Staff Sgt. Mark Brauner Hayward, 46, a reservist on Joint Base Lewis-McChord with the 494 BSB was inspired to write a children's story, "I See Without My Eyes," while serving in Iraq two years ago.

Hayward, married and the father of a 9-year-old son, tells the story of a young blind girl who adapts and functions with her disability.

"She does not let her blindness stand in her way of living her life as best she can," Hayward said. "The story teaches children about Braille, senses, guide dogs and more."

When Hayward was in fifth grade, he saw a 15-minute movie about a 10-year-old boy who was blind. The boy, named Kevin, narrated the movie.

"It was so inspiring that I requested it back and watched it several times. It taught me that I should never let setbacks stand in my way," Hayward recalled.

This children's author has written 15 other manuscripts, but this is his first published work. Illustrated by Nancy Lee Hartman, the book is published through Authorhouse Publishing. Hayward hopes to use this particular book as a fundraising incentive.

"For example, if a person were to donate $300 to a particular cause, they can receive this wonderful children's book," he said.

Hayward hopes to release his second children's book, "I'm a Magician's Helper," around Christmas.

Author Mark Hayward will be at the PX on JBLM-Main, Tuesday, Feb. 23 through Friday, Feb. 26 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 27, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., selling autographed copies of "I See Without My Eyes."

The book sells for $12 and can also be purchased online at www.authorhouse.com/Bookstore/ItemDetail.a.