A hospital can be a frightening place for some children, but thanks to a $500,000 donation from Hometown Lenders, the Huntsville Hospital Foundation (HHF) announced they will fund a full kid-friendlier renovation of the pediatric unit at the Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children.
Serving the entire North Alabama region, more than 4,000 children are admitted to Women & Children’s every year. The half-million-dollar gift is one of the largest in the Foundation’s history and will be the first major upgrade to the unit in over 25 years.
Designed by Chapman Sisson Architects, the space will include new flooring, a new nurses’ station and two refurbished playrooms, all featuring a lively under-the-sea theme.
“The goal of this renovation is to breathe new life into the pediatric department and make a space that children can truly connect with and enjoy,” said Martin Sisson, founder of Chapman Sisson Architects. “The subtle underwater theme will achieve this through intentional use of updated colors, materials, textures, and patterns that resemble those found in the ocean. The comforting blues and playful spaces will enhance the hospital experience – both for patients and their families.”
The new pediatric floor will be named for Mary Lee Taylor, the mother of Hometown Lenders founder and CEO Billy Taylor. The donation was made in her honor.
“My mom spent her life in service to others,” said Taylor. “Many times, denying her own comfort and care to ensure ‘the least of these’ and ‘the little ones’ were provided for. I cannot think of a more appropriate way to memorialize her legacy or capture her heart and spirit than to have her name forever associated with delivering the best medical care possible to children.”
HHF president Sarah Savage-Jones said the donation is transformative and proof that just one person or one company can truly impact the care of patients from across our region.
“We are deeply appreciative of Billy Taylor and the entire Hometown Lenders team recognizing the healing power of play and joy for our pediatric population. This gift honors family, and it will touch tens of thousands of families for decades to come,” Savage-Jones outlined.
The Huntsville Hospital Foundation provides more than $4 million a year in lifesaving technology and meaningful programs that improve patient lives. The Foundation raises essential funding for Huntsville Hospital, Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children, and Madison Hospital. They have committed to funding any remaining costs associated with the project.
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