Two best mates are bringing joy to families everywhere with their book series, Adventures of Alex and Joe.
Alex, a 26-year-old from Clontarf, and Joe from Bracken Ridge, also 26, both have Down syndrome and are autistic. Together, they showcase their life experiences in their books, written by Alex’s dad, Brian, and illustrated by Mike Meade.
Brian, along with Alex’s mum Chris, and Joe’s parents, Jenny and Peter, hope the stories will redefine perceptions of living with disabilities.
“When Alexander was born, Chris and I were in a precarious place – sure we knew that we would do our very best for this intriguing little babe but we were grieving the child we thought we would have and we were fearful of how he would navigate his way in the world,” Brian said.
A pivotal moment came when a nurse at the Wesley Hospital showed them photos of her daughter with Down syndrome fishing with her dad and playing with her brothers.
“Those photos meant so much to us,” Brian said. “Here she was laughing with her family. Life was good.”
Now, Brian hopes Adventures of Alex and Joe provides hope for other families. Recently, a local mother of a child with Down syndrome, Stephanie Rodden, purchased 50 books to distribute to new parents of children with Down syndrome.
“It’s a lovely turnaround for us,” Brian said. “Now, we have a son who can bring reassurance to other families who need it. It’s a crucial role. The universe gets it right sometimes.”
Celebrating Unique Talents and Lifelong Friendship
The series consists of five twin-story booklets that reflect Alex and Joe’s interests, including powerlifting, African drumming, choir and art classes.
One story, The Biggest Wish recounts the boys’ first meeting at Aspley Special School. Another, The Elephant Whisperer, highlights Alex’s unique talent for singing to elephants.
The Secret Weapon was inspired by Joe’s participation in training sessions with the Redcliffe Dolphins, part of their My People Support program.
Both men receive support from Carers Queensland, with workers Alyssa and Kirby helping them develop independent living skills.
Brian said Alex and Joe’s alternate view of the world and their contagious sense of fun overflowed onto those who shared in their orbit.
“We’ve made a point of focusing on the boys’ individual gifts, contributions to the world, and that’s what we’ve written up,” he said. “And not just that, but their impact on us.”
The books can be purchased online at adventuresofalexandjoe.godaddysites.com/ or by emailing admin@apcsupport.com.au
Follow Adventures of Alex and Joe on Facebook.
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