Many years ago, H. B. Pierre Simon Jr. mentored a child named Peyton who had Down syndrome, and remembers him as the most beautiful, happy, and lively child he'd ever known. With all of Peyton's challenges, he worked hard to push through them, and even though his father wasn't in his life, he never felt sorry for himself. He and Simon became really close, and Peyton looked to Simon as a father figure, a friend, and someone that cared for him. Ten years ago, Simon told Peyton's mother that he would write a book in Peyton's honor-Down Thru Love brings that promise to fruition.
Simon also has a son, Elijah Pierre Simon who inspired portions of the book. He notes, "Elijah's young innocent view of life encouraged me to finish this book which was started nearly 10 years ago. I always wanted to have a project that last forever with my son, and now I do. We have Down Thru Love."
In many ways, Simon identifies with the main character. In a previous book he authored, he noted, "There are times in life where life throws us challenges, and seemingly impossible obstacles. However if we face them head on, with no promise of victory, that will be the day we start down our paths of purpose. That'll be the day we live forever."
