Elizabeth A. Billups, author and illustrator of "The Puddle Jumper's Guide to Kicking Cancer," is Gracie's mom. To see the real pictures that inspired the drawings, visit TeachKidsAboutCancer.com/the-story-behind-the-story.html Elizabeth is also the author of "The Carry Crew Concept: How to Build Crews to Carry People in Hard Times." After developing and managing the very first Carry Crew, called Team Jim, to help her friend who had ALS, Elizabeth wrote a book and workbook to equip others to build their own Carry Crew to help friends who need practical help, such as meal delivery or childcare. Elizabeth knew she wanted to be a writer when she was in first grade, and she is an instinctive communicator. She attended Arizona State University and graduated from the University of Kansas William Allen White School of Journalism. She has more than 10 years of experience in corporate marketing and public relations. Elizabeth lives with her family and two dogs in Colorado.