DALLAS – David R. Hardiman, author of “Bailey’s Remarkable Plan,” will speak at about 9:45 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 21, to Aldersgate Class at Spring Valley United Methodist Church in Dallas. He will discuss trust, faith and how God performs miracles to transform or protect people.

Hardiman will sign copies of his Christian nonfiction and inspirational book at about 10:45 a.m. His autobiography shares how he endured a lifetime of illness and other challenges alone before Bailey – a shih tzu – became his best friend, service dog and hero.

“It’s a story full of struggle, prejudice and pain,” Hardiman said. “But the book also includes wonderful examples of perseverance, love and triumph.”

Hardiman of Arlington and formerly of Plano was born with a rare medical condition that eluded diagnosis for decades, and he developed post-traumatic stress disorder late in life. Bailey senses when Hardiman is about to have an attack, and she alerts him and helps him deal with the horror.

“Bailey is a gift from God to me,” Hardiman said. “Because of her, I am able to better cope with daily challenges and enjoy my life.”

Hardiman’s book cautions against judging people whose disabilities aren’t obvious. Hardiman doesn’t look like he has disabilities, but his problems are real.

The book also provides some information about laws that protect people who rely on service dogs.

“Bailey and I have been told to leave malls and other public places because people mistake her for a pet,” Hardiman said. “They aren’t familiar with the laws that protect the use of service dogs.”

Spring Valley UMC is at 7700 Spring Valley Road.

Hardcovers are available via Hardiman’s website http://www.baileysremarkableplan.com. To receive autographed copies before or after the signing event at Spring Valley UMC, send emails to baileysremarkableplan@gmail.com.

Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other online retailers also offer the book.