Grant funding specifically focused on pediatric care is allowing Mary Free Bed at Munson Medical Center to construct a special playground for young patients.
Mary Free Bed at Munson Medical Center Director of Outpatient Services Jill Slagal, P.T., said the landscaping and play equipment installation is planned for early September at Foster Family Community Health Center.
“This will be used as a therapeutic tool for pediatric patients,” she said. “It will be physically and visually stimulating and allow them to use both upper and lower extremity muscles in the various activities that can be performed on the playground.”
Money for the playground is funded completely from the Hattie Hannah Keeney Fund through Munson Healthcare Foundations. While the playground equipment is located outside of the center, it will be fenced and not available for general public use. Plans call for it to be completed by late August. To ensure patient and staff safety, the equipment will be cleaned and patients will be socially distanced in compliance with CDC guidelines.
Assistant Manager of Outpatient Rehab Services Alisha Reichenbach, M.O.T., O.T.R.L., said therapists are excited to offer the playground for children because of its benefits for pediatric care. Staff currently use the front lawn.
“For therapy, we utilize play to help kids achieve their mobility, communication or functional goals,” she said. “This outdoor playground will be utilized by our physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists daily. Many of our therapists intend to use it during the winter months as well.”
Hattie Hannah Keeney was the daughter of Traverse City founder Perry Hannah. Upon her death at age 90 in 1950 she left $600,000 to be invested specifically for the benefit of children in the Traverse City area.
More information on services at Mary Free Bed at Munson Medical Center can be found at munsonhealthcare.org/maryfreebed.