On January 23, 2012, Alberta Premier Alison Redford opened Edmonton's first emergency department dedicated to pediatric and family-centered care.
A $26.3-million renovation at Stollery Children's Hospital expanded and separated the Stollery's emergency department from the University of Alberta Hospital.
You can read more details about the opening here.
Kelley Polowy, who at nine years old has helped raise over $23,000 for the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation in just 5 years, also attended the opening, with her Mom Gloria (shown above, with Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation President Jennifer Wood at right). This is her description of her experience:
Hello, my name is Kelley Polowy. I am 9 years old. I was invited to the Stollery Pediatric Emergency grand opening! In front of the building was Dr.PatchUp. I had my picture taken with him. Then we went inside the building, I saw bright colors lining the walls. There were people everywhere to see the new facility.
I found the speeches interesting. I learned that it takes a lot of people working together to make a difference in the world. Premier Redford talked about providing families with good hospital services. It made me feel happy and feel safe.
I really liked the fish tank. There were cute fish, snails and hermit crabs. I loved the orange sitting furniture. It was colorful and looked comfortable. The large chairs are a good idea for parents and children to be able to sit together while sitting in the waiting area. I think that the extra plug ins will be well used because they provide children opportunities to play games while they are waiting. The building provided a friendly and homey feel. The equipment was top notch and provided training opportunities for doctors and nurses. I liked the Giraffe equipment because it keeps the baby warm while the doctors used other equipment to help the sick baby. The examination rooms had a lot of space, very clean, well equipped and the colorful tiles on the wall had a positive message.
This new facility will provide children and their families with their own entrance and service.
I am grateful for all the people who donated money and their time to help the Stollery Children’s Hospital. It has made a huge difference.