“We were taking care of an infant who was ready to be discharged but we were concerned that the mother would not be able to fulfill the necessary prescription because she did not have transportation, and she was worried about the cost. The Foundation was able to purchase the prescription from the Walgreen’s right in the hospital, deliver it to the room and the family was on their way. The mother was so very grateful that someone cared so much for her baby’s well-being and that she was able to get back to caring for her baby at home.”
The DinoSoar Garden
Our DinoSoar Garden (a clever reference to the kite in our Children’s Hospital logo!) is a favorite destination of pediatric patients and adults alike. An outside oasis inside our two hospitals, it is a place to commune with nature, take a respite from stress, and calm the mind. Originally envisioned as a pediatric healing garden in 2012, many benefactors have helped the Foundation create this unique and distinct space. Suzanne Cameron, former Foundation President, donated the original funds for the dinosaurs and space renovation in memory of her husband Kim. Over the last 10 years, The Matthew Lehrman Osteosarcoma Foundation added the beautiful Keith Goodson murals, the lights and sound, the xylophone flowers and the telescope; J. Willinger had the Michael Gitter Smile Fountain installed; The Louis Hernandez, Jr Foundation for a Brighter Future gifted the Bell Lyre, 2 harmony bells and 5 samba drums; and Aaron “Red” Waller funded the new waterfall.
During the Covid Pandemic
The Covid pandemic created new challenges for hospitalized patients in addition to the medical uncertainty. With limited visitation, no one wanted to leave their loved one’s side to get food. The Foundation has worked with many donor partners, including Chase’n Tailz, Little Smiles, and James Graver Law, over the last 2 ½ years to provide food and snacks to patients and parents at least once a week.
Our Continued Commitment
Our commitment to improving the physical comfort and well-being of our patients during their stay is offered in so many ways! From the Golf Cart shuttle to get around the hospital’s 103 acre campus, to a Santa’s Workshop in December, to activities for our Pediatric Patients throughout the year (including access to Xbox 1 gaming systems), to providing blankets, books, and prescription help, our Foundation makes an impact for so many members of our community.