Cardiff Illustrator's Final Work Brings Comfort to Children for World Book Day
The late Peter Lawson, a cherished Cardiff illustrator, devoted his final months to crafting a story of love and joy for local children. After receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis in 2022, the talented father of one channeled his energy into fundraising for Tŷ Hafan Children's Hospice. Peter passed away in November 2023 at age 63, following a 21-month battle with Stage 4 bowel cancer.
Launching a Legacy of Love
Now, to commemorate World Book Day, his widow Karen and daughter Dr Thea Lawson are introducing his final creation, On Big Bear's Shoulders. Thea, an A&E doctor, explained that her father spent 35 years creating magical worlds for children to escape into through his artwork.
"My dad spent 35 years creating worlds for children to escape into," Thea shared. "He illustrated characters familiar to many of our childhoods, but at home, he never treated it as a career. He believed stories gave children somewhere safe to go when real life felt confusing or frightening."
A Mission of Comfort
Peter was a firm believer that no child should ever have to face the frightening reality of a hospice without comfort. "Dad used to say that 'children' and 'hospice' were two words that should never belong in the same sentence," Thea added. "But because they do exist, he felt strongly those places should be as gentle and unfrightening as possible."
The self-taught artist enjoyed a prestigious career, illustrating iconic characters including:
- Thomas the Tank Engine
- Winnie-the-Pooh
- Fireman Sam
His own creation, Toucan 'Tecs, achieved remarkable success, becoming a CITV animation and earning a place in the Bodleian Libraries archive. Even before his illness, Peter was a dedicated fundraiser who once cycled from Cardiff to Scotland just months before his diagnosis.
A Story of Safety and Reassurance
His final book aims to provide a sense of security to children who may be feeling small or overwhelmed by their health. "He wanted it to be about safety, about being carried when you're too small to understand what's happening around you," said Thea. "In many ways On Big Bear's Shoulders is about reassurance. It tells a child: you are safe, someone is holding you, and this moment won't last forever."
Heartfelt Gratitude from Tŷ Hafan
Tracy Jones from Tŷ Hafan expressed her deep gratitude to the Lawson family for this beautiful and generous contribution. "The story Peter has written is one of reassurance and love and reminds us that even when life is really difficult, adventures can still be had and joy can still be found," she said. "And Peter's illustrations are, quite simply, gorgeous."
You can support this wonderful legacy by purchasing the book for £5.99 at Tŷ Hafan charity shops or via their website. All proceeds from the sales will go directly to Tŷ Hafan to help them continue their vital work for families in our community.
