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English: Hello, my name is Gary Davis. I have been teaching American Sign Language (ASL) at the University of Oklahoma for nine years, where I also serve as the ASL Program Director. For the past eleven years, I have volunteered as a Signing Santa, creating joyful and inclusive experiences for Deaf children. In addition, I am the author of two books—while they may be thin, their message is powerful. My books are dedicated to everyone who has a Deaf child in their family, as well as educators, medical professionals, employers, legal professionals, and anyone who interacts with Deaf children or adults. Communication access is a basic human right, regardless of age. My purpose in writing these books is to teach others how to break down the barriers that prevent effective communication. Everyone deserves access to communication. It is vital. I want to be honest: writing has never been my strength. I am not a writer by nature, but my experiences have deeply impacted me. Growing up, I faced heavy trauma—language deprivation, isolation, lack of empowerment—and these experiences affected my mental health with stress, anxiety, paranoia, depression, and frustration. Today, I pour that pain and hope into my book. Writing has helped me heal, and I believe my story can help others. Some might ask, “Why not go to counseling or therapy?” My answer is that, in my experience, counselors and psychologists often do not understand the Deaf community. I have tried seeking help, but I never felt truly understood or heard. Instead, I choose to share my trauma with my Deaf community—my true supporters—because they understand these same experiences. Together, we fight for our rights and human dignity. My motivation to write grew even stronger after a powerful moment as Signing Sant. As Deaf children visited me, I saw their joy light up when they could use sign language. Yet, I also realized that this joy was temporary. After their visit, they returned to a world without communication access, where they faced the same barriers I did as a child—language deprivation, isolation, and lack of empowerment. One child, just five years old, stood out to me. He had a cochlear implant, but no one in his family signed. I sat between him and his father, unable to communicate. There was no interpreter. The boy looked happy on the outside, but inside, he was deprived of true connection. This broke my heart and reminded me of my own childhood. Deaf children today are still facing the same barriers as generations before. That is why I decided to write my books—to help others understand the importance of language, culture, and identity in the Deaf community. We need more Deaf role models and more support from organizations like NAD and OAD. My books are not about criticism, but about education and understanding. The children’s book is especially visual, designed to help young readers connect emotionally. I dedicate my books to my mother, who helped break my own communication barriers. I also want to thank Deaf teachers, educators who sign, and organizations that support Deaf children. My books are not perfect—I am still learning the craft of writing—but they are filled with love and a desire to help. When you choose to buy my books, you are also supporting a good cause. I donate 5% of the proceeds to the NW Rotary Club, which has supported Deaf children’s projects since the 1980s. Next year, I plan to support other Deaf schools and programs as well. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting the Deaf community. Together, we can make a difference.