Dr. Lewitzke and Her Daughter Vera Spread Holiday Joy With Book Donation to Mott Children’s Hospital

This Christmas season, Dr. Katherine Lewitzke and her five-year-old daughter, Vera, shared a very special act of kindness—donating a large collection of Amazing Boy and Amazing Girl books to children staying at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.

As both a psychologist and a mother, Dr. Lewitzke has always encouraged her children to participate in at least one charitable act each holiday season. She believes deeply in teaching empathy, compassion, and service from a young age. But this year’s act of giving was guided entirely by Vera’s heart.

A Gift Inspired by Personal Experience

This past summer, Vera spent time at Mott Children’s Hospital herself. Although her stay was brief, it left a lasting impression. She thought a lot about the children who had to stay longer than she did—children who might feel scared, bored, or lonely.

So when December arrived and the family discussed ways to give back, Vera knew exactly what she wanted to do:

“I want to give books to the kids in the hospital,” she told her mom.

But not just any books.

Vera specifically chose Amazing Girl and Amazing Boy—books written by her mom and inspired, in part, by Vera’s own bright, imaginative personality.

Because Vera is the girl behind the inspiration for Amazing Girl, she wanted other children to feel the same sense of strength, joy, and confidence that she feels when she reads the story created with her in mind.

Books That Empower Children

The Amazing Girl and Amazing Boy series, authored by Dr. Lewitzke, celebrate the strength, imagination, kindness, and resilience within every child. The books remind kids that they are brave, creative, capable, and deeply loved just as they are.

And for children spending the holidays in a hospital room, these messages have even greater meaning.

They offer a spark of hope.

A reminder of their courage.

A story that lifts their spirits—even just for a moment.

Vera’s wish was simple yet powerful: to share that feeling with kids who might really need it this Christmas.

Teaching the Next Generation the Heart of Giving

Each year, Dr. Lewitzke encourages each of her children Ari and Vera to select a holiday charitable act rooted in their own compassion. At just five years old, Vera displayed remarkable empathy and generosity—qualities her parents cherish and nurture.

Although Dr. Lewitzke wrote the books, she emphasizes that this act of giving belongs to her daughter:

“This was her idea, her kindness, and her heart. I just helped her carry the boxes.”

Gratitude for Mott Children’s Hospital

Dr. Lewitzke and family extends deep gratitude to the extraordinary staff at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Their compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication made a lasting impact on Vera and the entire family.

It was the comforting, uplifting environment of Mott that inspired this donation—a gesture rooted in appreciation for the care they received and the care the hospital provides to children across Michigan every day.

A Season of Kindness, Led By a Little Girl With a Big Heart

This Christmas, a little girl decided that the children staying in the hospital should feel seen, loved, and empowered. She chose to share the very books that were inspired by her own spirit and strength.

Her hope is that each book brings comfort, courage, and a reminder that every child is truly amazing.

And in the end, that is what the holiday season is all about:

Giving love. Giving hope. And giving from the heart.

Make a Donation

Mott’s Children’s Hospital is always in need of books. If you would like to make a donation, please contact the Child and Family Life Center.