Book Teaches Determination, Inclusion, Overcoming Challenges

Nova Scotia students are reading about Rick Hansen's 43,000-kilometre world tour in a new book, Roll On: Rick Hansen Wheels Around the World.

Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Ramona Jennex, and Human Rights Commission CEO David Shannon today, May 27, celebrated the books being given to every Primary to Grade 8 school in the province with students and staff at Kings County Academy in Kentville.

"Twenty-five years later, this story of determination, positive thinking, overcoming challenges and achieving your goals is still inspiring young minds," said Ms. Jennex. "Rick Hansen's journey is important for all students to learn. This new book is a well-crafted and beautifully illustrated way to discover this proud piece of Canadian history."

Earlier this month, 360 schools across the province were given a copies of the hardcover book, written by Ainslie Manson and illustrated by Annapolis Valley artist Ron Lightburn.

"Rick Hansen is a true hero," said Mr. Shannon. "This book teaches that each and every one of us can reach for the stars and achieve our goals. We should never lose sight of how important inclusion is to make a better society for everyone."

In 1985, Canadian Rick Hansen began the Man in Motion World Tour, a two-year journey in his wheelchair that raised awareness of what people with disabilities can do. During the 34-country tour, $26 million was raised for spinal cord research, rehabilitation and wheelchair sports.