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Award-winning author and comic-strip writer Jewel Kats visits Museum of disABILITY History

by jmaloni

Press release

Tue, Jun 4th 2013 07:00 am

Toronto native makes her disability her fortune

Award-winning children's book author and comic-strip writer Jewel Kats will visit the Museum of disABILITY History for a two-day event on Friday, June 21, and Saturday, June 22, at 3826 Main St., Buffalo.

On Friday, from 7-9 p.m., the Museum of disABILITY History will host "An Evening with DitzAbled Princess Jewel Kats." An adult friendly interview-style discussion with Jewel will be held, where she will speak candidly about her life as a "DitzAbled Princess." Jewel, 34, is the author of the comic strip titled "DitzAbled Princess," which is based on her own life as a diva who considers her disability her fortune. Jewel's Web comic has become a revolutionary online phenomenon and has more than 700,000 fan views. Copies of her comical diary will be available for purchase and signing.

A family-oriented event, the "Your Crowning Achievement" event will be held on Saturday, from 1-3 p.m. There will be a book reading of Jewel's fairy tale "Cinderella's Magical Wheelchair." Children will also have the opportunity to participate in a "make your own crown or tiara" craft activity and take a photo with Jewel. Books will be available for purchase for an autograph session.

The event is geared towards children ages 5 and up.

"Disabilities are a perk. They make you stand out in a sea of ordinary folks. Limitations are just a perceived mindset," Jewel said. "Nobody ... nothing should stop you. You're entitled to reach for the stars in your very own way!"

At the age of 9, Jewel endured a car accident. She spent weeks in the Hospital for Sick Children recovering. She has had eight leg surgeries and walks with a hot-pink crutch. Nothing has stopped her from fulfilling her dreams and she is sharing her story with the world. Kats is the author of seven books for Loving Healing Press, including her Mom's Choice Award winners: "Cinderella's Magical Wheelchair" and "The Princess and the Ruby: An Autism Fairy Tale." She is the writer and real-life character behind the "DitzAbled Princess" Web comic strip, nominee for the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame, former intern for "Entertainment Tonight Canada," and a former teen advice columnist who was filmed in a documentary for the Oprah Winfrey Network (Canada) Network.

Kats resides in Toronto.

Admission fees apply for both events, which includes admission to the Museum of disABILITY History. Refreshments will be provided at both events. To learn more about Jewel Kats, visit www.jewelkats.com and www.ditzabledprincess.com. For more information about the events, or to RSVP, call 716-629-3623.

The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society's reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History offers educational exhibits, programs and activities that expand community awareness.

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