S.W. Lothian – Author

Recently I put a call out to fellow authors, book enthusiasts, and visitors to this site for book donations. These books were destined for a very special place, where they could put a smile on the face of kids in the battle of their life.

As I’ve previously mentioned, since my daughter’s fight with childhood cancer, I have been very involved in a local non-profit organisation (Kids Cancer Support Group) here in my home city. Our main focus is to connect, enrich and support kids and their families who are in the midst of childhood cancer, and all the turmoil and heartbreak it brings.

Over the past few months, I’ve been working on a project that will result in the installation of a Little Library on the Oncology ward at our Children’s Hospital. It will be used by both in-patient and out-patient families. There will be a selection of new books that can be borrowed and returned, along with a regularly replenished shelf of books that the families can choose and keep as gifts.

Since my original post (HERE), I have received many donated books from authors in Canada, USA, UK, Europe, Middle East, Australia, and local supporters as well. I would like to sincerely thank everyone who donated for their amazing support and generosity. It’s very humbling to have such support from so many places.

Here is a selection of just some of the donations we have received. Thank You.

Unfortunately, our Little Library has encountered some delays along the way, which have been beyond our control. Our Children’s Hospital was first established in 1909 and has had many expansions and upgrades over those years. Although it has served our growing city well, it’s well and truly long overdue for replacement.

The construction of a new $1.2B hospital has been in progress for the past few years, however, its final completion has been frought with delays. It is currently 18 months behind schedule and we believe that the opening will not occur until after our winter (ie. End of northern hemisphere summer). Word is that nothing will move from the old to the new. This makes us wary of installing the library if there is any possibility there will be problems in moving it to the new hospital. We are currently awaiting advice on the best approach.

In the meantime, the ‘Borrow Me’ books have been covered with clear film so they can be easily wiped down for hygienic reasons, and an initial supply of ‘Keep Me’ books have been tied with gold ribbon as gifts (the symbol of childhood cancer awareness). In addition to the books, we will be including a secret stash of ‘Pamper Me’ supplies for parents, including toothpaste, shampoo, hand cream etc. We would like it to be a place where families can go for quick free supplies when they have a need.

I know all too well, of the roller-coaster these families are all riding, and the relentless wave of uncertainty and stress. They are in the midst of a battle that none have chosen, but one that none can give up.

I hope that this initiative (as small as it may be) can at least bring a smile, or help them to while away the long hours spent in the hospital. And I hope that I can instill a little more awareness to those who are fortunate enough not to have to join this life-changing club. With awareness, we can demand more funds, and with funds, we work towards a cure.

Please remember these families.
They were just like you the day before diagnosis.

If you are interested in supporting our Little Library, it’s not too late. Please complete the form below and I’ll be in touch with more details. Thanks for taking the time to read this post. Believe me, I know it’s not the easiest subject to read about, but it’s an important one. I hope you can help.