Meet the Creator:
Hello, my name is Rachael, and I’m the founder of Maya’s Tails Illustrations — where creativity, community, and compassion come together through the adventures of one very special dog.
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The inspiration for Maya’s Tails Illustrations began while I was volunteering with the Donate For Defib Project W-S-M. Through this incredible initiative, I had the chance to help bring communities closer by installing life-saving defibrillators, fundraising for public access AEDs, teaching CPR, and most importantly, inspiring children to get involved in life-saving education in fun and meaningful ways.
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My Background:
Alongside running Maya’s Tails Illustrations, I work as an Imaging Support Worker at Southmead Hospital (NBT). My career Within the NHS has given me a deep appreciation for the power of early intervention, education, and kindness.
With a passion for both community health and storytelling, I’ve created a platform that blends community action, health education, and imaginative illustration. My goal is to empower both children and adults to learn essential life-saving skills in gentle, heart-warming ways that stay with them.
Photo By- Ian Phillips Photography
Meet the Famous Maya!
Maya Swan
Main Character
Lucy Swan
Voice of Maya (Audio Addition)
Why Maya Inspires Us:
Maya is Lucy's beloved 4-year-old Sheepadoodle, full of joy, curiosity, and kindness. Ever since Lucy brought her home on Christmas Eve 2020, she’s been a constant source of smiles and adventures. From beach walks with fellow fluffy friends to mountain hikes in Wales, from the NC500 in Scotland to winning “Dog of the Day” in Devon—Maya is always on the move, making friends wherever she goes.
She adores donkeys, football golf (even if she won’t give the ball back!), train rides, and cosy café visits. She's even taken part in charity walks and local dog shows, proudly earning a few rosettes along the way.
But most of all, Maya inspires us through her role as the Defib Dog Mascot for Donate For Defib W-S-M Project—helping raise awareness and funds for life-saving defibrillators. Her gentle spirit and love for people make her the perfect ambassador for our stories.
At Maya’s Tails Illustrations, we bring her adventures to life—because every wag, walk, and woof reminds us how much one dog can do.