Parents have written these informative children’s books about chronic illness. They help children and adults understand more about what it’s like to live with these difficulties.
I’m the Biggest Helper by Heather Foisy
This project was a family affair. Heather Yaskiw Foisy entitled her children’s picture book, I’m the Biggest Helper with Momma’s Autoimmune Disease. She wrote this book for children because chronic illnesses affects the whole family, including children And then, what does the child and parent do?
Heather has been living with chronic illness all her adult life, first becoming ill at 20 years old. Finally diagnosed with Sjögren’s and lupus, she is now a chronic illness advocate.
Heather lives with her husband and their 7-year-old son, Phoenix.
Meanwhile, I guess you want to know what the book is about? And how it can help people with chronic illnesses?
This children’s book, I’m the Biggest Helper with Momma’s Autoimmune Disease, teaches young children about autoimmune diseases in an easy-to-learn way, and it demonstrates ways children can help their parents. The illustrations use cartoons to picture the son (based on Phoenix) and his mother.
Written in two sections, the first teaches children about autoimmune diseases, showing their invisible nature. I feel this part holds great value as it educates children that not all painful and disabling conditions can be observed by others.
The second section illustrates how a child can help the parent or caregiver who may be in pain. The examples given come from Heather’s life. They teach children to observe others and have empathy for them. I believe this portion can help them see how they could also aid other children who may be experiencing chronic illness.
“This wonderful picture book for children and adults alike introduces the complex world of autoimmune diseases in a compassionate and easy-to-learn way.” (back cover)
Word of caution
One person commented elsewhere on her experience as a child with a disabled mother who forced her to help. It left emotional scars, so care needs to be exercised in this area.
Where can I order this?
Order Heather Yaskiw Foisy’s children’s book at Amazon, and on ETSY. If you order through ETSY, Heather will sign and personalize the book. And $5 goes to Lupus Canada.
Life’s a Polyp with Zeke and Katie by Jenny Jones
Rare diseases. Know much? Do children?
Today, we are blessed with the Internet, but there are relatively few books about unusual or rare diseases and disorders. And you are even more unlikely to find children’s books on this subject.
Jenny Jones’ children’s book is written for older children. But it works equally well for adults looking for an overview of FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis). Life’s A Polyp comes with a helpful glossary explaining unusual medical terms in simple words.
The main character is ten-year old Zeke. The story begins with his not-unusual symptoms. But when they continue and worsen, his mother realizes something is wrong. We can follow their search for answers. Medical professionals finally diagnose FAP. At that point, tough decisions must be made about painful and severe treatments.
In the hospital, Zeke meets Katie, a girl who also has FAP and has already had similar treatments. She shares her experiences, including wonderful support she has received.
I’m sure this must be a difficult condition to live with, especially as a child, and people who live with it could use our support. But since FAP is such a highly personal condition, it is up to the person involved to decide whether to share anything about it. However, if you already know someone with it, you could use your ingenuity to discover how you could help.
In short, I highly recommend Life’s A Polyp. It is worth the read.
About the author
Jenny Jones has lived with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) and Short Bowel (SBS) since her childhood. She advocates for people living with these problems. Her website is also named Life’s a Polyp. Jenny donates all profits from her books to charities dealing with these diseases.
Places to order this book
This book is available from the publisher, Imagine We Publishers, and from Amazon.
Please consider checking out these children’s books about chronic illness. Help adults and children learn about these difficulties.