x
Breaking News
More () »

Quadruple amputee authors children's book about celebrating differences

"This book is universal, it's about strength and bravery and overcoming adversity."

NEW ORLEANS -- A retired teacher and principal continues to help children learn by writing a book about overcoming adversity. The story was easy for her to write because it's about her own life experiences.

Merlyna Valentine was a teacher, a principal and the executive director of elementary schools in St. Charles Parish for 30 years. Now, she can add motivational speaker and author to her list of accomplishments.

"Something awful happened," Valentine read from her book. "A visitor reached down and plucked off four of Daisy's colorful petals."

"This book is universal, it's about strength and bravery and overcoming adversity," Valentine explained.

As she flipped through the colorful pages, telling the story of Daisy the flower, she's also explaining her own journey.

"This book was generated and created out of my desire to share my story of becoming a quadruple amputee with children all over the country," Valentine said.

More than 10 years ago sepsis took Valentine's hands and legs and almost her life.

"I had less than a 10 percent chance of survival," she said.

It didn't take her spirit.

"I was given a second chance," Valentine said. "Very early on I made a vow to myself that I wouldn't waste a moment."

Instead of focusing on what she lost, Valentine focuses on what she gained.

"I couldn't change what happened, all I could do was embrace the change, allowing God to guide me through this change and be on a different journey," Valentine said.

That journey has taken her across the country as a motivational speaker.

"These differences make us unique and special and we are more about possibilities than just focusing on disability," Valentine said.

And as Valentine learned to triumph in the face of adversity, so too did Daisy.

"She learned to live her life without limits and be a model of perseverance to all," Valentine read.

Valentine's book is called Daisy the Extra Special Flower and is available on Amazon.

Before You Leave, Check This Out