Smilezone Foundation Unveils Latest Smilezone Space at SHN Paediatric Unit
Scarborough, ON – April 10, 2024 – Scarborough Health Network (SHN) and the Smilezone Foundation today unveiled a vibrant collection of murals adorning the General Hospital’s paediatric unit at a ribbon-cutting ceremony commemorating this new Smilezone space. Generously donated by Smilezone Foundation, with support from the Harold E. Ballard Foundation, 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 paediatric 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 paediatric 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 Scarborough Health Network
Across our three hospitals and several community-based satellite sites, Scarborough Health Network (SHN) is shaping the future of care. Our innovative programs and services are designed for the specific needs of the Scarborough community, and our medical expertise and compassionate care are accessed from well beyond our borders. We operate one of North America’s largest regional nephrology programs and regional community-based cardiovascular rehabilitation service; the designated cardiac centre for the Central East region of Ontario; and an internationally designated cardio-oncology clinic centre of excellence. As a community-affiliated teaching site for the University of Toronto; member of the Toronto Academic Science and Health Network; and partner with other universities and colleges, we are committed to helping to train the next generation of healthcare professionals. Learn more at shn.ca.
About Smilezone Foundation
Smilezone Foundation is a registered charity committed to improving the lives of children receiving medical treatment at health facilities across Canada. Established in Oakville, Ontario in 2012 when founders Adam Graves and Scott Bachly were approached to make a financial contribution to the construction of a local hospital. Through partnerships with hospitals, community centers, and other organizations, Smilezone creates accessible, fun, and therapeutic environments where children can heal and thrive. Smilezone has transformed over 395 spaces into Smilezones across Canada, benefiting over 83 communities and reaching more than 340,000 children annually. For more information, visit www.smilezone.com.For more information, please contact:
For more information:
Micki Benedetti
Smilezone Foundation
benedetti.micki@gmail.com
905.466.2575
To download this press release please click the link: Smilezone – SHN Paediatric Centre Press Release
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