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A little boy with a life limiting illness is the star of a new
book aimed at giving children a better understanding of
disability.
David McCarter, nine, a parishioner of Christ Church, Lisburn,
is the inspiration behind David and his Wheels go to the Park,
written by his mother Heather.
Illustrated by Gemma Ramsden, the book was launched on December
14 at Ceara Special School in Lurgan, where David is a pupil.
Heather, a classroom assistant, wrote David and His Wheels three
years ago. She admitted she never thought she would see her book
published. 'This is a very special day for David, his dad Gary
and myself,' she said.
'It was written for children at school to help them better
understand how David is and to make them feel that they can come
up and speak to David when they see him.
'I hope to get the book into schools, because in mainstream
schools there are children like David and his friends who are
being bullied because children just don't understand.'
Heather paid tribute to her 'brave little boy' who she describes
as her inspiration and her life. 'He is the reason this book
came about in the first place,' she said.
David was born on December 9 1998 with Cerebral Palsy and
Epilepsy. Doctor's did not expect him to live more than a year.
'We know that David is life limited but through this book he
will be remembered forever,' Heather said.
'I would like to write a series of books so David can go on
adventures here, there and everywhere to show other children
that David can do anything, he just needs his wheelchair and
a little help.'
Damien Wilson, Group Editor of Johnston Publishing (NI),
publishers of David and his Wheels, told guests at the launch:
'When I first met David I thought how could I cope' But once
I got to know the family I realised they did more than cope,
they have a very full life as a family, and this book is
just a wee glimpse into that life.'
The Rev Paul Dundas, rector of Christ Church, Lisburn, said
David was a well-known face in the parish where his father is
involved in the Lads' Brigade. 'A year ago the Lads' Brigade
presented some money towards David's wheelchair. On that day
there was not a dry eye in the church when Heather spoke on
behalf of David. He is very much loved,' Mr Dundas said.
Heather, 42, said she had always aspired to be a published
writer. 'It is absolutely amazing to see your name in print in a
bookshop!' she said.
David and his Wheels go to the Park is available from Easons and
other bookshops priced £5.99.
19/12/2007
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