Elle & Coach: Diabetes, the Fight for My Daughter's Life, and the Dog Who Changed Everything

Description

Stefany Shaheen takes readers on an emotional journey as she tries everything to manage her daughter Elle's deadly and unpredictable disease, all while juggling a family of four children. Overcoming the skepticism that a dog can provide answers that medical science is still seeking, the family finds a resounding sense of peace and reassurance through Coach's near miraculous abilities as a medic-alert dog, specially trained to detect dangerous changes in blood sugar levels. ELLE & COACH is a story of determination and finding hope in the most unlikely of places.

Stefany Shaheen has dedicated herself to making life better for people living with diabetes. A Harvard graduate, she launched a company to help those with chronic conditions better manage eating and exercise. She is on the Board of Trustees at Joslin Diabetes Center, served as the National Chair for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Children's Congress, and currently serves on the Foundation's Research and Advocacy Committee. She is a key spokesperson for her mother, Jeanne Shaheen, U.S. Senator and former New Hampshire Governor, and currently serves on the City Council for the City of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where she and her husband, Craig Welch, live with their four children. Mark Dagostino is a New York Times bestselling co-author, and a former Senior Writer for People Magazine. He also lives in NH.

Elle & Coach is a must-read--not just for parents of children with chronic illnesses, but for any parent who's ever wished to make life easier for a child who is struggling with something daunting. As the mom of a son who faced multiple surgeries during his childhood, I was deeply moved by Elle's experiences--and inspired by the beacon of hope that her service dog provides. I have a feeling this book is going to change a lot of lives for the better.--Jodi Picoult Coach...has engendered confidence that Elle will live a life based on her dreams not her disease.--The Boston Globe Discover how this remarkable animal has brought hope and relief to a family in need.--People Magazine Here's to this unstoppable team and inspiring story of survival.--Parents Magazine (Parenting.com) In addition to being a great read, the story of Elle & Coach will open eyes to the very real struggle of life with type 1 diabetes, and may well change the conversations we have about how to make lives better while we work toward better treatments and ultimately a cure.--Dean Kamen It's a universal story of parental devotion, overcoming adversity and letting go.--New Hampshire Union Leader Lassie pales by comparison to this pooch, who sleeps in Elle's bed, accompanies her to school, appears in a play with her, and nudges her or her parents if she needs to check her blood sugar. Parents of kids with special needs will find Shaheen's passionate advocacy informative and inspiring.--Booklist This book is about finding hope in the most unlikely of places.--Modern Dog Magazine This book is much more than a heartwarming story about a triumphant little girl and her amazing dog. It's a book about never giving up hope.--Michael J. Fox This book will inspire and encourage countless parents and children around the country. I loved it.--Hillary Rodham Clinton