A deeply personal story of resilience, community and triumph will take centre stage this morning in Wellington, as For the Love of Matthew – A Mother’s Story is officially launched and signed at Francesca De Gregorio’s White Room Gallery.
The 30-minute event, beginning at 11.30am at the gallery on The Esplanade in Island Bay, brings together first-time author Maria Di Leva, her son Matthew — a multi-medal-winning Special Olympian — and “accidental” publisher Rosina Van Der Aa, whose involvement began with a casual suggestion last October and quickly grew into a full-scale publishing venture.
Maria Di Leva’s book recounts her journey as a mother of five who was told when Matthew was just two years old that he was severely disabled, had autism and ADHD, and would never communicate. She was advised to place him in care and “forget about him”. Instead, with the backing of her family and the Island Bay community, she chose determination over despair.
The result is a story that charts Matthew’s path to independence — from learning to talk, read and write, to working, living on his own and excelling in sport. His achievements include silver and bronze medals at the 2023 Berlin Special Olympics, among numerous other accolades.
Copies of the book will be available for $20, with both Maria and Matthew signing on the day. All proceeds will be donated to the Special Olympics Wellington Athletics Programme, with plans underway to establish an annual award in Matthew’s name for emerging local athletes.
