Local author remembers Kyler Bradley through book
FAIRFIELD, Ohio (WKRC) - Kyler Bradley captured the heart of the Tri-State as he bravely battled DIPG before he passed away last month.
But, while his fight has ended, thanks to something called the Smile Books Project, his story and his very important message will now live on.
Kyler's Mother read, "The thing about superheroes is that they're always in disguise. That their look is like ordinary people. They live extraordinary lives."
Another thing about superheroes, they can make an impact even after they're gone. That's the case with Kyler Bradley.
"I just wish more people could be like Kyler, because it shows you as adults, your bad days are nothing compared to a kid with DIPG or any form of cancer," Rebecca said.
Six weeks after he passed away, Kyler's mom is doing her best to fight through the grief and keep Kyler's mission alive.
Now, she has one more weapon in her arsenal in her fight against DIPG.
"When Kyler passed away, we had to all become his voice," local author Sarah Rathel said.
Rathel writes books for kids with terminal illnesses. She asks the question, if you could be anything in the world, what would you be?
"It was really hard," Rathel said. "I had to walk away a few times and read it and make sure it was doing what we set out to do, which was to tell the story of a little boy who was given a battle that he, that nobody ever wants to fight. And he fought it above and beyond, and better than any of us probably ever could have."
"When you're walking around with this book and people ask you, 'who's Kyler?' Take five minutes and tell them Kyler's story. Tell them everything you know about it."
From his pet bearded dragon, to his hopes of one day becoming a firefighter, to his favorite superhero, Captain America, Rebecca says the book is a perfect portrait of her son.
"Kyler asked for a miracle and believed it would happen all along. He's now free from pain and guiding us to stay forever Kyler strong," Rebecca read.
Tuesday morning, Kyler's classmates will be presented with copies of his book and his school in Fairfield will dedicate a bench in his honor.
If you'd like to purchase a copy of the book, CLICK HERE.
All proceeds from the book will go to the Kyler Strong Foundation.
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