DALLAS - David R. Hardiman, author of “Bailey’s Remarkable Plan,” will sign copies of the Christian autobiography/memoir from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at SMU Barnes & Noble in Dallas. The book shares how Hardiman endured many decades of illness and other challenges alone before Bailey – a shih tzu – became his best friend, service dog and hero.

Hardiman 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.

“The book offers a poignant story full of perseverance and love,” Hardiman said. “It’s uplifting, and it details how one intuitive dog made and continues to make such a difference in my life.”

“Bailey’s Remarkable Plan” (Brown Books Publishing Group) cautions against judging people whose disabilities aren’t obvious. Hardiman doesn’t look like he has disabilities, but his problems are real.

“Bailey’s Remarkable Plan” also shares information about laws that protect people who rely on service dogs.

“Many people are unaware of the numerous ways service dogs assist their owners, and the public needs to know the laws that protect the use of service dogs,” Hardiman said. “'Bailey’s Remarkable Plan' provides a better understanding of service dogs, and it’s entertaining.”

The store is at 3060 Mockingbird Lane.

“Bailey’s Remarkable Plan” is available at http://www.barnesandnoble.com. Hardcovers also are available by going to http://www.baileysremarkableplan.com. To receive autographed copies before or after the signing event, send emails to baileysremarkableplan@gmail.com.