By MARGIE TRAX PAGE - Staff Writer - mtrax@starbeacon.com
ASHTABULA — William Newman knows what autism looks like. He knows what families of autistic children go through and he wants to help.
William, 13, mustered up his entrepreneurial spirit and a bunch of lemons to raise money for cancer and autism research Sunday afternoon, during Operation Lemonade Stand.
Operation Lemonade Stand is a fundraising effort operated by children nationwide. The money will go toward pediatric cancer research for Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation, a national charity that has raised more than $19 million.
William’s 11-year-old brother, Jeremy Newman, is autistic.
“I am trying to send a message out to the cancer and autism researchers,” William said. “I want them to know that we need a cure and that everyone needs to do their part. Kids can help, too.”
In two days, William has raised $75 selling lemonade.
“I want to do more, though. I want to have more lemonade stands and raise even more money,” he said.
William, who sells his lemonade outside his aunt’s house at 5739 Main Ave., has the life-long job of watching over his little brother.
“I try to help Jeremy,” William said. “I help him read books and sound out the words. I show him how to ride his bike and how to be safe and not just follow anyone. We all help with Jeremy because he needs us.”
