Additional information
by Elizabeth A. Billups (Illustrator), Gabriela Schechter (Author), Elizabeth A. Billups (Author)
A true story about a spunky puddle jumper and her dog who give readers an honest, hopeful, and even funny look at what it's really like to kick cancer. (To learn more about Gracie's true story, visit facebook.com/teachkidsaboutcancer/) Whether readers have a loved-one with cancer or have cancer themselves, this book will encourage and guide them.Dr. Thomas Smith, a pediatric oncologist, says, "What a wonderful, thought-provoking and uplifting book!" The real-life Puddle Jumper, Gracie, and her dog, Roo, share what cancer is and what people of all ages can do to kick it out, such as chemo, radiation, or surgery. Gracie talks openly about the physical and emotional side effects of fighting cancer and shares practical information, such as what a port or central line looks like and does. Readers also get to see how Gracie and her family aren't battling cancer alone. "I have a huge team helping me kick cancer," she says. "Yes, cancer is tough ... but together we are tougher!"Elizabeth A. Billups, author and illustrator of "The Puddle Jumper's Guide to Kicking Cancer" and other books, is Gracie's mom. For more information, visit facebook.com/teachkidsaboutcancer/
Author Biography
Elizabeth A. Billups, author and illustrator of "The Puddle Jumper's Guide to Kicking Cancer," is Gracie's mom. To see the real pictures that inspired the drawings, visit TeachKidsAboutCancer.com/the-story-behind-the-story.html Elizabeth is also the author of "The Carry Crew Concept: How to Build Crews to Carry People in Hard Times." After developing and managing the very first Carry Crew, called Team Jim, to help her friend who had ALS, Elizabeth wrote a book and workbook to equip others to build their own Carry Crew to help friends who need practical help, such as meal delivery or childcare. Elizabeth knew she wanted to be a writer when she was in first grade, and she is an instinctive communicator. She attended Arizona State University and graduated from the University of Kansas William Allen White School of Journalism. She has more than 10 years of experience in corporate marketing and public relations. Elizabeth lives with her family and two dogs in Colorado.
