Valley Children’s Launches Innovative Book to Empower Kids with Epilepsy

MADERA, CA – Valley Children’s Healthcare, in partnership with Authorable, is proud to announce the launch of a new book aimed at empowering children with epilepsy and fostering understanding of the medical condition in classrooms. 

“Room For Friends: A Story to Empower Kids with Epilepsy,” written by local author Susie A. Harder, invites children with epilepsy to step into the story as the main character, guiding their classmates through an escape room-themed adventure. The book also includes personalized sections, allowing kids to share their own words and experiences throughout the storyline. 

“This book is designed to spark safe, open conversations with these kids’ classmates about epilepsy - reducing stigma and encouraging empathy,” explained Caitlin Bernard Vincent, Valley Children’s Epilepsy Program manager. “They want others to understand them, so they don’t feel so alone but often don’t know what to say or how to say it, especially when it comes to their peers.” 

This project was made possible through a partnership with Authorable, an after-school school enrichment program developed to inspire students in writing and book publishing. As a result, Valley Children’s is the first hospital in the country to debut this “By Kids, For Kids” storytelling model. 

This is the first book in the “Room for Friends” series, marking the beginning of something special. The goal is to share more stories from the perspectives of children, highlighting their unique experiences coping with various medical conditions. This ongoing series aims to encourage understanding through inclusive learning environments, support peer-to-peer connections, and promote a strong sense of community overall.