“I am a Vivor” is a remarkable story about four year old Abigail Ashley who was born with a large malignant tumor on her left arm. The uplifting story tells of a child, who despite her limb loss, has managed to become a cancer survivor, and has let nothing stand in her way. “I am a Vivor” is a memorable story of one family’s ability to defy the odds together and add a special twist to their daughter’s view of her limb loss.
The captivating photography depicts how cancer did not destroy the lives and hopes of the Ashley family, and how this little girl refuses to be slowed down. This is an inspiring story of a young cancer survivor and her family’s strength to uphold her confidence in herself. The kid friendly language is perfect for adolescents who struggle with a physical handicap, and the story is positively upbeat. Abagail Ashley’s story is wonderful for helping children and families better understand surviving cancer and living with a limb difference.
“I’m a Vivor” was written by Leona Booms-Ashley (mother of Abigail). The story was inspired by her family’s need to find literature for support during the critical period of Abigail’s first month of life. She was searching for answers and found support through the Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor; however, explaining cancer to her other children, in just the right way, was difficult. Her hope is to help other families like hers who are overcoming cancer or a limb loss to find support and hope. She feels her ability to help others understand is God’s gift to her.
