Just Like Me!: A Book About A Girl with a Rare Disease

Just Like Me! was written to help all children understand that boys and girls with any rare disease are just like them. They may look or act different, but inside they are just kids, like them. Hopefully the book will help encourage understanding of all children who are differently-abled. Such an important life lesson!

The little girl in this book was inspired by Gina Rugari. Gina was diagnosed with Krabbe disease, a leukodystrophy, just weeks after she was born. Her journey to high school was filled with joy, laughter, tears, struggles and so many accomplishments. She loved crazy painted finger nails, Girl Scouts, and watching American Idol. She made art, played soccer, and was great on the computer. Even though she continued to lose muscle control and finger dexterity during her life she became a wonderful teacher. She was a lesson in love, bravery, and persistence for so many classmates, teammates, friends and adults. 

Gina's smile could light up a room. Please use the story in this book to give your smile away to someone who may be different in some way, but is Just Like You!