On June 20, Loma Linda University Medical Center held a grand opening for the new park at East Campus, situated directly north of the outpatient rehabilitation center.

LLUMC constructed the park as part of its continued commitment to the healing environment. The park is a tribute to evidence-based research that indicates patients are affected by their surroundings. Patients of all ages will have the opportunity to access the park which will play a role in improving their outcomes by alleviating stress, reducing the need for pain medications, and instilling a sense of hope.

Employees were treated to food and refreshments, including Cold Stone Creamery ice cream. Willie Stewart, director of PossAbilities, served as master of ceremonies for the event and raffled off prizes for employees.

Those present learned about the park, the healing environment, and the different departments at East Campus. Booths from East Campus pharmacy, family medicine, orthotics and prosthetics, and the 1300 nursing unit were also on site, including a PossAbilities booth.

On the playground itself, a physical therapist from outpatient rehabilitation gave guided demonstrations of the 26 different play features in the park and how everything was designed for interaction between able-bodied children and disabled children, with the elements promoting children of all types to play together.

The park at East Campus was created with the rehabilitation needs of patients in mind. Each feature has significant purpose to patients as they prepare to re-enter the community. While the gardens and water sculpture bring tranquility to a person’s mind and spirit, the paths and playground area can be used to teach and assist patients with activities to build strength and skills.

The park’s pathways are textured, to include colored concrete, gravel, pavers, slate tiles and wood. The color variation, surfaces and inclines of these paths teach patients how to walk again in the community. The playground’s modules are meant to challenge pediatric patients’ understanding of vestibular motion and spatial awareness, as well as strengthen different muscle groups. The park’s healing attributes are a testament to the East Campus’s ongoing dedication to patient care.