HANCEVILLE, Ala. – For many young children, a trip to the doctor or hospital can bring anxiety and fear, but Wallace State Community College’s Department of Nursing Education is working to change that.
Last week, from Nov. 4-6, the department hosted its annual Let’s Pretend Hospital event. This hands-on, interactive experience welcomes more than 1,000 children from across the county to explore healthcare in a fun and friendly environment.
The event began in 2008 as a way to serve the community while giving nursing students valuable, real-world experience. Over the years, it has grown into a large-scale outreach program that helps children learn about safety, health and the important role of medical professionals.
“We hope the children leave feeling more confident and less afraid of medical visits,” said Heather Ashley, Wallace State nursing instructor. “It’s all about helping them understand that doctors, nurses, and first responders are here to help.”
This year’s event transformed the college’s health science facilities into themed hospital rooms, each designed and decorated by nursing students. Each theme represented a specific aspect of health science. Themes included Super Mario Bros. for exercise, Minecraft for health and safety, Disney’s “Frozen” for X-rays and healthy bones, Dr. Seuss for emergency room visits, The Operation Game for surgery and a Jungle Room for hospital basics.
Hanceville Fire & Rescue also made an appearance, teaching fire safety and emergency escape planning.
Ashley said the preparation involved all 500 nursing students coming together to set up, beginning with an inspiring session from Dr. Terri Poe of UAB Hospital.
Beyond benefiting the community, the event offers nursing students the opportunity to develop skills applicable in a real-world pediatric setting.
“Our students learn that healthcare isn’t just about their career — it’s about serving others. Wallace State truly loves its community in every way, and if we have the opportunity to give back, we want to,” said Ashley.
