We
just don’t know, do we--whether cancer is related to genetics or environmental
issues or both? What we do know is that cancer plays no favorites--it chooses
youngsters, the elderly and every age in between.
When
it strikes the older folks, we often say, “Well, he lived a good, long life.”
When a child is diagnosed, we diligently pray for that good, long life to be a
reality for him or her. We pray that treatment is merely a temporary necessity
to make them better and healthy once again.
Do
you ever wonder what these youngsters in cancer treatment are thinking? Being
sick is never fun, but the hope is always for a happy outcome. In the interim,
everyone involved is fearful--the children themselves, friends, parents and
grandparents. It is a waiting game.
Patricia
David, RN, MSW, wants to help children who are facing the paths that a cancer
diagnosis causes them to travel. Her children’s book, Hugs Inc. uses four
stuffed animals--Oliver the dragon, Jazzy the frog, Rosie the beagle, and
Sparky the starfish to guide the children through scary times involving their
treatment.
Hugs Inc. explains
ports, side effects and the fact that cancer isn’t contagious. It sends a solid
message that cancer strikes people of all nationalities and that hair loss and
fatigue are often a result of treatment. Most importantly, it reminds them that
they are not alone.
Hugs
are known to offer healthy benefits such as healing feelings of loneliness,
isolation and anger. A long hug can elevate serotonin levels, lifting moods and
making people feel happier. It is even reported that hugs can strengthen the
immune system.
Hugs
that are punctuated with genuine love and concern are more than just an empty
gesture. They reach in and bathe the soul in sunlight.
Patricia
David tackled a topic that people generally don’t want to think about--much
less address. She allowed Oliver, Jazzy, Rosie and Sparky to serve as caring,
special friends to patients Zarah, Winnie, Caroline and Molly, giving them hope
and companionship.
If
only the children’s cancer treatment centers across the nation--hey even across
the world--could see the value of utilizing this book with its adorable, vivid
illustrations to make this path just a little bit easier for these young
patients, what a blessing that would be.
If
you know of a pediatric cancer patient who could benefit by owning this book, Hugs Inc. is available online at Amazon
and Barnes & Noble.
The
Amazon link is: http://amzn.to/1kTkWjM
Give
a gift of hope along with a big, therapeutic hug!
Book Description
Hugs Inc. is designed as
an informational tool for anyone concerned about pediatric cancer most notably,
children in classrooms, their teachers, newly diagnosed children seeking
answers, and families trying to explain this disease to siblings, family
members, neighbors, and the public in general but with an uplifting twist. The
need for hope, understanding, guidance and support (HUGS) serve as key factors
in the healing process. A Pediatric Oncologist provided technical support for
this book while Patricia David created terminology for all to understand. This
is her first in a series of children’s books about Pediatric Cancer.
In
the Author’s Words
Why did I write Hugs Inc?
Having
worked with children diagnosed with cancer from the early 1960’s to the present
day, one quality remains constant and that is valor. These children and their
families are brave. They fight this war of pediatric cancer with such grace.
Writing
Hugs Inc. is my way of saying thank
you to all the families over these many years. Their grit and strength, their
heroism is amazing.
I’ve
been with families when they are confused by medical terminology shaking their
heads in agreement, but not truly understanding the meaning of treatments and
medical interventions. All they know is that their child has cancer.
I
wanted to present a book with understandable, age appropriate terminology. A
book where each child can learn healthy outlets to express their emotions and a
safe place where they can identify with the multiple changes experienced when
going through cancer treatment.
Each
toy character is matched with a child to fill a specific need. Let me give you
a couple of examples: Winnie is a little girl diagnosed with Leukemia. Her
anxiety takes the form of non-stop talking and high energy. Jazzy a wise, jazz-singing frog from N’Awlins
creates a space for her to calm herself and to balance. While Matty, a little
boy from Central Mexico, now confined to a wheelchair, struggling with
Rhabdomyosarcoma, identifies with Al a
Red Kneed Tarantula, from the same location in Mexico, who provides a place for
this young boy to express his feelings in his own language. Al also brings such joy and laughter to
offset overwhelming emotions.
Why
did I write this book? The answer is clear. The angels gave me no choice.
Enjoy,
Patricia
(Pat) David
About the Author
Patricia
(Pat) David is a retired Registered Nurse and Clinical Social Worker living in
South Carolina.
 |
| Patricia David, RN, MSW |
She
and her husband, Gary and rescue dog, Betsy reside in the small community of
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Pat has taken an interest in children
throughout her professional career serving as a Pediatric Nurse, in addition to
a School Nurse, as well as Clinical Social Worker/ School Mental Health
Counselor for more than 25 years. Pat is
inspired by the courage and strength of children and their families as they
weave their way through the many issues facing them with a cancer diagnosis.
She
volunteers at a camp in North Carolina designed for children diagnosed with
cancer. The children affectionately call her “Glamour Gertie,” or “Miss G.” as
she provides complete
transformations/makeovers
for all of the girls. Pat believes that, “These children possess amazing energy
and cancer is an illness that doesn’t stop them from pursuing their dreams.”
Most
recently, Pat volunteers at Jason’s House, a faith based, charitable
organization located in Surfside Beach South Carolina which provides a full
week, all expenses paid, vacation for children diagnosed with cancer, their
siblings, parents and even grandparents. Miss G. is there with her feathered
boas and makeup palate. It’s transformations and hugs for all.
More thoughts by Mary Anne:
I can tell you that I know Patricia David, and she is one of the most caring individuals walking the planet. In fact, she may just be one of those angels in disguise!
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all. We'll see you again in January!
All the best,
Mary Anne Benedetto
Author of Eyelash, 7 Easy
Steps to Memoir Writing: Build a Priceless Legacy One Story at a Time!, Never
Say Perfect, From Italy with Love & Limoncello and Write Your Pet's Life Story in 7 Easy Steps!
