MY STORY

Hello, I'm Michele Gates, first and foremost I’m a proud mom to my two grown kiddos. I’m also a writer, contemplative photographer, journaling instructor, and the Founder and President of Mae's Way Foundation. My life's journey has been marked by profound grief, transitions, and a relentless pursuit of self-discovery. It's a path that has been shaped by the most profound loss - the suicide of my mother when I was just five years old. Yet, amidst the challenges, I've known moments of joy, and it's these moments that fuel my passion for inspiring and supporting others on their unique journeys.

 

The early heartbreak of losing my mom introduced me to the world of grief and what I would later discover to be hypervigilance long before I could fully comprehend its depths. It left a deep-rooted mark on my life and ignited a lifelong quest to understand and navigate these complex emotions.

 

I’ve often said that I felt as if I was living in a cocoon walking through life looking out through the goo. The period of time between 2014 and 2017 was no different, my life took a series of challenging turns. I lost the grandparents who had raised me, bid farewell to an aunt, and navigated the turbulent waters of divorce. To add to the whirlwind of change, my two kiddos left the nest, leaving me with a profound question echoing in my mind: "Who am I?"

 

During this period of profound introspection, I turned to my camera, journal, and pen and embarked on a journey of self-discovery. With the question "who am I" as my guide, I immersed myself in nature, capturing its beauty through photography and pouring my thoughts and feelings onto the pages of my journal.

 

As I shared my photographs and musings with others, a remarkable transformation occurred. I not only uncovered my own soul but also discovered a deep-seated passion for inspiring others on their own journeys by spreading a You Matter message – a message I passionately want to share with the world.

 

Through my writing, photography, and journaling instruction, I've dedicated myself to spreading the You Matter message far and wide. I've authored several books and journals, including Mae the Courageous Caterpillar, Mae the Courageous Caterpillar Workbook, Mae the Courageous Caterpillar Journal, and Discovering Me - 12 Week Prompt Guided Journal. These publications offer guidance and support to children and adults alike navigating grief and transition.

 

In addition to my inspired endeavors, I founded Mae's Way Foundation, a non-profit organization established to support children left behind by suicide. It's a personal commitment to give back to the community and extend a helping hand to those in their most vulnerable moments.

 

Life remains an ever-evolving journey, and I see myself as a perpetual student of life, a forever learner, eager to learn and grow alongside you. My mission is to inspire and support you, always reminding you that your unique path is profoundly significant. Please know…You Matter!