Creston doctor donates “Bella Bean” to second graders

Hundreds of local second graders were gifted a book to help them deal with difficult things.

Terri Stephens-Higgins wrote “Bella Bean on Blueberry Lane: The Puppy Wonder” to help teach kids how to get through tough days. It was inspired by her own battle with cancer.

Her doctor, Dr. Karen Krogstad of Greater Regional Health, purchased enough copies of the book to donate one to every second grader in Creston, Diagonal and Mount Ayr.

Stephens-Higgins and “Dr. K” went around to second grade classes at Creston Elementary and St. Malachy Oct. 24 to share the book and its topics with the students.

Students shared what they like to do when they are having a tough day — like getting a hug or talking to a parent.

Dr. K shared how the kids shouldn’t be afraid of seeing the doctor as they are there to help. She said doctors want to make sure everyone is healthy mentally and physically.

Stephens-Higgins compared Dr. K to a doctor in the book, Dr. Doggie, who helps Bella Bean.

Together, the group did positive affirmations just like Bella Bean.

On Nov. 21, Stephens-Higgins and Dr. K will head to Mount Ayr and Diagonal to hand out books.