Author Jillian Bleackley, born and raised in Abbotsford, has released a children’s Christmas book about an elf with cerebral palsy entitled The Elf Apprentice.

The goal of the book is to demonstrate to children lessons of acceptance and persistence.

Bleackley has cerebral palsy and lives in William Rudd House, an assisted-living facility in New Westminster.

She said she had the idea several months ago to write a children’s book that would help kids understand the challenges of living with a disability.

“Although I have cerebral palsy, I’m able to do many things everyone else can do, such as taking university courses online and volunteering in my community,” she said.

“I do experience challenges. However, with persistence, a positive frame of mind and passion for what you’re doing, you can achieve what you want to do in life. And regardless of your abilities, everyone can make a contribution.”

The Elf Apprentice is dedicated to Bleackley’s niece Hannah; nephews Conner, Owen and Fraser; and her friend and former housemate “Little Jay,” who passed away earlier this year.

This is Bleackley’s third publication. Her previous works – Reflections and Script and Stills – are both collections of free-verse poetry.

The Elf Apprentice is available for sale at Quintessential, the Gift Shop at Queen’s Park Care Centre (315 McBride Boulevard) and online at:

jillian-bleackley-the-author.myshopify.com/

Jillian Bleackley has written a new children’s book called The Elf Apprentice.