Sarah Ford | February 18, 2015

Children’s National Medical Center to Create Healing Garden for Children and Their Families

Children’s National Health System is turning a 7,200-square-foot gravel rooftop into a healing outdoor space for children and their families in the hospital. This special Healing Garden will provide inspiring views of the nation’s capital, soothing natural sunlight, and energizing elements of art, music, and nature. It will give families a safe, healthy, and uplifting space of respite and healing during a challenging time. 

Why a Healing Garden?

On average, a child requiring hospitalization for treatment is at Children’s National for six days. Those with life-threatening diagnoses may stay weeks, months, or more. Even with the shortest stays, children greatly miss feeling the warmth of the sun, seeing the blue sky, and breathing fresh air. Research shows that being exposed to natural elements facilitates healing and positively influences patients’ psychological, physiological, and social well-being.

How You Can Help

To achieve our vision for the Healing Garden, Children’s National must raise $5.53 million and is seeking corporate and individual donors. You can give online now or get more information about how you can get involved, including recognition levels.

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Watch this video to see Children’s National’s vision for the Healing Garden:

Children's National Healing Garden

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