Brightening Hospital Stays, One Story at a Time.
Our Story
The Bradykin Children’s Foundation: Inspired by Family, Brightening Hospital Stays
Hello, I’m Susan Downing, creator of the Bradykin series and founder of the Bradykin Children’s Foundation. For over 12 years, my family and I have been writing Bradykin books together — joyful stories inspired by our beloved Coton de Tulear and the values we hold dear: kindness, connection, simpler times, the importance of families, giving back, and the magic of imagination.
This mission has roots in my own family’s journey. When my daughter Megan was just two months old, she was in the hospital. One night, a nurse quietly brought me a beautiful handmade quilt. I never knew who made it — it was an anonymous gift from someone who simply wanted to offer comfort. People also donated toys and activities for my young son Matt, who was still little himself.
Over the years, Megan spent time in and out of hospitals, and time after time, acts of kindness from strangers and friends alike made those days brighter. Whether it was a small toy, a warm blanket, or a thoughtful note, each gesture reminded us that we were not alone. Those moments of generosity stayed with me and planted the seed for what would one day become the Bradykin Children’s Foundation.
From the beginning, Bradykin has been about more than books. We believe every child deserves comfort, fun, and hope — especially during challenging times. That’s why we created the Bradykin Children’s Foundation: to deliver Bradykin Care Packages to children in hospitals, filled with our family-written books, a cuddly plush, and fun activities to spark joy and inspire reading.
Bradykin himself was a cherished part of our family — playful, loving, and full of personality. Though he has since passed, his joyful spirit lives on in every story we write and every care package we deliver. His adventures continue to bring smiles to children everywhere, carrying forward the love and happiness he gave to us.
Hospital stays can be lonely, overwhelming, and filled with uncertainty for a child. Our mission is to bring a moment of light — a giggle, a smile, a new favorite story — right to their bedside. Every book we write is donated to the Foundation, so when a child receives a Bradykin story, they’re holding a gift from our hearts to theirs.
Reading and play are powerful tools for children’s well-being. A good book can transport a child to a place of adventure, hope, and laughter, while play encourages creativity, connection, and resilience. Together, they nurture mental health, provide comfort, and remind children they are not alone.
Bradykin’s adventures encourage kids to dream, explore, and embrace the joy of being a child — whether that’s playing outside, curling up with a book, or sharing a story with a friend. Through the Bradykin Children’s Foundation, we share that joy far beyond our own family, reaching hospital rooms, schools, and communities across the country and even around the world.
Our goal is simple: brighten hospital stays, encourage reading, and spread hope one Bradykin story at a time — while always giving back to the communities we serve.
Together, we can bring comfort, joy, and imagination to children who need it most.
#BradykinMoves
The Inspiration
Bradykin
Meet Bradykin — the adventure-loving Coton de Tulear with a heart for helping kids.
From his first appearance on Animal Planet’s Too Cute at just 8 weeks old, Bradykin has been capturing hearts with his playful spirit and joyful antics. Today, he’s more than a social media sensation — he’s the face of the Bradykin Children’s Foundation.
In our family-written children’s books, Bradykin’s adventures inspire young readers to dream big, explore their world, and discover the magic of reading. Through the Foundation, those same stories come to life in Bradykin Care Packages — filled with books, a cuddly plush, and fun activities — delivered to children in hospitals to bring comfort, hope, and smiles.
Join Bradykin’s movement, #BradykinMoves, to share the joy of play, the power of stories, and the importance of caring for one another. Together, we can brighten hospital stays, promote literacy, and inspire kids everywhere to imagine, explore, and believe in a brighter tomorrow.
#BradykinMoves
Contributers
Susan Downing
Matthew Downing
Matthew Downing
Susan, co-author of all the Bradykin books, infuses her creative writing skills into captivating tales centered around her family's cherished Cotons: Bradykin and Baileykin. Her stories radiate inspiration, joy, and undeniable cuteness, touching the hearts of readers far and wide.
"Bradykin's stories are more than just tales; they're a g
Susan, co-author of all the Bradykin books, infuses her creative writing skills into captivating tales centered around her family's cherished Cotons: Bradykin and Baileykin. Her stories radiate inspiration, joy, and undeniable cuteness, touching the hearts of readers far and wide.
"Bradykin's stories are more than just tales; they're a gateway to a world of imagination, exploration, and boundless joy. They bring back memories of simpler times, where family dinners and playing kick the can were cherished traditions. Together, let's inspire the next generation to embrace the wonders of the great outdoors!"
- Susan, AKA Q-tip
Matthew Downing
Matthew Downing
Matthew Downing
Matthew is the co-author of "Bradykin's Snowy Adventure" and brings his creative talents to the story. He also serves as the chief marketing director, dedicated to building the Bradykin brand.
“Still hitting the slopes and enjoying golfing, I know firsthand the invaluable impact of outdoor activities on both physical and mental well-bei
Matthew is the co-author of "Bradykin's Snowy Adventure" and brings his creative talents to the story. He also serves as the chief marketing director, dedicated to building the Bradykin brand.
“Still hitting the slopes and enjoying golfing, I know firsthand the invaluable impact of outdoor activities on both physical and mental well-being. Through Bradykin, we strive to share that love for the great outdoors with children everywhere, inspiring them to embrace a healthy, active lifestyle that they'll carry with them for years to come."
- Matthew, AKA Mattykin
Megan Downing
Matthew Downing
Megan Downing
Megan is a dynamic creative specialist who co-authored five books in the Bradykin series. Her vibrant contributions shine through, particularly in "Bradykin Visits Martha’s Vineyard," where her imaginative flair adds an extra layer of magic to the story.
“Growing up, I cherished every moment spent outdoors, exploring nature and feeling t
Megan is a dynamic creative specialist who co-authored five books in the Bradykin series. Her vibrant contributions shine through, particularly in "Bradykin Visits Martha’s Vineyard," where her imaginative flair adds an extra layer of magic to the story.
“Growing up, I cherished every moment spent outdoors, exploring nature and feeling the sun on my face. Now, I understand the importance of fostering a love for the outdoors in children. From Martha's Vineyard to simply enjoying the great outdoors, every adventure shapes us and bonds us to the world around us. It's not just about physical health; it's about nurturing their spirits and fostering a lifelong connection with the natural world."
- Megan, AKA Megykin