Mississippi author Molly May will sign copies of her inspirational memoir, “My Crowning Achievement (Beating Cancer),” at the Webster County Public Library at 1:30 p.m. March 9.
A native of Houston and a graduate of Mississippi State University, May has twice held the title of Miss Amory and recently concluded a year as Miss Dixie. She served as both Miss Mississippi State University and Miss Maroon and White while a student at MSU from 2015-17 and placed in the top 10 four times while competing for the title of Miss Mississippi.
A second-generation breast cancer survivor, May was diagnosed four years ago with the rare BRCA-1 gene and chose a double mastectomy after being told by her medical team that a breast cancer diagnosis was a near certainty by her mid-20s. Only 19 then, she remains the youngest person in the state of Mississippi to have had the surgery.
“What I want to do most is help people,” May said. “This book, and my nonprofit, are my ways to do that.”
That nonprofit organization, Caps That Care, raises funds for Children’s Miracle Network hospitals and collects head coverings made of soft, breathable fabric for cancer patients of all ages. May and her mother, Debra, make regular donations of items like beanies, bandannas, scarves and soft caps to cancer patients who find wigs uncomfortable.
“I felt my story could be inspirational, but I knew Caps That Care could help,” May said. “It’s something tangible I can leave behind.”
May’s book was published by Dogwood Press of Brandon. A portion of proceeds from every copy sold will benefit Batson Children’s Hospital in Jackson and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis.
“Molly’s story absolutely grabbed me,” said Joe Lee, Dogwood Press editor-in-chief. “She has a true servant’s heart, and she is making it her life’s work to comfort cancer patients as they fight for their lives.
“The more I talked to Molly and saw how passionate and dedicated she is to her service platform, the more strongly I felt about donating to the hospitals through book sales. It’s our fervent hope that this book — and Molly’s perseverance and strong faith – will impact people who are hurting in a very positive way.”
The Webster County Public Library is located at 445 W. Fox Ave. To reserve autographed copies, call 258-7515. First-edition, signed copies are $14 plus tax.
For more information about all Dogwood Press titles, visit dogwoodpress.com, and read the Dogwood Press blog, The Little Publisher That Could.
