‘GraciousSLE in Love: A Story of Growing Up with Lupus’, written by K.A. Dawkins and illustrated by Julia Jochmann is a tender and beautifully told story that explores the power of love expressed through everyday acts of care between a mother and her daughters
With heartfelt detail, Dawkins captures how a mother’s love shines through simple, daily activities—walking to school, preparing meals, and styling her daughters’ hair. As the mother begins to show signs of chronic illness, the roles within the family gently shift, with the daughters gradually taking on caregiving responsibilities of their own. The book offers a moving reminder that, in families affected by chronic illness, love doesn’t fade—it evolves, deepens, and becomes even more resilient.
Drawing from her own life, Dawkins shares the perspective of a child growing up with a mother who has lived with lupus for over 30 years. Her personal experience reveals how families adapt to changing needs, navigating a delicate balance of care that flows both ways—from parent to child and child to parent.
“We see, we listen, and we learn as we try to help our mom.”
Meet the author at the Toronto WALK for Lupus Ontario at Ramsden Park on July 19 for your chance to purchase a signed copy of the book.