
| Interests | Autism has affected my life since I was a child, confused by my brother’s behavior and slow development. And yet, I believe that I am a stronger person for having lived through the challenges that come with being a sister to an autistic sibling. Living with Brian and defending him and other special needs children against those who would criticize them has also developed in me a deep yearning to support this cause. I am passionate about helping other families living with autism, and I envision this memoir as a springboard to help grow my platform as an advocate to those with autistic siblings. The material devoted to helping these siblings cope is sporadic at best, and there is no central organization or other resource devoted to advancing this cause. As a result, when I sought my own answers through the years, I found this lack of guidance frustrating. My desire to tell my own story and provide sibling-specific resources was fueled by this information deficit, and I believe that I could make a difference in many lives through my continued advocacy. |