Family connection results in The Beacon
Contributed by Family Connection

Beth Tally was inspired by her friendship with Katie Burgess to write The Beacon. Both women live in Columbia which will be featured at The Happy Bookseller September 22.

Many friendships fade over time, through the course of changes in life and location. But one friendship between two Midlands women has stood the test of time and is now the inspiration for a new book, which benefits a local non- profit close to their hearts, Family Connection.

Beth Kendrick Tally and Katie Hardaway Burgess met in July of 1966, becoming across- the- street neighbors when Katie's family moved to Greenville. Both were upcoming freshmen at Furman University. Their families grew closer, and Beth and Katie soon formed an unshakable bond. They never lived in the same state but stayed in touch through their families for 16 years. Eventually, they were reunited in 1986 when they moved to Columbia. For the last two decades they have shared the joys and accomplishments of their children and grieved together in times of sorrow.

"We were always connected. We were always the first person each of us would call when something happened to any members of our families," said Katie.

In 1990, following the birth of her daughter Bryann, Katie co- founded an organization called Family Connection, a support network for families of children with special needs.

In May of 2004, Beth and her husband John embarked on a new journey - a life of sailing. One morning while in the Bahamas they heard an announcement on cruiser's net radio about a barbecue to benefit a church in Williams Town on Little Exuma Island. Touched by what Beth experienced that special day through the people of Williams Town and their spirit of community and caring, Beth began writing what was to become her book, The BeaconThe Beacon. is the fictional story of a family living on this island and community, faith, and overcoming obstacles. Upon the completion of her book, Beth realized how much her story paralleled Katie's journey and other families who have children with special needs. Beth wanted to honor her friend by supporting Family Connection and donating a portion of the proceeds from her book sales to the organization.

"I thought, 'If I'm going to do anything with this book, I want to do this in honor of Katie, her husband Jim, and her daughter because they are examples of what this book is about,' " said Beth.

Their journey of friendship will bring them together again on Saturday, September 22, from 11 am to 1 pm at The Happy Bookseller, where Beth will enjoy Thheer Bfierascto bnook signing for .

Family Connection is a support network for families who have children with special needs. Founded by parents and professionals in 1990, the statewide, non- profit organization helps thousands of children in South Carolina reach their potential by providing parent- to- parent connections, linking families to community resources and sponsoring educational and support programs.

Family Connection offices are located in Columbia, Greenville, Anderson, Spartanburg, Aiken, Charleston and Rock Hill, with Support Parents in all counties of South Carolina.

For more information about Family Connection, visit www.familyconnectionsc. org.