Beloved television icon Erik Estrada, known for his legendary role as “Ponch” in CHiPs, has joined forces with best-selling author Steven Manchester to write a children’s book. Officer Erik and the Very Special Dad will warm hearts, spark conversation and inspire as it serves to normalize living with a chronic disease or disability.
The character of Officer Erik is loosely based on Estrada, who, in real life, is a police officer in several states. Always looking to promote kindness, Erik was the perfect partner for Manchester.
In the book, Officer Erik and Zeke (the very special dad) cross paths in a chance meeting. Struck by his challenging mobility issues, Officer Erik yearns to help Zeke, only to discover that Zeke, who has MS, would rather team up with the police officer to help an elderly couple in need.
Showing that people with MS can lead lives of service as well, this heartwarming story provides an opportunity for families to discuss what it means to be touched by chronic disease or disability, how to pay it forward in life, and that doing something for others, no matter how big or small, is the greatest reward.
“It’s been an honor to work with Erik Estrada on a story that promises to bring awareness to MS and the people who live with it,” Manchester said. Estrada added, “I am really thrilled to have the character, Officer Erik, based on me and my life experiences. Having had a family member diagnosed with MS, this book is especially meaningful to me and my wife,”
Produced and conceived by Just Do GOOD Entertainment, and published by The Three Tomatoes Publishing, Officer Erik and the Very Special Dad serves to inspire individuals to do something positive for others. The producers worked with 101 Mobility to integrate the brand that provides numerous mobility products and services into the storyline.
A portion of proceeds from each book sold at retail will be donated to local MS Charities. The book is also available at a bulk wholesale price for organizations to purchase and utilize as a fundraising vehicle.
Officer Erik and the Very Special Dad launched on major bookseller platforms, including Amazon, in time for MS Awareness Month in March.
About Just Do GOOD Entertainment:
Founded by producers Monty Hobbs and Valerie Smaldone, Just Do GOOD Entertainment creates content that not only uplifts audiences but actually provides some kind of positive change in the content they produce. Valerie and Monty were compelled to embark upon this book journey after the passing of Valerie’s husband, Rick, who suffered from MS for decades. This book is dedicated to him and his memory, as well as for all those who are afflicted by MS.
www.justdogoodent.com
