When C. L. Smith’s niece Sandra was diagnosed with Lyme disease after 10 years of misdiagnoses and improper treatments, the family was relieved.

Yet, little did they know, Sandra’s struggles were far from over. She was subsequently diagnosed with an aggressive form of thyroid cancer.

However, throughout all the doctor’s appointments and operations, there was a bright spot in Sandra’s life, her beloved dog Ginger.

But when Ginger also developed Lyme disease, they both found themselves fighting for their lives. While supporting and comforting each other, Sandra and Ginger proved they were each other’s best medicine.

“I want young people to be inspired by the love and devotion that Sandra and Ginger exhibited to one another despite their own serious health issues,” Smith says. “I believe having each other’s support was quite literally lifesaving.”

In “Ginger’s Story,” Smith introduces young readers to Ginger, a lovable, cuddly golden retriever who is adopted as a therapy dog for Sandra, a courageous young girl with chronic Lyme disease.

Ginger quickly assimilates into the household becoming close with the family’s other pets while also looking after Sandra. Ginger loves spending time with Sandra on the good days and the bad. But when Ginger becomes ill, the dog discovers that she needs Sandra just as much as Sandra needs her.

Seeking to raise awareness and promote better funding for research, Smith educates readers on the devastating effects of living with chronic Lyme disease.

Smith hopes the book will help shine a spotlight on the tick-borne illness. “Lyme is one the fastest growing infectious diseases in the US,” she said. “What better time to fund research and eliminate misdiagnosis than now?”

“Ginger’s Story” is available for purchase at online retailers.

SOURCE: CL Smith, author