In a powerful initiative to promote understanding and acceptance of diabetes among children, a dedicated educator from Langley is making waves with her newly released book.

Rashda Munawar, a math teacher and author based in Surrey, has penned "Think Big: Believe, Achieve, and Soar High," a story designed to empower kids to overcome adversity while fostering representation of individuals with medical conditions in children's literature.

As November unfolds, marking Diabetes Awareness Month, Munawar is stepping into the spotlight with a series of events aimed at raising awareness and support for Type 1 diabetes.

Her book tells the uplifting tale of Maria, a young girl facing the hurdles of living with Type 1 diabetes.

This narrative resonates deeply with Munawar, whose daughter was diagnosed with the condition at just four years old, inspiring her to create a story that reflects resilience and the importance of self-belief.

The characters, Mr. Big and Mr. Small, embody the themes of battling self-doubt and nurturing a growth mindset, providing young readers with tools to tackle their challenges head-on.

"The world can often feel overwhelming, especially for children facing health issues," Munawar explained.

"I want my readers to understand that they can achieve anything they set their minds to.”

On Saturday, November 9, Munawar will host a story time and book signing event at Indigo Langley, beginning at 11 a.m.

Following that, on November 20 at 5:30 p.m., a special Type 1 diabetes awareness event will take place at the Clayton Surrey Library.

This gathering will feature an interactive book session, allowing families to engage with the material and learn more about diabetes.

Additionally, in collaboration with the Langley Literacy Network, two schools in the Langley district will host "Think Big" Story Walks throughout November.

These activities aim to blend literacy promotion with diabetes education, ensuring that children grasp the significance of both.

"With this book, I envision a future where children of all backgrounds and health conditions see themselves represented in literature.

November is a pivotal month for raising awareness about Type 1 diabetes, and I hope to share this message of empowerment: that all children, regardless of their challenges, can achieve greatness," said Munawar.

Don't miss this chance to support a worthy cause while empowering the next generation through literature that speaks to their experiences!