A longtime local television personality and nonprofit leader is celebrating a personal milestone: publishing her very first book.

Erica Bivens, a news anchor and current public relations and philanthropy director at BraveHearts Equine Center, recently announced that she has written and self-published a children’s book inspired by two rescue horses who left a lasting impact on her.

Bivens said writing a book has been on her “life bucket list” for years, and she described the moment of finishing the project as both emotional and deeply rewarding.

The story is based on Leo and Lou, a bonded pair of horses who arrived at the rescue in extremely poor condition. According to Bivens, the horses were rehabilitated through patience, kindness and consistent care from the team at the nonprofit.

Over time, the pair transformed from neglected animals into healthy horses, an experience that inspired Bivens to tell their story for younger readers.

Although written as a children’s book, Bivens says the message goes beyond its intended audience.

The story focuses on themes of resilience, healing and friendship, highlighting how support and compassion can help individuals recover from difficult circumstances.

Before joining the equine rescue organization, Bivens spent roughly 15 years working in television news, including time as an anchor and reporter at WTVQ‑TV (ABC 36). In her current role at BraveHearts, she helps lead community outreach, fundraising and public awareness efforts for the nonprofit’s rescue and rehabilitation programs.

The organization rescues horses from abuse, neglect and potential slaughter, rehabilitating them and helping them find new homes. BraveHearts also works with community programs that support veterans, first responders and others through equine-assisted interactions.

Bivens said another meaningful aspect of the book project is its charitable purpose. Proceeds from the book will go directly back to supporting the nonprofit and the horses that inspire stories like Leo and Lou’s.

Release dates for the book have not yet been announced, but Bivens said more details will be shared soon.