Today we’d like to introduce you to Javan Allison And Monique Cooper
Hi Javan Allison And, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all began when Javan had a life-threatening experience with his severe asthma, which led to an extended stay in the ICU. During that time, after much reflection, Javan and I decided to write a book series that would share his journey, including his struggles with asthma. “The Adventures of Javan and the 3 A’s” chronicles Javan’s experiences living with asthma, ADHD, and anxiety in a way that is both adventurous and heartfelt.
Since then, we’ve dedicated ourselves to raising awareness through speaking engagements, book signings, community events, and more. On September 29th, 2024, we’ll release the 4th book in the series, “Javan and His A’s”, which introduces his life as an athlete and how he balances his health challenges with his passion for sports.
Javan’s story has been recognized by WebMD, the National Asthma and Allergy Foundation, the Miami-Dade County School Board, the City of Miami Gardens, and more. Our mission is to continue spreading awareness in our community and support families facing similar adversities, just as Javan has.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. We’ve faced plenty of struggles along the way, both physically and emotionally. Javan’s severe asthma has led to multiple hospital visits, including that near-death experience that really shifted our lives. Managing asthma is difficult enough, but when you add ADHD and anxiety to the mix, it becomes a daily balancing act—juggling medications, school responsibilities, and sports all while managing his health.
There were moments of frustration, especially when Javan had to sit out from activities he loved due to asthma flare-ups or when anxiety made it hard for him to stay focused in school. The emotional toll it took on him, and on us as a family, was heavy. It felt overwhelming at times. But each challenge brought us closer and more determined to find ways to adapt, cope, and keep moving forward.
We also faced struggles in finding the right resources and support, especially in environments like school or sports, where people may not always understand the complexity of managing multiple chronic conditions. Advocating for Javan’s needs and raising awareness was often a battle, but it’s what motivated us to share his story and help other families facing similar challenges.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Javan -I’m currently an 11th grader playing varsity football as a Defensive Back. In addition to football, I’m part of the sports medicine program, which I plan to pursue when I go to college. My focus is on perfecting my game—constantly working on my techniques, putting in the hard work, and pushing myself to improve every day. So far, I’ve received four D1 college offers, and I’m expecting more as long as I stay on the right path.
Along with my athletic achievements, I maintain a GPA above 3.0 and am working hard to push it past 4.0. What sets me apart is my dependability, consistency, and the effort I put in both on and off the field.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Outside of my parents, finding a mentor and building a strong network can be game-changers, both personally and professionally. Here’s what has worked well for me and some advice on how to approach it:
Be proactive and intentional: Don’t wait for a mentor to come to you. Identify people who inspire you or are where you want to be in life—whether in sports, academics, or any field. Reach out to them with a clear purpose, whether it’s through email, social media, or in person. When you approach someone, be specific about what you admire about them and how you think they can help guide you.
Leverage your current network: Sometimes the best connections come from people you already know—coaches, teachers, or family friends. Ask them if they can introduce you to others who can help you grow. You never know who might be willing to help if you ask.
Be open and coachable: Mentors want to invest in people who are willing to listen and put in the effort. Show that you’re serious about learning and improving by being open to feedback and willing to step outside your comfort zone.
Get involved in communities and events: Attend workshops, networking events, or even volunteer for community programs related to your interests. Being present in these spaces helps you meet new people organically and grow your circle.
Follow up and stay consistent: After meeting someone, always follow up. Send a thank-you note, keep them updated on your progress, and stay in touch regularly. Building a strong network takes time and consistency.
What has worked well for me is staying consistent and always being willing to learn. I’ve connected with coaches, teachers, and professionals who saw my dedication, and because of that, I’ve been able to develop strong relationships that have helped me grow both in football and academically.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.javanallison.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadventuresofjavan/
- Twitter: https://x.com/IAmJavanAllison
Image Credits
Avalonfotography and visualsbyJatara
