Barry Blue Foundation

Bedtime stories that help families facing cancer

Dr. Ky grew up hearing stories her father made up just for her. After he passed away from brain cancer, she turned them into the Barry Blue & Friends books. The author royalties from every copy go to families facing cancer.

Shop the books Donate
Barry Blue, a blue bear

Meet Barry Blue & Friends

Three rhyming picture books about being different, being brave, and being kind.

Barry Blue book cover
Book 1

Barry Blue

Barry is just like any other bear, except he is blue. Teased for being different, he runs deep into the forest, where he meets two other outcasts and finds real friendship. Inspired by the author's father.

Buy on Amazon
Gunner Green book cover
Book 2

Gunner Green

An adventurous green fox who embraces his green fur and sets out to explore the world. A story about bravery, self-belief, and spreading kindness. Inspired by the author's mother.

Buy on Amazon
Pinky Pierce book cover
Book 3

Pinky Pierce

A bright pink bird who always felt a little different. When the other birds leave her out, Pinky takes flight and meets Rebel Red, a squirrel who shows her the power of friendship and staying true to herself. Inspired by the author's best friend.

Buy on Amazon

See the whole Barry Blue & Friends series on Amazon

Dr. Ky, author of the Barry Blue books

Why we started

Barry Blue began as a bedtime story. Dr. Ky's father made up stories just for her, and she always knew they were too special to keep to herself. He passed away from brain cancer before she could publish the first one. Her mother also passed away from cancer, and Gunner Green was written with her in mind. Pinky Pierce honors her best friend, who was also lost to cancer.

In 2020, Dr. Ky founded the Barry Blue Foundation to help families carrying the financial weight of cancer treatment. Every book in the series is dedicated to the families and loved ones affected by cancer.

In loving memory of Mehrdad Sahba, Malih Sahba, and Linda Shahisaman

What your support does

Since 2020, Barry Blue book sales and community support have raised and donated more than $15,000 to six families facing cancer.

  • Direct financial reliefHelp with the bills that pile up during treatment, so families can focus on healing.
  • Adopt-A-FamilyFocused support for one family, easing the financial burden so they can focus on healing.
  • Holiday gift bags at City of HopeBarry Blue books and comfort items for children in the pediatric cancer wing.
  • Care packages and tribute booksComfort, courage, and a good story for kids and families in treatment.
Barry Blue Foundation giving event
Barry Blue Foundation giving event
Barry Blue Foundation giving event

Barry Blue, animated

Watch the short film based on the first book.

Know a family who needs help?

If you are a family facing cancer, or a social worker, nurse, or friend supporting one, tell us a little about the situation and we will be in touch.

Please do not include medical records or diagnosis details here. See our privacy policy.

Get in touch

Supporters, bookstores, schools, and organizations who would like to partner with us, we would love to hear from you.