Because playing is part of healing, the Montreal Children's Hospital inaugurates its newly renovated outside play area: Parc-en-ciel
The Montreal Children's Hospital (MCH) has reopened its outdoor play area after extensive renovations and refurbishing. Spearheaded by Wienstein & Gavino's Restaurant, the project became a reality thanks to the combined support of the community and the collective efforts of corporate and individual sponsors. The Parc-en-ciel terrace provides a colourful and friendly environment where children can play outside the confines of their hospital room.
The entire area has been redesigned to suit the needs of everyone from babies to adolescents. The terrace can accommodate technology-dependent patients who must carry their machines and monitors with them, and is also parent-friendly.
The initiative is already much appreciated by patients, parents and Hospital psychoeducators. "Children are always children, even when they are patients in a hospital," states Marie-France Haineault, psychoeducator at the Children's. "They always need opportunities to play and interact with their siblings and other children, to express themselves and to remain in touch with their world outside the hospital. These are all experiences that encourage their normal development. Through games and play, children feel more comfortable in their environment, and the Parc-en-ciel gives them a chance to leave their room and literally go out and play."
"Furthermore," adds Dr. Gary Pekeles, pediatrician and Director of Medical In-patient Service, "the fresh air, sunshine and the very feeling of being outdoors do the children a world of good. It is also great for them to have a refuge where they can get away from it all."
Not only have Wienstein & Gavino's and friends already accomplished something wonderful, they undertook a two-year fundraising project to support their dream and they plan to ensure the space stays fresh and up-to-date. "We are so thankful to everyone that contributed to the project, from Wienstein & Gavino's to the partners and sponsors of the event, and also to the Child Life and School Services Department and Architectural and Planning Department at the Children's," says Ms. Louise Dery-Goldberg, MCH Foundation President. "This team effort will have a positive impact on the quality of life of our young patients."