Sue Waight's Story
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When a family goes through a life-changing event, books are a vital way for children to understand their experience. It gives them the space to ask questions about that has happened and helps them to see that they are not alone.
Sue Waight, a recently retired social worker, knows exactly how important books are for children going through tough times. In her work, she supported countless families who had been affected by stroke, and she discovered a real need for a book for the children in those families. Unable to find one, Sue decided to write a book herself.
"I felt that it was important to provide a resource for children who are experiencing their parent having a stroke," Sue says.
"Any books I have seen about stroke for children seemed to be about a grandparent or older person."
Despite the popular belief that strokes only affect the elderly, the truth is that stroke can affect anyone, no matter how old they are. Up to 30% of strokes occur in people under 65, and many people who have experienced stroke still have young children living at home.
"In my experience, people who are patients in hospital following a stroke may not fully realise the impact on young children," Sue says.
Sue's book, “Dad’s Turn to Learn”, details a child coming to terms with their father’s stroke. Illustrated beautifully by local illustrator Jessica Tierney, the book is a valuable tool to help the children of stroke survivors come to terms with their experience and understand what their parent has gone through.
Sue used Boosted, an arts crowdfunding platform, to raise money to cover the costs associated with publishing. After a successful campaign, she generously decided not to charge for the book and instead give it away for free to those who will benefit from it.
Sue has also given several copies of "Dad's Turn to Learn" to the Stroke Foundation to distribute, ensuring it can be given to the children who most need it.
If you would like a copy of "Dad's Turn to Learn", please contact Sue Waight at valhalla369@xtra.co.nz.