By Kate Hill
Staff Writer
Earlier this year, Cazenovia native Dr. Jay Lipoff and his wife Julie released “Super CoCo – Will You Be My Friend” — a children’s book that brings attention to inclusion and acceptance of diversity.
The book, illustrated by Ellisa Holder DiRenzo, is available for sale on Amazon and at Walmart.
Set on the island of Aruba, the story follows a rooster named Coco, who was separated from his family at a young age and forced to live alone. One day, determined to make some friends, Coco sets off on a journey to explore the island and meet its native animals.
“Although this story might be perceived as far-fetched, nature shows us repeatedly that the most unlikely bonds of friendships are formed by animals,” Lipoff said. “ . . . Julie and I wrote ‘Super Coco’ to remind children to learn from adversity, embrace differences and always allow room for new friendships.”
According to Lipoff, the story is inspired by an unlikely friendship witnessed by Lipoff and his wife on a family vacation in Aruba.
“Super Coco literally fell in my lap,” he said. “ . . . While on [vacation], my wife noticed a black rooster and a pigeon hanging out together near the big red anchor in Seroe Colorado. Day after day we watched the pair sharing time together. They seemed to stay close to a resident’s food cart with the words ‘Super Coco’ written on its side. The unlikely [friends] were given names and the story was born.”
A portion of the proceeds from the sales of the book will be donated to help rescue and rehabilitate abused and displaced animals in Aruba, and to find them new homes.
“Like many islands, Aruba has a problem with stray dogs and cats, as well as [a need for] sanctuaries for larger animals that are displaced or injured,” Lipoff said.
Lipoff grew up in Cazenovia and graduated from Chittenango High School. He went on to earn a bachelor of science degree in psychology from Syracuse University and a doctorate of chiropractics from New York Chiropractic College in Seneca Falls.
He practiced as a chiropractor in Manlius for 15 years before moving to Maryland, where he and his family currently reside.
Lipoff’s mother, Amy Sheneman, is a longtime Cazenovia resident.
“I am a very proud mother,” Sheneman said. “I truly believe that, especially at this time in our country, children need to grow up with as little hatred and fear as possible, and [with] lots of kindness and compassion. [‘Super Coco’] is a really good book for kids — and maybe some adults too. We all could use some kindness and civility these days.”
Lipoff is also the author of “Back At Your Best: Balancing the Demands of Life With the Needs of Your Body” and “Are You Ready To Be A Hero?” — a coloring book that teaches children what it takes to be a superhero in their community by doing the right thing, never giving up and making healthy choices. The book also discusses bullying, stranger danger and fire safety.
“We all come from different universes and backgrounds, and have unique powers, but when we work together we make a more exciting team and everyone contributes to our success,” Lipoff said. “Having more friends in school with various interest makes you well-rounded . . . Everyone is important and should feel special, so take a moment and acknowledge one another. It’s really pretty cool.”
The author is also the owner of Back At Your Best Chiropractic & Physical Therapy and the founder, chairman and CEO of Foundation 4 Heroes — a nonprofit organization committed to inspiring children and honoring veterans.
Founded in 2014, the organization works to bring gifts, inspiration ad smiles to hospital patients of all ages; to teach school children about discovering the superhero inside each of them; and to find ways to thank veterans for their service and sacrifice.
According to Lipoff, Foundation 4 Heroes visits thousands of families and veterans each year.
“I know how I would feel if one of my children [was] terribly sick or was injured while serving our country,” Lipoff said. “Being supportive of one another is magical . . . Seeing what families go through and knowing the uncertainty is heart-breaking. Knowing we have been able to put a smile on [the face of a child], their parent or a veteran is about as awesome as life gets. It’s what makes all the hard work easy. Giving gifts to people is the icing on the cake for me and it’s like playing Santa Claus. It’s just the right thing to do and so rewarding to your soul.”
Lipoff has been awarded the Arnold Schwarzenegger Legacy Award in recognition of his promotion of health, wellness and fitness, and for inspiring others. He also received a Hero Award from the local Boy Scouts of America for his community service. Foundation 4 Heroes received the Charlotte Hall Veteran’s Home’s Above & Beyond Award presented in recognition of outstanding service and contributions to Charlotte Hall Veterans Home.
To purchase “Super CoCo – Will You Be My Friend,” visit amazon.com.
Learn more about Foundation 4 Heroes at f4heroes.com.
