Autism author launches new non-profit

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - "Madelena jumped out of bed and ran downstairs," read Mauro DiVieste.

And so begins the story of a little girl named Madelena and her big brother, Mikey.

"It's a fictional story based on our true life events," said DiVieste. My daughter Madelena is going to show and tell, and she tells her class about what it's like to live with an autistic brother."

That character is based on a nine-year-old named Mikey. He has autism and he's non-verbal.

Mikey's parents, Mauro and Beverly DiVieste, wrote and illustrated the book, The Art of Autism; Being Mikeyfied, about their son. It's the first in a series of books the couple plans to write.

"We wanted to write children's books for our new cause," said DiVieste. "We're going to start a non-profit to benefit care for adult autism."

Ultimately, the DiViestes hope money from their non-profit will be used to provide housing and skilled care for adults with autism who can't care for themselves.

"There comes a point where for reality's sake we have to think about their adulthood and what's going to happen to them," said DiVieste. "My son and a lot of kids like him are going to need to be taken care of. We will do it for as long as we can of course, being his parents that's not a problem. We're worried about when we're old."

The Art of Autism costs $20. For more information, visit www.mikeyfiedproductions.com.