Charlene McIver

Our children are our future. We count down the months and weeks to the happy event of their birth. When they are born we are overwhelmed with a flood of emotions: relief, contentment, pride, love and joy. We are excited about what their future may hold. However, our baby was born with many challenges; he was a 'hospital baby'. We were unprepared for this, but after the initial shock we dealt with our fears for his future. We learned to overlook and overcome many of Leigh's physical limitations: this beautiful baby boy was a gift to us. Leigh grew up to become a soft-spoken, gentle man and a caring and compassionate son. His life journey demanded immense courage and resilience to handle its many setbacks head-on. As a child, his dream was to be 'just like the other kids' go to school, get a job, drive a car and live an independent life. But along the way he had to endure endless surgeries and appointments, learn to use mobility and breathing devices, and cope with discrimination and hospital shortfalls. He never ceased to amaze us. This book is also about dedication to better patient care. When a patient is admitted to hospital, part of their clinical assessment may include a Resuscitation Plan. This is an official medical form regarding what should be done in case of resuscitation. It outlines broadly defined decisions as to desired outcomes, detailed treatment options and their limitations. My aim is to ensure everyone knows about this form and fully understands its implications. Inadvertently, Leigh played a pivotal role in this quest. As a direct result of his experiences within the hospital system, changes were made to the Consensus Resuscitation Plan and the accompanying information sheet on CPR, used by two major hospitals. This is the story of Leigh's fight for life.Leigh, My Amazing Son is a revealing and evocative story sharing personal insight into the arduous journey of a man with a severe disability and his mother/carer. If you are living with a disability, are a carer, or simply someone who has compassion for others, you will most certainly feel a strong connection to many of the events described in this book.

Leigh's Wheelie Adventures series continues with Nature Study Buddies, the third book in the series. Awarded a Bronze Medal in the Moonbeams 2022 Children's Book Awards for Best Picture Book Series.Leigh, Tara, and Cosmo decide to study nocturnal animals living in trees for their school project.However, Leigh is in a wheelchair, so how will he climb a tall tree?An uplifting story of friendship, fun, and self-awareness.*QR Code on back cover to watch the full video and read along*

Little Parachutes Gold Star Winner 2022Leigh's Wheelie Adventure series continues with Medieval Mashup (Book 2).A special book focusing on the challenges children with different needs face on a daily basis.Leigh just wants to look brave and strong... Leigh, Tara, and Cosmo are making costumes for the school's Medieval Fair. But Leigh is afraid of looking silly and keeps snapping at his friends. Will Leigh overcome his fear of not looking cool and make up with his friends?Based on the true story of Leigh who was born with a severe physical disability.​​​​​​​A beautifully illustrated story of courage, friendship, and fun.*QR Code on back cover to watch the full video and read along*

The Mysterious Pool is an enchanting magical story filled with mystery, fantasy and humor for all children (6-10 years), and for the young at heart. Like elephants, dinosaurs or perhaps super-duper mechanical things? Join Leigh and his fifth-grade school friends, Tara and Cosmo on a journey to a mysterious house in the woods. What treasures are revealed that will shock and astound them, and inadvertently uncover a hidden family secret?However, this historic house may soon be destroyed at the hands of a greedy property developer Can three children find the courage and wisdom to save this incredible house and land on their own? Or perhaps the assistance of some extraordinary animals may be the solution? Leigh doesn't let his wheelchair hold him back from exploring with his friends. His curious nature and inquisitive mind have him searching for answers. Cosmo is the jokester. He likes to make light of serious situations, however, he's always serious when it comes to helping and protecting his friends when needed.Tara is the timid one; her compassion and caring nature is endearing. She loves helping everyone and her fondness for animals, with the exception of "spiders", is engaging. As the events unfold, Leigh experiences an amazing encounter that will leave him wondering and open his mind to new ideas. A Leigh and Friends Adventure series.

Leigh and his friends would love to go to the beach. But Leigh uses a wheelchair and also has a fear of falling. He knows it's difficult getting across the sand in his wheelchair but his friends Cosmo and Tara are happy to find ways to help their friend. After a number of failed attempts they discover a way around the problem and enjoy a great day at the beach. Based on the true story of Leigh who was born with a severe physical disability.A beautifully illustrated story of friendship and determination.

Our children are our future. We count down the months and weeks to the happy event of their birth. When they are born we are overwhelmed with a flood of emotions: relief, contentment, pride, love and joy. We are excited about what their future may hold.However, our baby was born with many challenges; he was a 'hospital baby'. We were unprepared for this, but after the initial shock we dealt with our fears for his future. We learned to overlook and overcome many of Leigh's physical limitations: this beautiful baby boy was a gift to us. This book is also about dedication to better patient care. Inadvertently, Leigh played a pivotal role in this quest. As a direct result of his experiences within the hospital system, changes were made to the Consensus Resuscitation Plan and the accompanying information sheet on CPR, used by two major hospitals. This is the story of Leigh's fight for life.Leigh, My Amazing Son is a revealing and evocative story sharing personal insight into the arduous journey of a man with a severe disability and his mother/carer. If you are living with a disability, are a carer, or simply someone who has compassion for others, you will most certainly feel a strong connection to many of the events described in this book.