Havant teenager Lewis Hine tells of chronic illness and finding friends in newly-published book

IN HIS short 17 years, Lewis Hine has been through more than most adults.
Lewis Hine with his new book 'Looking at the Stars' at his Havant home
Picture: Malcolm Wells (180328-2540)Lewis Hine with his new book 'Looking at the Stars' at his Havant home
Picture: Malcolm Wells (180328-2540)
Lewis Hine with his new book 'Looking at the Stars' at his Havant home Picture: Malcolm Wells (180328-2540)

And now the teenager has written a book detailing the daily issues he faces because of his illness, the surprising success of his Friend Finder website and the number of people he has inspired over the years.

Looking at the Stars tells Lewis’ story in his own words with his mum Emma, clippings from The News and pictures helping him remember it all.

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It was through this video that Lewis and Emma were approached by a publisher wanting to create a book.

Emma said: ‘It was a surprise when a publisher said they wanted to tell Lewis’ story in a book.

‘It has been a long process as Lewis has difficulty with reading and writing so he had to dictate to a ghost writer who wrote down what he said.

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‘There was a lot of proofing and going back and forth to check we were happy with it but it’s great to have it finally here.’

Lewis will be doing a book signing in Portsmouth on April 10 to help launch the book.

He will be meeting family and friends at WHSmith in Commercial Road, between 4pm and 5pm.

Lewis will also go to London and meet Radio 1 DJ Nick Grimshaw for a Q&A session.

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Although he does not have a favourite part of the book, Lewis said everything he has achieved would not have been possible without the support of the community, something he highlights throughout.

He added: ‘When I started the Friend Finder website, I never expected it to get as big as it has.

‘A lot of that is down to my family, friends and people from Portsmouth who have been really supportive.

‘I want to say thanks to them and that’s why I wanted a book signing in the city.’