Autism Heroes: Portraits of Families Meeting the Challenge

Firestone is the President, CEO and founder of The Help Group, a non-profit organization that assists families with autistic children. With the assistance of photographer Buissink, the author documents the lives and needs of 38 families who deal with the daily challenges of autism spectrum disorders. Stressing the need to deliver more knowledge and information about the disorder to these families (who come from all walks of life), Firestone balances these profiles with plenty of research facts and treatment options. Oversize: 10x11.25". Annotation c2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Barbara Firestone, PhD is President, CEO and founder of The Help Group, the largest and most comprehensive non-profit organization of its kind in the U.S. serving children with autism spectrum disorders and other special needs. Widely recognized for her leadership, vision and innovation, Dr. Firestone was appointed Vice Chair of the California Legislative Blue Ribbon Commission on Autism, and The Help Group - UCLA Autism Research Alliance was recently launched in conjunction with UCLA's Semel Institute. At state and national levels, she actively promotes autism awareness, early identification and intervention and the expansion of education and treatment opportunities for children, adolescents and young adults.Joe Buissink is an internationally acclaimed photographer and world-renowned teacher and lecturer. He has received numerous awards for his work, including the International Leadership Award in Photography by the International Photographic Council at the United Nations. He is part of Canon's distinguished group of Explorers of Light, has been featured on Good Morning America and many other programs, and his work has appeared in numerous publications. As the parent of a child with an autism spectrum disorder, Joe brings a special sensitivity and artistry to portraying the families in Autism Heroes and has generously donated his time and talent to this project.