Author Brenda West Cockerell to Donate Proceeds From Book to Breast Cancer Research

Philanthropist and former educator Brenda West Cockerell has announced one hundred percent of the proceeds from her first children's book, In Grandma's Garden, will benefit breast cancer research, support initiatives for women and children, and educational scholarships. In conjunction with The Beacon Family Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to provide resources for families struggling with loved ones fighting cancer, donations will be made to organizations across the United States that align with the Foundation's mission.

In Grandma's Garden was written as a tribute to Holly Horton, a fellow teacher and Ms. Cockerell's dear friend who passed away from breast cancer in 2009. Together, the friends shared memories of blissful days spent in their grandmothers' gardens and dreamed of creating a children's book that would bring readers the same joy. The book captures the contentment, peace and safety of being alone in a vibrant garden through the creative imagination of a child.

"Holly was always so joyful and full of life. She was a dear friend whose battle was one that many women in our community are fighting," Cockerell said. "I can't think of a better way to honor Holly than by donating the proceeds of In Grandma's Garden to fund research in hope of finding a cure for breast cancer."

One of the current beneficiaries is Baylor Health Care System Foundation to support Celebrating Women for the purpose of breast cancer research by Dr. Joyce O'Shaughnessy, medical oncologist at the Breast Cancer Research and Treatment Center at Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center at Dallas and Celebrating Women Endowed Chair in Breast Cancer Research. Dr. O'Shaughnessy specializes in breast cancer treatment within Texas Oncology, serves as Chair of Breast Cancer Research for the US Oncology Research Network and is founder of The School of Breast Oncology. Over the past 16 years, more than $26 million has been raised through Celebrating Women, an annual luncheon to raise funds for Baylor Scott & White Health - North Texas' fight against breast cancer.

In Grandma's Garden is illustrated by Linda Ólafsdóttir and designed by Chris Mulder. It is available online for purchase for $19.95 at grandmasgardenbook.com and amazon.com. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About the Author
In Grandma's Garden is Brenda West Cockerell's first book. Prior to her work as an author, Cockerell had a six-year career as an elementary school educator in New York City and Houston. With her dear friend Holly as inspiration, Brenda hopes In Grandma's Garden will bring joy to the lives of children who read it, as well as change to those struggling with breast cancer.

About The Beacon Family Foundation
The mission of The Beacon Family Foundation is to provide resources for families struggling with loved ones fighting cancer. Funds go toward breast cancer research, support initiatives for women and children, and educational scholarships. Founded in 2014 by Executive Director Brenda W. Cockerell, The Beacon Family Foundation is a qualified, exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit charity.