Author and Advocate Stefany Shaheen hosting event to promote her new book ELLE AND COACH in Evanston

Elle Shaheen was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 8. Ever since her diagnosis, her parents Craig Welch and Stefany Shaheen have vigilantly monitored their daughter’s blood sugar levels and administered a dozen blood sugar tests every day. They literally monitored Elle’s health round the clock, often waking multiple times a night to check her blood sugar.

And then Coach entered the picture and changed everything for this New Hampshire family. Two years ago, Coach, a diabetes alert dog, joined their clan. This highly trained canine helps Elle, now 16 years old, detect changes in her blood sugar -- sometimes before she herself feels symptoms. Coach has become a critical part of managing Elle’s diabetes -- and a beloved addition to the family.

The addition of Coach to the family was so transformative that Shaheen decide to write a book to share her family’s story. She will be in Chicago to promote her memoir, ELLE & COACH: Diabetes, the Fight For My Daughter’s Life, and the Dog Who Changed Everything (Hachette Books) on November 16, 2015. The book tells the story of a family in need, a mother’s love for her daughter, and the power of the animal-human connection. Most of all, this book is about finding hope in the most unlikely of places.

All are welcome at a family event hosted at Little Beans Cafe Evanston (430 Asbury Avenue, Evanston) from 4:30-6:00 p.m. on Monday, November 16, 2015 for a talk and book signing.

“I am so excited to come to Chicago and look forward to connecting with families and sharing our story. It is wonderful to have the chance to meet new people and connect over shared experiences. Anyone who has ever struggled, parents who want to protect and make life better for their children and animal lovers will all relate to ELLE & COACH,” says Shaheen.

The book is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and at any independent bookseller.