When I first embarked on writing and illustrating books for children, I had one simple goal: to make complex medical concepts accessible, relatable, and less intimidating for young patients and their families. My latest book, Dialysis: An Aquarium Filter for Your Blood, is a continuation of this mission—a colorful and engaging resource designed to help children and caregivers better understand dialysis and kidney health.
As a transplant surgeon, I’ve witnessed firsthand how overwhelming medical diagnoses and treatments can be, especially for children. Words like “dialysis” and “kidney failure” are not just abstract medical terms; they are life-changing realities for patients and their families. That’s why this book was created—to demystify the process of dialysis and empower children with knowledge, all through the lens of an aquarium filter.
Why an Aquarium Filter?
The analogy of an aquarium filter is one that resonates with children and adults alike. Just as a filter cleans and recirculates water to keep fish healthy, dialysis cleans and recirculates blood to keep the body healthy when the kidneys can no longer perform this essential function. By drawing this parallel, the book makes a complex medical procedure easier to grasp and even sparks curiosity.
The story introduces Amari, a friendly and relatable character who explains the journey of dialysis. Amari shares that kidneys, much like aquarium filters, clean “dirty stuff” from our blood—removing waste, extra salt, and water. For those whose kidneys aren’t working well, dialysis steps in as a lifesaving filter until a kidney transplant becomes possible.
Vivid illustrations bring this process to life, showing how blood flows into the dialysis machine, is cleaned, and returns to the body—all while likening it to the aquarium’s cycle of water filtration. These visual aids make the information both engaging and memorable for young readers.
The Power of Storytelling in Medicine
Storytelling is a powerful tool in medicine, especially when it comes to pediatric care. It bridges the gap between medical jargon and understanding, turning fear into familiarity. In Dialysis: An Aquarium Filter for Your Blood, storytelling serves to:
A Resource for Families and Providers
This book isn’t just for children undergoing dialysis; it’s also a valuable resource for their families and even healthcare providers. Families often struggle to explain medical procedures to their children in ways that make sense, and healthcare providers may not always have the time or tools to bridge this gap. Dialysis: An Aquarium Filter for Your Blood fills this need, providing a starting point for meaningful conversations and a way to alleviate some of the emotional weight of a challenging diagnosis.
For example, the book explains the types of dialysis access—like central venous catheters, arteriovenous fistulas, and arteriovenous grafts—using simple language and clear illustrations. It also includes practical advice for kids, like bringing books, art supplies, or headphones to dialysis sessions to pass the time.
Impact Beyond the Pages
Early feedback from families and medical teams has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents appreciate the simplicity and clarity of the book, while children are drawn to its colorful illustrations and relatable characters. Healthcare providers have also expressed gratitude for having a resource that complements their efforts to educate and reassure their patients.
As with my previous books, this project is backed by a commitment to evidence-based outcomes. In previous studies, we’ve shown that resources like this improve comprehension, reduce apprehension, and increase satisfaction among patients and their caregivers. While the primary goal is to support children, the ripple effects often extend to improved communication and care delivery within medical teams.
Looking Ahead
Dialysis: An Aquarium Filter for Your Blood is more than a book; it’s part of a larger mission to make healthcare education accessible, inclusive, and engaging for all. I hope this book finds its way into the hands of every child and family who needs it, and that it continues to inspire curiosity and confidence in the face of medical challenges.
If you’re interested in learning more or would like to bring this resource to your patients, visit Strength of My Scars. Together, we can transform the way we educate and empower our youngest patients.
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