A Chapter of Kindness: Georgetown Senior Pens Children's Book Inspired by Sister’s Cancer Journey
In the pages of her handmade children’s book, Brylee Dew offers something many teenagers don’t realize they can give: comfort, compassion, and a powerful message that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a difference.
The Georgetown High School senior was just 16 when her older sister, Bailey, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at 18. In the months that followed, Brylee turned to what she knew best—stories and creativity—to cope with the uncertainty. What began as a way to process her own emotions grew into something bigger: a children’s book written to help others understand how they can support loved ones facing illness.
“I remember thinking, ‘I’m just a kid—how can I help?’” Brylee said. “But then I realized there are ways, even little ones, that make a big impact.”
Bailey (left) and Brylee (right) Dew
The book, which Brylee wrote and illustrated herself, highlights simple yet meaningful ways children—and adults—can show support during difficult times. Knitting hats for patients undergoing chemotherapy, writing encouraging letters, and sharing cozy blankets are just a few of the heartfelt gestures featured in her story. Through soft illustrations and accessible language, Brylee gently encourages empathy and action.
“It’s not just about what Bailey went through,” she said. “It’s about helping others feel seen, supported, and less alone.”
This spring, Brylee’s work earned top honors at the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE) state competition, where she presented her book in the Children’s Literature K-3 category and walked away with a gold award. It was a full-circle moment for the aspiring educator, who spent her senior year interning in elementary classrooms across Georgetown ISD.
“I absolutely love working with kids,” she said. “Getting to combine my passion for teaching with something so personal to me has been really meaningful.”
Brylee plans to continue her journey in education this fall at Texas A&M University, where she’ll major in early childhood education. Her goal? To one day teach 4th grade science and math—and to keep spreading messages of kindness along the way.
As for Bailey, she was declared cancer-free in January 2025—a milestone that brought overwhelming relief and renewed purpose to the Dew family.
“I wanted to write something that would not only help me, but others,” Brylee said. “And now, I hope it helps someone else—whether they’re the one going through it or standing beside someone who is.”
Brylee talks with Carver student at the Read Aloud event
In Brylee’s story, healing doesn’t just happen in hospitals—it begins in the hearts of those who care, and sometimes, in the hands of a teenager with a story to tell.
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Brylee read her book to a group of students at Carver Elementary School during a signing event in May. Books have been purchased and donated by Angela Moorman, a former GISD parent and community supporter, to place in all elementary libraries across the district after the event. You can check out Brylee’s book on Amazon.
Brylee also participated in the Student Visionaries of the Year campaign through the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society last fall. She and her team earned $42,000 for cancer research.
