The National Center for Youth Issues

Natalie's Story

Helping Children Understand and Cope with Diabetes
By Cindy Hepner

(Grades 1-5) “Natalie’s Story” is a true-life account of a child’s journey to overcome the unique, daily challenges of living with diabetes. Written to help children with diabetes understand how to cope, and help peers respect the lifestyle differences necessitated by the condition, this endearing storybook will be useful in individual, small group and classroom settings. Paperback, 40 pages.

Additional information from the author, Cindy Hepner
The concept of Natalie's Story began while I was counseling her for the related stressors associated with her diabetes diagnosis. I realized there were very limited resources as I searched for a storybook addressing her issues. As Natalie would explain "her story" to me in counseling, I began to re-frame some of her perceptions into a more positive light and well as search for solutions. The book began to evolve as I wrote down her quotes and had her illustrate those feelings.

The purpose of the book was to capture the view of diabetes from a child's perspective. One of the struggles faced by Natalie (as well as many other children with a chronic disease) is realizing that they are different from their peers. We spent time working on building self-esteem through self-acceptance activities (some are included in the rear of the book for caregivers). Since it's publication, Natalie's hope is that other children will have a story they can relate to and encouragement to overcome their struggles with diabetes.

Click here to see a preview.

Stock #	Description	Retail	ea.	Qty
A552-Net	Natalie's Story		12.95

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