Cancer survivor uses new book to share story

Published 8:18 pm Thursday, November 9, 2017

Kayla Hudson Sawyer is a three-time cancer survivor, and she’s made it her life’s mission to support others battling the disease.

That’s why, when approached with a book proposal, Sawyer saw it as an opportunity to reach a larger audience.

Author Ed Adams met Sawyer, a Washington resident, at a cancer fundraiser, and after posting a video of Sawyer sharing her story to his Facebook page, Adams was inspired by the interest it drew.

“I wanted to get my story out there, too, so I was looking for somebody that would write a book,” Sawyer recalled. “I had my author, so I went for it.”

Adams calls his meeting Sawyer an act of providence, and his decision to write the book as a “nudge from God.” He titled it, “Trusting God Through Cancer: A Collection of Cancer Survivor Stories of Faith and Hope.”

The book follows the stories of Sawyer, Izzie Pittman, who was diagnosed with leukemia at 11 months old, and LeeAnne Lapum, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in her 50s, among many others. There are a total of 34 contributors.

“In each author’s unique voice, the stories detail the survivor’s diagnosis and treatment as well as the faith, love and support that sustained him or her through the cancer journey,” the Amazon book summary reads. “This book is relatable and encouraging for anyone who has dealt with cancer or is currently walking through this daunting disease as each story reminds readers that God is always with us.”

Sawyer said she knows how difficult battling cancer is, and while the support of family and friends is important, it means a lot to have the support of another survivor, as well.

“I wanted to give … another story to back up, so they didn’t have to be by themselves,” Sawyer said. “I’ve always been a people person and a person for inspiration.”

Put simply, the collaboration was meant to be.

This Sunday, Sawyer will help host a book signing at Barnes and Noble in Greenville at 2 p.m. Part of the profits from the book will go toward Riley’s Army, an organization that supports children with cancer and their families.

“Trusting God Through Cancer” can be purchased at the book signing or by visiting www.amazon.com/Trusting-God-through-Cancer-Collection/dp/1547154969.