Healing garden blooms into life at Mater Redland

30/Aug/2021     Health

A new healing garden is springing up at Mater Private Hospital Redland thanks to the support of donors across the Redlands.

Potted plants, raised garden beds, a shade sail and outdoor furniture have been installed on a first-floor balcony at the hospital to create a relaxed and tranquil environment for patients.

Plans for the garden were announced last year as part of the hospital’s 20-year anniversary.

The Mater Foundation appealed to the community for help in creating the garden and received an astonishing $40,000 in donations from individuals and businesses.

Nurse Unit Manager Amelia Gibbs has been leading the project which has been created to benefit patients with a non-clinical escape for them to relax in.

“The garden will be open to everyone who comes to Mater, but it will be especially helpful for our long-stay patients, including rehabilitation and palliative care patients, who often spend extended periods of time in our hospital,” Amelia said.

“The healing garden will benefit our patients as sensory spaces like these encourage physical activity and relaxation, as well as a sense of community.

“This is a wonderful example of our community supporting us so we can support them. We have only been able to create this space thanks to the amazing generosity of the Redland community.”

Mater Foundation Executive Director Andrew Thomas said it was inspiring to see so many members of the community reach out to help.

“Mater Private Hospital Redland has been serving the community for the past 20 years’ and we are so proud to be able to offer this resource for patients,” Mr Thomas said.

“We would like to thank the generosity of the Redland community for coming forward and contributing to this important project which will benefit our patients for years’ to come.”

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