Scarborough Health Network (SHN) and the Smilezone Foundation unveiled a vibrant collection of murals adorning the General Hospital’s pediatric unit at a ribbon-cutting ceremony commemorating this new Smilezone space. Generously donated by Smilezone Foundation, with support from the Harold E. Ballard Foundation and Bank of Montreal, the bright, fun Smilezone helps improve the experience for children and families when they visit the hospital.
In a collaborative effort to foster a welcoming atmosphere for young patients and their families, Smilezone has generously revamped the pediatric outpatient waiting room and hallway, baby-friendly breastfeeding room, kitchenette, day treatment waiting room, and treatment room into Smilezones. The warm and inviting spaces where children can freely express themselves, unwind, and receive support in a secure environment feature captivating murals that showcase iconic Scarborough landmarks such as the Scarborough Bluffs and Toronto Zoo.
Dr. Peter Azzopardi, Chief and Medical Director of Paediatrics at SHN, expressed gratitude to Smilezone, stating, “We understand that the hospital environment can be intimidating for our youngest patients. Smilezone’s cheerful murals enhance the pediatric patient experience, providing a warm and inviting ambiance for families receiving exceptional care from our dedicated staff.”
“Creating fun and engaging Smilezones in existing healthcare spaces that harness the uplifting power of a smile for kids and their families is Smilezone Foundation’s purpose,” said Scott Bachly, Smilezone Foundation’s Chair. “We are pleased to unveil our latest Smilezone space at SHN General Hospital’s paediatric unit. We sincerely thank the Harold E. Ballard Foundation for their ongoing support and contributions to our mission of making tough days a little brighter for kids receiving treatment.”
ABOUT SMILEZONE FOUNDATION:
Smilezone Foundation is a registered charity based in Oakville, ON, committed to putting smiles on children’s and youths’ faces. Founded by Scott Bachly and Adam Graves in 2012, the Foundation’s mission is to make tough days a little brighter for children receiving treatment in hospitals and community health centres. We do this by renovating existing rooms into fun and engaging “Smilezones” that harness the uplifting power of a smile for the children, youth, and families accessing treatment and services.
ABOUT SHN: At Scarborough Health Network (SHN), caring for you and your family is not just their job, it is their privilege. Working with their communities and government partners, patients, staff, physicians, volunteers, and donors, they’re transforming patient care and outcomes today, and charting a new course to create a healthier tomorrow.
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