The laboratory area located within the Child and Family Ambulatory Unit at Victoria General Hospital (VGH) has been transformed into a more inviting area for the children and babies who visit it, thanks to $150,000 in funding from the Victoria General Hospital Auxiliary.
“We are so grateful for this wonderful gift to the thousands of Vancouver Island families who bring children for bloodwork and other lab procedures at VGH,” says Leah Hollins, Island Health board chair. “This renovation will create a more soothing atmosphere for children who undergo procedures, sometimes travelling here on a regular basis.”
Key to the renovations is a mural created by Victoria artist, Marcela Strasdas. The mural depicts a Vancouver Island coastal scene that children are encouraged to look at closely to identify a variety of birds, whales and wildlife while they are having their procedures. The Auxiliary has also purchased two sets of virtual reality goggles for young patients to wear as a way of distracting themselves while they are having blood taken.
“Many of the children who are cared for at Victoria General Hospital will visit the Child and Family Ambulatory Unit,” says Margot Hogg, VGH Auxiliary President. “We wanted to ensure the children and families who come here are comforted by their environment, especially if they are feeling scared or nervous about procedures such as bloodwork.”
Other updates include new furniture throughout the area, lighting, cabinetry, privacy walls, and fresh paint.