News
October 26, 2025
Carli Tourdot has helped countless kids prepare for surgery. So, she wrote about it
The Rochester child life specialist's book, "Today is the Day! My First Surgery," tells the story of a child before, during and after an operation.
Rochester's Carli Tourdot has dedicated her career to easing the anxieties of young patients facing a daunting experience: surgery. Drawing from her extensive experience as a child life specialist, Tourdot has penned a reassuring and informative book, "Today is the Day! My First Surgery," designed to prepare children and their families for the often-stressful journey of an operation.
For years, Tourdot has witnessed firsthand the fears and uncertainties that children face in the lead-up to surgery. She understands the importance of clear, age-appropriate explanations and emotional support in helping them navigate this challenging time. "Today is the Day! My First Surgery" aims to bridge the gap between medical procedures and a child's understanding, offering a gentle and comforting narrative that demystifies the process.
The book follows a child's experience from the initial preparations to the recovery period. It details what to expect before, during, and after the operation, addressing common concerns and anxieties in a way that young readers can easily grasp. By walking children through each step, Tourdot hopes to empower them with knowledge and reduce their fear of the unknown.
"It's about giving them a sense of control," Tourdot explained. "When kids understand what's happening and why, they feel less anxious and more able to cope."
Beyond the child's perspective, "Today is the Day! My First Surgery" also serves as a valuable resource for parents and caregivers. It provides a framework for conversations about surgery, offering guidance on how to answer difficult questions and provide emotional support. The book is intended to be read together, fostering open communication and a sense of partnership between children, families, and medical professionals.
Tourdot's book is more than just a story; it's a tool designed to make a real difference in the lives of children facing surgery. By combining her professional expertise with a heartfelt narrative, she has created a resource that promises to bring comfort, understanding, and a little bit of bravery to countless young patients and their families.
For years, Tourdot has witnessed firsthand the fears and uncertainties that children face in the lead-up to surgery. She understands the importance of clear, age-appropriate explanations and emotional support in helping them navigate this challenging time. "Today is the Day! My First Surgery" aims to bridge the gap between medical procedures and a child's understanding, offering a gentle and comforting narrative that demystifies the process.
The book follows a child's experience from the initial preparations to the recovery period. It details what to expect before, during, and after the operation, addressing common concerns and anxieties in a way that young readers can easily grasp. By walking children through each step, Tourdot hopes to empower them with knowledge and reduce their fear of the unknown.
"It's about giving them a sense of control," Tourdot explained. "When kids understand what's happening and why, they feel less anxious and more able to cope."
Beyond the child's perspective, "Today is the Day! My First Surgery" also serves as a valuable resource for parents and caregivers. It provides a framework for conversations about surgery, offering guidance on how to answer difficult questions and provide emotional support. The book is intended to be read together, fostering open communication and a sense of partnership between children, families, and medical professionals.
Tourdot's book is more than just a story; it's a tool designed to make a real difference in the lives of children facing surgery. By combining her professional expertise with a heartfelt narrative, she has created a resource that promises to bring comfort, understanding, and a little bit of bravery to countless young patients and their families.
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