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.
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 Benedetto:
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!
