Giving Back: a greater purpose

Why my 3rd book, The X-tails Ski at Spider Ridge, is near and dear to my heart. It’s about giving back.

In The X-tails Ski at Spider Rider, the main character, Rhumba, is in a wheelchair, and she skis sitting down on a sit-ski. At first, the X-tails see Rhumba as having a disability, but it doesn’t take long before they realize that she actually has different abilities. This book is sure to warm the heart of any reader, and it’s amazing for me to think back on how this book came to be.

It was in the fall of 2013 when I first met Nancy Harris, who is the Northern Coordinator for Wheelchair Basketball and the Let’s Play Northern BC Program. She invited me for a coffee, and in that one hour meeting, she opened my eyes to the great work being done to promote inclusive physical activity for kids with physical disabilities and mobility limitations. I was so interested in what Nancy had to say, it wasn’t long before her message and her personal story had a big impact on me. Nancy’s message about inclusion and physical activity aligned perfectly with the X-tails children’s book series. Even though I had several stories already written and waiting to be published, I knew I needed to write a new story—something different.

As Nancy and I were about to part ways that day, I suggested that if I were to write a new book, I could donate part of the proceeds. I was thinking out loud when I said it, and at the time, I had no idea how to do such a thing, but I meant it. Over the following months, I poured all of my energy into writing The X-tails Ski at Spider Ridge. I wanted this book to be a blast to read, but I also wanted it to have a greater purpose.

Details about the donations:

For every copy sold of The X-tails Ski at Spider Ridge, 50% of my royalties are donated for kids with physical disabilities and mobility limitations, which will provide opportunities to use sports wheelchairs and other recreational equipment. We believe in giving back.

Currently, we have raised over $3500 and are in the process of purchasing a sports wheelchair for the Prince George area. This is something we are very excited about! We will provide an update when everything is finalized.

In 2017 and beyond, I am asking you for suggestions. Do you have something in mind—a project that is near and dear to your heart, which aligns well with this cause? Click here to contact me with your idea!

How you can help:

Buying the book is a great way to raise funds, but there are many more ways to help. Perhaps you can sell the book in your store or as part of an event or fundraiser. Maybe you can get the book in your local library. How about having me read at your local school or combining my author visit with a wheelchair basketball event? The ideas are endless! Click here to contact me with your idea!