Professor Meyer writes children’s book to help families

Professor Kristin Meyer has her hands full working with students studying kinesiology at Cornell College, but what you might not know is that she’s also publishing a children’s book.

The book is called “The Adventures of Team Super Tubie.” The idea to write it came about three years ago after her son, Camden, was placed with a feeding tube following his diagnosis of Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

“In searching for resources for him we found that there were few books for children about feeding tubes, and none that depicted these kids as the true superheroes that they are,” said Meyer, a 2001 Cornell College graduate. “Our family wanted to write this book to help other kids with feeding tubes to see themselves as the brave superheroes that they are, and to feel proud that the thing that makes them different, is also where they can find their greatest strength.”

The initial plans started unfolding on scratch notes pads while she was at home with her four kids. She also says this project fits in very closely with the work she does at Cornell.

“As a professor in the Kinesiology Department, I teach courses in physiology, anatomy, and nutrition,” Meyer said. “I have many student advisees who are interested in health professions, community service, and education—all of which are related to this project. In addition, I have a personal interest in issues of diversity and inclusion as I serve on the college’s Committee on Diversity.  There was a great deal of thought put into this book regarding ways to encourage messages of inclusion, acceptance, and empowerment for different genders, races, and special medical needs.” 

Meyer has launched a Kickstarter campaign as a method of presales for the book. As part of this effort, she is also accepting pledges that will help her donate books to the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital in Iowa City, which will get distributed to families of children with new feeding tubes.

Meyer hopes this book will touch the lives of other families facing what can feel like a scary situation.

“I want all kids, especially those with special medical needs, to identify with the characters in the book and feel empowered and special in their own lives,” Meyer said. “The book depicts kids of different genders, different races, and with different types of feeding tubes. They are all superheroes, all special, and all very brave.”