Senior Kalyn Epperson becomes an author with her book “Hello Hospital.” Becoming an author was not many students’ ideal job while going through school, but senior Kalyn Epperson found her passion for writing through her passion for children. Epperson authored a picture book titled “Hello Hospital,” a book intended to make the hospital setting a little less scary for children. She was inspired by her work with children as a child life major. She felt as though hospitals would be easier for children if they understood different components of their potential experience. Junior Emma Commes spoke of Epperson’s book and how it sought to comfort children. “‘Hello Hospital’ helps break down into more simple words the equipment and procedures used in hospital settings for young patients,” Commes said. “When children go into a hospital, so many emotions and thoughts run through their head. In the back of the book, Kalyn included little games and puzzles for the child to do to keep their mind off of the things going on around them, while also providing them comfort.” Epperson’s book was published through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing in July 2023. Her professors provided support throughout the process of writing, editing and publication. Instructor of family and consumer sciences, Shana Jones enjoyed watching Epperson write her story. “Kalyn used her gifts and skill set to write a children’s book as they go through a difficult, stressful experience,” Jones said. “She is a motivated, hardworking student, and we could not be more proud.” Epperson never planned to write a children’s book but “Hello Hospital” quickly evolved into a passion project. “I never thought I would be an author,” Epperson said. “But next thing I knew I was coming up with ideas and putting them to paper.” Epperson wanted children to feel seen and heard during their interactions with doctors and during trips to the hospital. She wanted the book to be something both parents and teachers could use to help their children and students prepare for these experiences. “I wanted something that would make sense to kids,” Epperson said. “[I took] my knowledge of how to bring complex matters down to a child’s level and made a book about it.” Epperson’s writing was inspired by her relationships with children, but she also feltcalled to write these books. She planned to dedicate herself to children ministry as well as child education. Written by Camille Kovaleski “I never thought I would be an author but next thing I knew I was coming up with ideas and putting them to paper”. - Kalyn Epperson HELLO HARDING 157 Seniors
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