“Bailey’s Remarkable Plan,” a recently released Christian nonfiction book, now is available at Sachse Public Library in Sachse. The book is the autobiography of David R. Hardiman, who endured a lifetime of illness alone until he crossed paths with Bailey – a female shih tzu – who he considers a gift from God.
“Bailey’s Remarkable Plan” (Brown Books Publishing Group) shares the special bond Hardiman has with Bailey, who is his best friend, service dog and hero. Hardiman of Arlington was born with a rare medical condition that eluded diagnosis for decades, and he developed post-traumatic stress disorder late in life. Bailey senses when Hardiman is about to have an attack, and she alerts him and helps him deal with the horror.
“My story, our story, is a lesson in faith, perseverance and love,” said Hardiman, a businessman and entrepreneur. “There were dark times when I questioned God’s plan for me, but then he blessed me with a genius, beautiful and extraordinary dog.”
“Bailey’s Remarkable Plan” also cautions against judging people whose disabilities aren’t obvious. Like Hardiman, some people don't look like they have disabilities but their disabilities are real.
“As more of us age, disabilities will increase and many people will rely on service dogs,” he said.
While people are more accepting of service dogs in public places than they were even a few years ago, Hardiman said more education is needed. That includes understanding laws that protect those who rely on service dogs and learning there are many kinds of service dogs – not just German shepherds and Labrador retrievers.
“Bailey’s Remarkable Plan” is popular with Sachse library’s patrons already. The book has a five-star rating from readers, said Mignon Morse, library manager.
“The Sachse Public Library serves a growing town of about 25,000 people,” Morse said. “The majority of the people who are library users are people with families, so we are always searching for good stories that will appeal to families.
“I was impressed with the reviews of ‘Bailey’s Remarkable Plan’ and thought it would be a great addition to the collection. I plan to put the title on my own list of books to read.”
The library has a hardcover of “Bailey’s Remarkable Plan.” To learn more about the library’s offerings and services, go to www.cityofsachse.com/library. The library is at 3815 Sachse Road, Building C.
Hardiman said “Bailey’s Remarkable Plan” and his life are a testament to God’s power and the blessings God offers. His book is family friendly and suitable for adults and children.
“My story clearly defines by my life why it is so important to never give up, regardless of the difficulties and barriers that can be placed in the way of success,” he said. “Taking the negatives and turning them into momentum can change the future to a positive.”
Hardcovers of “Bailey’s Remarkable Plan,” also are available via Hardiman’s website http://www.baileysremarkableplan.com. To receive autographed copies, send emails to baileysremarkableplan@gmail.com.
Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other online retailers also offer “Bailey’s Remarkable Plan.”