- A
Three weeks ago, our dear friend, Rockaway Beach Autism Families board
member, Joe Munisteri, otherwise known as “Joe Butterfly,” at just
35 years old was diagnosed with colon cancer. For those of you who have
crossed paths with Joe, know that he is an extraordinary human being. He
is on the autism spectrum, and also, passionately works as a direct
support professional (DSP) for individuals with autism. In addition,
utilizing his background in Peer Supports, he works as a mentor for
individuals facing mental health challenges.
So, much more we can list about Joe’s accomplishments. In a nutshell, he
is an autistic superhero, who has overcome numerous challenges. He
independently rents an apartment with his longtime girlfriend, Nancy,
owns and drives a vehicle, and has a full-time job.
However, now he is facing a formidable opponent— COLON CANCER.
Because of this alarming diagnosis, Joe is limited in his ability to work. He
does not get short term disability benefits, and most of his medical
expenses are not covered as he only has straight Medicaid, thus limiting
his healthcare options.
And with the everyday necessities of life and not being able to make an
income, Joe direly needs our help!
*****Funds raised will go into Joe’s ABLE (Achieving a Better Life
Experience) savings account and "Special Needs Trust.” These special
accounts will ensure that Joe does not lose his Medicaid or SSDI
eligibility. Funds will only be used for qualifying disability related
expenses.
Anything you can donate will be truly appreciated.
Also, please pray and surround Joe and his family with your love so he
can beat this thing.
Please spread the word.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
The friends and family of Joe Munisteri aka Joe Butterfly
#cancersucks #autismcommunity #autismgamers #joebutterfly
#autisticartists #butterflyinspace
To learn more about Joe, please see the links below:
Articles Featuring Joe:
Passion interview: Joe Butterfly
Special Feature — Hear From Local Autism Warriors
Special Feature — Reflections on NYC Comic Con 2025
Subscribe to Joe's YouTube Channel
https://youtube.com/@butterfliesinspace?si=QNcpDYkNkxOoyR5V
Follow Joe on Instagram
Follow Joe on X (formerly Twitter)
Follow Joe on Facebook
Follow Joe on TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@butterfliesinspacejoe
Hackathon Projects Joe has created:
1) EthGlobal 2025 - ABLEfid
2) NASA Space Apps Challenge 2024 - Butterfly Space Rescue RPG using GLOBE Program Datasets
team/butterfly-space-rescue/
3) EthGlobal Online 2022 - POAP Book Club V2.0 featuring: "Butterflies
in Space"
4) EthGlobal New York 2022 - POAP Book Club
5) Joe was the local lead for the NASA Space Apps Challenge 2025 - Long Beach
Follow Butterfly Space Rescue card game Instagram page
Joe's Etsy Shop
Joe's Amazon Influencer Store Page
Joe's Amazon Author Page
