Together- A book for dying children

I wrote “Together” for families who are coming to terms with the end of life of a beloved child. It’s for the dying child, and for all who love them. “Together” addresses all of the things that children think about as they prepare to let go of living... who will take care of their parents? Will their loved ones be able to feel their presence? Where will their energy go, and will they be remembered? Tenderly written and beautifully illustrated, this unique book helps open up conversations between sick children, their families, caregivers, and medical team- so that no child ever dies with questions left unanswered, or sacred words left unspoken. The book offers children and families the opportunity to process and understand life’s most challenging transition— together.

I have the honor of working with the world’s bravest children- those who have been in treatment for years on end with life-threatening illness. Too often, these courageous children and young adults pass away without a conversation about what happens next. For their parents and caregivers, who are holding onto hope, it can be too painful or frightening to bring up the subject. From my years as a parent of a child who died of cancer, and leader of a nonprofit that works with children facing life-threatening illness, I have learned that children know when they are dying- but often keep their thoughts and questions to themselves for fear of upsetting their loved ones.

It took 6 years for me and the illustrator, Olivia Shea, to get this special book ready for publication. We have shared it with children, families, and medical professionals, and have had overwhelmingly positive feedback. We know that this book is a desperately-needed resource, and we are eager to get it printed and into the hands of the children who need it. The book has several pages at the end with writing and drawing prompts, to help children think about and record the things that matter most to them. Donated funds will be used to pay the graphic designer, print and package the first batch of 500 books, pay the illustrator a small stipend, and ship samples of the  book to hospitals, hospices, support organizations, and families. Profits from sales of the book will be used to print and distribute more copies, allowing the project to be self-sustaining after the initial launch. 

Thank you for considering our project! 

With love and thanks, 

Beecher Grogan & Olivia Shea